The 2026 Thai scene in Novato is thriving. And we’ve done the delicious legwork. But if there’s one thing we’ve confirmed, it’s that everyone craves authentic, vibrant flavors. And we mean everyone. So whether you’re a pad thai purist or your spice tolerance has at one point been questioned—hey there, cautious diners—this curated list is your definitive guide to the best.
TuTu Lounge
$$ | (415) 492-1530 | WEBSITE
This Thai-influenced spot in Novato serves a standout breakfast and brunch menu which you can enjoy daily from 7am to 2pm. The menu includes standout dishes like the Spicy Tom Yum Omelet for $14.95, or the Marin Eggs Benedict for $16.50. The rustic modern industrial space feels both cozy and contemporary, with warm lighting and comfortable seating that makes it perfect for a leisurely morning meal.
Their homemade potatoes are creamy with a hint of spice for $4.50, and the home fries are extra crispy for the same price. Unique drinks like the Strawberry Matcha and Butterfly Lychee are $5.75 each, and the Thai tea pancakes are a must-try at $12.95. The friendly staff with big smiles makes the experience even more enjoyable, and the varied menu ensures there’s something delectable for everyone.
Bay Thai Cuisine
$ | (415) 458-8845 | WEBSITE
This spot in Novato has a cash-only policy, which means you’ll need to bring bills for their delicious Thai dishes. It’s available daily, from opening to closing. The Tom Ka soup is a standout, and other favorites include curry soups, eggplant, chicken satay, Thai basil fried rice, and drunken noodles. While the Pad Thai can be inconsistent, it’s still a decent choice. The restaurant is small with limited seating, making take-out a popular option.
Prices are reasonable, with most entrees around $15 to $20, and the service is always friendly and welcoming. The curries are particularly excellent, and it’s worth a visit for anyone seeking authentic Thai food in the area. Customers rave about the great service, attentive staff, and amazing dishes, with generous portions that are consistently delicious. Dishes like red curry chicken with jasmine rice and pad phed are praised for being perfectly seasoned and served hot.
Though the ambiance is a bit cramped, the quality and flavor of the food make it worthwhile. Just remember to have cash on hand. Overall, Bay Thai Cuisine offers quick, quality Thai food and is a reliable choice for authentic flavors.
Thai Smile
$ | (415) 454-2626 | WEBSITE
The mains at this Thai restaurant in Novato are usually around the $18 mark. Which is what makes their $18 lunch and dinner special feel like such a bargain. Choose between two courses for $18, or add on a dessert for $22.
My Thai Restaurant
$$ | (415) 456-4455 | WEBSITE
Until the 18th January, this Thai spot will be continuing their winter specials. The specials apply in their Novato location, and you have to mention the promotion to your server when ordering.
Chao Praya
$ | (415) 892-9303 | WEBSITE
Authentic Thai flavors, generous portions, and wallet-friendly prices are what you can expect at this Novato gem. The menu is extensive and offers excellent value, featuring standout dishes like the perfectly fried Pampano fish and the rich beef pho with sliced beef and meatballs. Appetizers like the Thai samosas and namsod are flavorful starters, while the Tom Kha Kai soup and Chao Praya noodles deliver satisfying depth.
The green curry in the noodles is robust, though some might wish for more vegetables. Servers are friendly and attentive, even bringing out a variety of spices for guests to customize their meals. With its elegant Thai decor and reasonable prices, Chao Praya makes for a consistently impressive dining choice in Novato.
My Thai Fairfax
$$ | (415) 453-5967 | WEBSITE
Popular Thai spot My Thai Fairfax now offers their signature lunch special every weekday from 11am to 3pm, where you can get two courses for $16 or three for $20. Plus, they’ve extended their evening hours until 10pm on weekends, serving their complete dinner menu with wine pairings starting at just $28 per person.
Calgang Thai Eatery
$ | (415) 499-3501 | WEBSITE
This casual Thai eatery in Novato has things like red chicken curry and duck with pad keemao on the menu, and for lunch on weekdays, you can get their combo at an affordable price of $15.
The 35 Thai Kitchen
$ | (707) 774-6045 | WEBSITE
This Thai kitchen has extended its generous portions to takeout orders throughout the week at its Novato location. The restaurant offers amazing value with big portions for the price, making it a great spot for authentic flavors. The menu features dishes like BBQ chicken and wings, crab Rangoon, Chicken Larb salad, and yellow curry, all packed with flavor without being too oily.
The cozy atmosphere includes a clean, natural vibe with a nice outdoor patio offering a beautiful view, though ongoing renovations with scaffolding around the building may obscure it slightly. The staff is extremely friendly, and customers often mention how quickly their takeout orders are ready, sometimes in less than 10 minutes. Overall, The 35 Thai Kitchen is a place worth visiting for its good prices and delicious food, despite the temporary renovations.
Royal Thai Restaurant
$$ | (415) 485-1074 | WEBSITE
Thai favorite, Royal Thai Restaurant, is offering takeout and delivery through the end of January. That means you can enjoy their flavorful dishes with convenient options from 11am to 9pm daily.
The Baan Thai Cuisine
$$ | (415) 457-9470 | WEBSITE
If you visit this charming Thai spot during the holiday season, you can enjoy the festive Christmas decorations. That means holiday cheer with that excellent Tom Kha with chicken. FYI, that’s generous portion, at all times (date night, family gathering, or solo meal).
Chan Chao Thai Restaurant
$$ | (707) 687-5507 | WEBSITE
You can enjoy 20% off all menu items ordered between 5pm and 7pm on Mondays through Thursdays, at the Novato location, through the end of February. The perfect green curry and burn-your-tongue papaya salad transport you straight to Thailand, while the Tom Kha soup and pumpkin curry remain standout favorites. Crispy shrimp rolls and well-seasoned dishes round out the authentic experience, served with polite, efficient attention in a kid-friendly setting.
Though an occasional dish arrives cooler than ideal, the fresh, layered flavors keep customers returning eagerly to try more—the Pad Thai, curries, and Tom Yum soup await.
Thai Food Express -San Rafael
$$ | (415) 300-3345 | WEBSITE
The lunch special, featuring dishes like Garlic Ginger with Chicken and Shrimp, and fresh spring rolls is priced at $15 instead of $20 per person if you dine between 11:30am and 1:30pm, Tuesdays through Fridays.
Laos Kitchen
$$ | (415) 456-4490 | WEBSITE
Two dishes of pad see ew and coconut curry soup can be yours for under $15 at this bustling Thai spot in Novato. The combo specials run all day, and if you’re willing to spend a bit more you can get three courses and a fantastic chai ice tea for $24.50.
Lemongrass Thai Cuisine
$ | (707) 789-9777 | WEBSITE
The addition of pineapple in the Massaman curry at this Thai specialist spot means that every bite delivers a wonderful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the peanut flavor. No small print, just generous portions and happiness. Also available for takeout with the same fresh quality as dining in.
My Thai II
$$ | (415) 895-5080 | WEBSITE
My Thai II is offering a special lunch promotion, from Mondays to Fridays throughout January. They’ve also expanded their happy hour menu meaning you can enjoy discounted appetizers from 4pm onwards every weekday, and from 11.30am on Saturdays.