Want to know my new favorite Thai food spot in LA? Welcome to La Ong. Tucked away a little bit to the side of Rodeo Drive, it’s modern, hip, but also outstanding in the authenticity of the food (which can sometimes be questionable around touristy parts of LA like Beverly Hills). The restaurant is apparently named after the chef’s grandmother, and I definitely believe it. I crave this place every time I find myself in the area, and I order several dishes for me to box up and take home with me, because I just haven’t found another restaurant like this.

First of all, this restaurant has the best Thai spring rolls I’ve ever had. Ok ok, I know the spring rolls here may not be the most traditional, but the combination of crisp fresh veggies, tofu, and this drool-worthy peanut sauce are to die for. You HAVE to get this dish! I actually buy two whenever I go and box the second one to go, because it is THAT good.

Next is my absolute FAVORITE dish here: the crab fried rice! There is SO MUCH crab and it has the perfect amount of crab and fluffy egg mixed in. Make sure to sprinkle a little bit of lime over it to give it that little bit of acidity to round it out. Such a simple dish, but so masterfully done. You can’t miss this dish!

I also have had the khao soi here as well and it is also incredibly. Khao soi is a curry noodle soup that is coconut-based and originated from Northern Thailand. There are actually several versions of this spicy, complex noodle dish, but this coconut-based version with egg and rice flour noodles is likely the most common one you’ll find in Southern California. The crispy noodles were crunchy to perfect. The soup was spicy in a very satisfying and complex way. The beef cuts were also soft and flavorful.

Last but not least, another favorite is the crispy pork belly with watercress. This is actually an item that is only found on their lunch menu, however if you ask very nicely, they may be able to make it for you for dinner! The pork belly was crisped to perfection and the watercress is a great balance for the saltiness of the meal. Eat this with a bowl of rice and you’ll be sure to be satisfied.

La Ong is definitely a jewel that is not to be missed in this neighborhood! It’s beautiful, has great service, and some of the most incredibly Thai food I have had in Southern California (and that is saying a lot)! This is a great place with family, a small group of friends, and also a great date spot with a partner. Finished shopping on Rodeo Drive and starting to get hangry? No fear, La Ong is only a few minutes walking distance away. Please give it a try and let me know what you think! I’m sure you’ll be wanting to go back for more.

La Ong
9632 S. Santa Monica Blvd.
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
https://www.laongbh.com/
@laong.restaurant

*great for couples, small groups of friends, and family