Pok Pok Phat Thai

Nom nom. I don’t get what’s up with the low reviews here. What I got was some of the realest delicious street style Thai noodles. I had the Kuaytiaw Khua Kai and the noodles were the best texture — crispy and crunchy in parts and soft in others. They have condiments on the table just like they would in Thailand, so you can make your dish spicy, sweet, salty or sour.
I’m generally afraid of Phat Thai (usually too sweet or soupy), but I may just come back to try it here.

Disappointed is the best word to describe this place. I got the pad thai and it was awful. The noodles were rock hard and the dish was very salty and greasy. They really don’t have a wide variety in their menu so it baffles me that they are screwing up on the few items that they do serve.
Don’t expect much of the line because no one really goes here anymore. Save yourself and disappointment and go to chego a few stores down.

Very good!
They had a special which was some sort of meat on rice with a fried egg on top.
I didn’t catch the name, but I loved it.
I also loved their Thai ice tea.
There’s also a really great Vietnamese coffee shop across the corridor, so you could have a great cup of coffee for dessert after.
Reasonably priced too!

This restaurant is just a little storefront across the mall from the trendy Chego. The first time I tried it I wasn’t impressed, but saw potential in the flavor profiles. I’m glad I gave this place a second chance. The first time the pork was dry with the Phat Si Ew. But I tried again today, less than a week later. The second time the pork was perfect with the Khao Phat Muu! We also tried the Phat Thai. It was fantastic. And the crunchy shrimp chips! Delicious!
I will be back for a third meal.

I’m not going to write an extraneous review, but rant like an a hole. It was bad. Overpriced tourist attraction with front end to match. Make the place fun, have an Elvis impersonator… or have drag performers, a reason other than food to visit.
Food was terrible… disappointing and the poor attitude of the staff, they must be pissed about something in the kitchen. Instead of eating at Chengo, decided to try out Andy’s place. I enjoy thia food, worked with a thai family for a decade. Flavor profile of thai food is bright, bold, fresh, and pungent at times;fish sauce. Pok pok was some DOA, over priced stuff, and sad tasting… no flavors, not even salt. Go to Thai town, east Hollywood, Pi Yai is a good place to start; leave the hype and enjoy a meal.

So after my semi-​painful experience at the other Pok Pok, I was really trying to be open minded and try try again.
This time we ventured to the noodle place. Again, I was met with this weird pretensho attitude, «are you familiar with this cuisine?» Like PAD SEE EW. Are you familiar? Ever heard of … PAD THAI? Well, let me share with you that when it comes on a BANANA LEAF it is NEW, REVOLUTIONARY, and pre-​designated for EXCESSIVE PRAISE.
Noodles that took forever, cooked by a midwesterner, served in a half portion of what you would get anywhere else, but for $ 4 more.
Come on. Go to Detroit or some other quickly gentrifying place where your tricks will work!

Waited almost 40 MINUTES for my phat thai! On a weekday night? Unacceptable.
On top of that it was average tasting and a bit dried out, with only tiny shrimp. Totally not worth $ 12. My friends who ordered from nearby Chego had finished their (much better and cheaper) rice bowls before my dish even came out.
Sorry Pok Pok. I’m sticking to many of my favorites in Thai Town.

Pok Pok Phat Thai is the first L.A. outpost of Portland’s famous Pok Pok, a sort of abbreviated teaser of the full Pok Pok, which opened less than two months ago a few blocks away from this one. It serves up a limited menu focused around pad thai, out of a little storefront in the same yipster Chinatown plaza as Chego, Scoops, et al.
I went for an early Saturday lunch with my husband and our neighbors, right when the place opened at 11:30. We were the first customers, so if there’s any hassle associated with this place, I don’t know about it. It was a cute spot, brightly colored and as welcoming as a restaurant without tables can be. We ordered at the counter from a friendly cashier, and took our food to eat in the communal tables outside, shared with the plaza’s other restaurants.
We ordered a huge spread for three people, my picky husband having pre-​gamed with croissants. Family style was definitely the way to go, and I feel like we covered the greatest hits. We got a couple snacks to start us off, and these were great – some crispy, savory shrimp chips and a quarter-​pound bag of house-​roasted red peanuts tossed with lime leaf, garlic, chilies, and sea salt. Then we got four entrees to crowd the table. There were a few options for phat thai, and we ordered the phat tai ruam, which was the regular with a combination of prawns and ground pork on top. The noodles were tasty, cooked in rendered pork fat with tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar, mixed with peanuts, dried tofu, dried shrimp, preserved radish, egg, garlic chives, and bean sprouts (I guess this is what pad thai is – I’d never stopped to parse it out, so thanks, Pok Pok menu). As pad thai goes, though, I didn’t find this particularly memorable. The best thing was actually the special, muu kaphrao khai dao, a dish of minced pork and long beans stir-​fried with holy basil, white onion, black soy, fish sauce, garlic, and Thai chilies, served with rice and a crispy fried egg. The pork was very flavorful, and it tasted great with the rice and broken-​up egg. The kuaytiaw khua pet was decent, a plate of wide rice noodles stir-​fried in rendered pork fat with duck, cuttlefish, egg, and green onions, served on chopped lettuce. I enjoyed the chewy bits of cuttlefish, and the noodles took well to the fat. The only thing I didn’t like was the hoi thawt, a crispy broken crêpe with steamed mussels, eggs, garlic chives, and bean sprouts, served with «Thai Sri Racha sauce.» This was apparently a version of a night market street vendor specialty, but I can’t comment on how it measured up against the real thing. I just didn’t love the mussels, which had a chemical funk, and the bland shards of crêpe didn’t do much for me either.
I washed my meal down with Thai iced tea, but my neighbors went for the Thai iced tea with lime and the drinking vinegar, which were definitely more interesting (but maybe not as delicious). I’d never had drinking vinegar before, and it was pretty good – I could see acquiring that taste. It had a nice, bracing zip to it, without being overly harsh.
I guess I wasn’t super impressed with Pok Pok overall. Nothing knocked my socks off, and I’m having a hard time remembering even the things I enjoyed. I live closer to Thai Town than to Chinatown, and there’s a definite gap in quality – and, actually, price, but in the wrong direction – between this place and my regular joints. I don’t think I’ll be going too often, but I do see the appeal, and I still want to try the larger Pok Pok when I get the chance.

I don’t love Thai food, as a general rule, and only have it every once in awhile. But here at Pok Pok, I ate some of the best in my life.
I was initially inspired to try Pok Pok not only because of it’s reputation, but also because I saw Chef Andy Ricker on Parts Unknown and found him to be really interesting.
Anyway, I ordered the Phat Sii Ew with chicken and thought it was really delicious.
The best, thing, though was actually the vinegar-​based sodas they have. I got one flavored with pomegranate syrup and it was a really interesting, extremely refreshing drink. I loved it!

People have mixed feelings about this place, and I fall on the side of «meh».
Pok Pok Phat Thai caught my eye when they were first starting to open this place; mostly because of the open/​close sign saying, «Open» or «Nope». The other reason was the person who was behind opening this place; I asked a foodie friend of mine and he said he has heard of Andy Ricker, but not really gone too in-​depth of what his specializes were.
Because I had a random ditch date at work, instead of heading home and trying to figure out what ingredient I had left to make a «everything but the kitchen sink» fried rice, I remembered that Pok Pok was only opened during lunch time, and it would be wise to go today. The problem with that was, when I got there, it was pretty empty. Mind you, this was a Friday afternoon, maybe around 2 PM?
Not knowing what I want, I just opted for the special of the day, which was their pork omelette. Didn’t take too long to get my order, maybe 6 minutes, because two K-​Pop songs played while I waited, and usually K-​Pop songs range around the three-​minute mark.
I got home and saw the beautiful presentation that was worthy of a quick Instagram photo opt. However, looks can be deceiving; the food itself wasn’t what I would hope for, especially from someone who specializes in Thai cuisine. The pork omelette looks like something I could have easily thrown together at home, and the flavor was missing. Because I grew up in a household that usually caters to the Vietnamese palette, I threw in some fish sauce onto the omelette, and found that the missing umami. Also, there was a small container of sriracha sauce included in my to-​go box, but I would have been happier if it was a homemade sambal sauce. (To be honest, I’m not a fan of sriracha, and would prefer sambal.)
Maybe it was my own fault for not listening to the server when they mentioned that condiments were to my left and I should have grabbed something.
Overall, if one wants Thai food, I would suggest to make the drive to Thai Town.

Been to Pok Pok a few times over the year and have to say, that these guys have gotten over their initial rough patch. Between all the early hype volume on and the challenges of training a new kitchen, there were definitely some mixed experiences. Over time now that things have stabilized, I can definitely see where Chef Andy Ricker is going with this. It was all a bit muddled and rushed early on, but now you are able to see little details like the intense wok heat needed to crisp up the noodles and the balance of the savory, sweet, and heat coming into better harmony.
You definitely get a sense of his homage to Thai cuisine and attempts to introduce us to dishes we don’t typically see at Thai restaurants. You’re not going to find your tom yum soup, your angel wings, nor any curry type dishes. You’ll find a lot more northern thai influence and the type of dish one would probably actually find along the street markets there. Subtle hints like the instance on not using chicken for some of the dishes shows his attention and attempt to keep it as authentic as possible.
All in all, it’s a very solid 4*. Do understand this outlet is meant as a fast casual affair with a tight menu of noodles and rice based dishes. A few interesting drink options, but not booze or any fancy wait staff. Think of it as a slightly elevated takeout experience, or as a preview of what the full fledged restaurant opening later this year might bring.

Awesome little Thai restaurant in the arcade area of Chinatown. If you enter from the Broadway side of the shopping arcade, then you will have to cross most of it to get to the restaurant. Restaurant is a loose term since they only have counter seating inside the actual storefront but there are lots of tables in the outside arcade area.
I had the Kuaytiaw and it was delicious. Great flavors and the food was presented on a banana leaf. The server either forgot to put in my order or the kitchen lost the order bill. Either way I had to wait a while to get my food, but it was nice they comped my plate for being so delayed. It probably helped that my friend bought their cookbook, which looked really colorful and pretty.
Would go back again. Just check your number and if higher numbers start to get called before yours better check with the server.

I think this place deserves more then the 3.5 stars it currently has, and here is why:
Food:
The menu is simple and not overwhelming. The pad thai with shrimp and ground pork is by far the most authetinc pad thai I’ve tasted in LA. It is almost exactly the same as the pad thai I had in Bangkok. This pad thai has chives in it as well as dried shrimp (good salty flavor). The best thing here is that they give you condiments to allow you to flavor your dish as you want. I personally think too many places make their pad thai too sweet (likely because a lot of places add ketchup, yuck). If you want it more spicy you can add more fish sauce with chilis/​dried chili. If you want more sweet you can add sugar. The noodles they use are very fresh and are perfectly cooked so that it doesn’t fall apart when you pick it up. The shrimp is very fresh tasting and has a good bite. Prices are reasonable, more expensive the thai town however I think the quality of ingredients is better.
I also recommend the mussel omelette dish, the mussels are fresh and there’s a good crispy/​chewy texture to the dish.
Ambience/​Service:
No places to sit inside however lots of seating in tables right outside. I usually call my order in and they get it right every time. Fast cooking, friendly staff.
Tips:
— Parking is in the Far East Plaza garage underground (entrances are on broadway or hill), parking is validated for 30min-​1 hour with purchase
— Enjoy dinner then go right across for scoops ice cream :)
— Good place to meet with friends as there is easy parking, lots of tables, and if someone doesn’t want thai they can eat at Chego (fusion rice bowls), or the many plethora of chinese/​vietnamese restaurants in the same plaza

Lunch with my girlfriend at Chinatown.
Ordered kuaytiaw, hoi thawt and khai jiaw lat khao. We ordered 3 dishes because my friend said their portion was small. She didn’t lie!
Kuaytiaw khua kung ($ 11.00): rice noodles stir-​fried in rendered pork fat with prawn, cuttlefish, egg and green onions, served on chopped lettuce. It was just okay, but good enough for lunch. The prawn was so tiny… more like a shrimp than a prawn.
Hoi thawt ($ 9.00): crispy broken crêpe with steamed fresh mussells, eggs, garlic, chives and bean sprouts, served with Thai Sriracha sauce. It was similar to Vietnamese banh xeo, but the taste wasn’t there. The mussels were so tiny :(just like the shrimps… I meant PRAWNS
Daily special khai jiaw lat khao ($ 8.50): Thai style pork omelette served with rice. It was my favorite dish from all three dishes because it was kinda good.
The food is expensive because the portions are small. I prefer Chego over Pok Pok Phat Thai; Chego is much more flavorful… sorry :(
Friendly service! Outdoor seatings only.
QUICK TIP: 30 MINUTES PARKING VALIDATION FOR EACH 30 MINUTES.
3 stars!
Pok Pok Phat Thai is almost yummylicious!

I was kind of excited to try this new place out, although it’s oddly located in Chinatown. The place is nicely decorated and the worker is super nice! However, DON’T ever order the pad see ew if you were starving like me. The taste is good I will admit, but the portion size had me crying. I was so disappointed. I paid nearly $ 10 for the plate, but I felt like I was given a $ 5 plate. Not worth. I don’t know how the other dishes look, but pad see ew is definitely a no bueno. Unless you don’t mind paying $ 10 for half an empty plate, go for it!
If they added more, I would not be complaining.

I really enjoy eating Thai food and I have been wanting to try this place. Finally came here with my boyfriend and a group of his friends during Chinatown Summer Nights. The service was okay… You just order at the register and wait for them to call your number. There are limited stools to sit down around the perimeter of the small restaurant. There are picnic tables right outside which is a cute and fun atmosphere to hang out and eat.
We ordered the Kuaytiaw Khua with duck and Phat sii ew with pork. I was not impressed with the food. The only thing I can say is that the Kuaytiaw Khua is unique and I liked the nice crisp to the noodles. The duck was a bit on the dry side. The Pad sii ew was average tasting. The condiments like fish sauce with chilis did help enhance the flavors, so be sure to add those to your liking.
Overall, the food was average and a bit overpriced. Not likely to return unless friends are insisting. I’m glad I gave this place a try though.

It’s only winning quality is its cute name. Pok Pok! Hahaa makes me chuckle just saying it in my head.
The service wasn’t the best. We asked if any of the menus could be made as vegetarian options, aside from the ones listed and the guy literally said «no, just the ones that say vegetarian next to it.» We said ok and then asked about the special on the board which obvi said pork omelette so we just wanted to see if they could leave it out or if for some reason it was already pre-​made. He rolled his eyes and asked the guy in the kitchen that said of course he can. O_​_​o
Then I gave the guy up front my card and he didnt give us a receipt, ask to sign or even tell us how we should know when our order was ready so we figured we’d just have to watch when the ppl in front of us picked up our order for an estimated time… Found out later he forgot to have us sign which is why we didn’t get a receipt or a number. What is wrong w that kid?!
Food came out in under 10 min tasting less like Thai street food and more like Thai fast food. Tables out front had chilis and some other condiments but still left us w a lackluster flavor. Ehh. Next time we’re goin to chego, despite the crazy loud music that deterred us the first time: P
This plaza was somewhat strange though. Tons of kids when we went on a thurs evening. Like tons. I didn’t even realize parents let their kids run around downtown on their own after 7 hah

I paid $ 10 for that? Phat si ew with pork. It was Ew. Why are the noodles cut so short. No wok hei (effect on food cooked in a very hot wok) whatsoever. Flacid noodles and sliced pig. Too much, way too much, undercooked gai lan (Chinese broccoli). Not enough noodles (the cheapest component).
Description on menu boasts «locally made noodles.» We are Los Angeles. We are blessed with completely easily accessible freshly made fun (the rice flour noodles, duh). No need to try to show off something that everyone can get at any Asian market in the greater Los Angeles area. You’re not in Portland anymore.

With all the initial hype, long lines, and glowing reviews on here. Did Lotus of Siam 213 open up?
Forgettable /​bland /​greasy pad thai. Just head over to Sticky Rice in GCM if you want something this aspires to be.
Don’t look into the kitchen area while you wait — butt crack shots can’t be unseen.

I just ran out of the house tonight after I saw James Beard Award winner, chef Andy Ricker, post on Instagram from his restaurant, Pok Pok Phat That in Chinatown. Yes, 35 minutes just for him to cook for him and so I can meet him.
I’ve been a fan of his cooking since tasting his papaya salad at their Portland location. The best papaya salad dish I have ever had!
I have seen the lukewarm reviews here on Unilocal so I’ve been hesitating to visit until tonight when I saw that he was at his restaurant.
I ordered the Kuaytiaw Khua Kai/​Kung/​Pet with duck tonight which is «Bangkok Chinatown specialty.» The dish was a wonderful mix of textures and flavors. Soft, crisp, sweet and salty. For those that complain of bland food, there is a sign in the restaurant that says to use the condiments to season to your liking just like in Thailand.
I also ordered the red peanuts to go, pad sii ew for lunch tomorrow, limeade, and thai basil drinking vinegar.
Chef Andy Ricker has mastered the art of Thai cooking keeping as authentic as possible as the food he eats while living in Thailand and visiting.
I’m still a huge fan and can’t wait until my return trip to eat here again! I really do hope that the cooking will be as good without the chef in the kitchen.
Highly, highly recommended!!! I would eat here often if I lived close by!
Note: They are now open on weekends until 10 pm.