Mae Malai Thai House of Noodles
This is my favorite new Thai place to pop up in Thai Town in the last few years. There are lots of long-running spots that still crush but this place has climbed my rankings very quickly despite only opening a few months back. Mae Malai used to be a noodle stand in front of Silom Supermarket but they got popular quickly and this brick-and-mortar version is our reward.
This is a family-run spot with Malai Data at the helm. You’ll see her flying around the restaurant, taking orders, dropping off dishes, and managing the waitlist. That wait list is manageable for now but I don’t see that lasting. I’ve tried almost everything on the menu at this point so let’s talk about what to order.
This place was on my hit list because I heard they had one of the best boat noodles in town. I have confirmed that. Get a Boat Noodle (medium heat level for me) as an appetizer. That broth is perfect. It’s a small portion and packed with flavor. I also like those Anusawari Egg Rolls too. They’re stuffed with ground chicken, basil, rice noodles, and garlic. Their Pad Zee Ew is my favorite rendition in the city. Get the Chili Holy Basil over rice. Get the Thai Omelette. Then finally, get the Chinese Broccoli with Crispy Pork. I went to this spot twice in one week because I’m currently obsessed.
Ye Rustic Inn
Six minutes east on Franklin Avenue is my old neighborhood spot. Not being able to walk to Ye Rustic anymore is the only thing I miss about living in Los Feliz. They’re one of the best providers of Buffalo wings in the city. They have a bigger menu but I’m not going to pretend that I’ve ordered anything else besides the wings. I think I’m writing this mostly so that Ye Rustic Inn can finally be added to the Ford Food Google Map and because the wings alone are worth this post. Sometimes you don’t need to say too much beyond, “Go try these wings.”
Get the Buffalo Wings – either medium or hot level – and either “crispy” or “extra crispy” – Depending on preference. I love that the crispiness level is a standard part of the ordering process. (If you need to add some sides, I do think they have good onion rings and fries.) They have a standard selection of alcohol and a fun – but very divey – vibe. Go get the wings.
Google Maps Links:
Mae Malai Thai House of Noodles
That’s all. See you next week!