Holy Basil Santa Monica
$$ • Thai Book a table: 7:00 PM 7:15 PM 7:30 PM MoreAbout Holy Basil Santa Monica
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Holy Basil Santa Monica Reviews
79 ratings
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Food was AMAZING. Amazing hospitality from manager Aaron. Definitely will be back!
Holy Basil in Santa Monica completely won me over. From the moment we walked in, the space felt inviting… warm lighting, a relaxed but polished vibe, and just the right buzz without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of place that feels special without trying too hard.
The service set the tone. Our server was attentive, genuinely friendly, and knew the menu inside and out, guiding us through a few dishes without ever rushing us.
And the food… where...read full review
The service set the tone. Our server was attentive, genuinely friendly, and knew the menu inside and out, guiding us through a few dishes without ever rushing us.
And the food… where...read full review
It’s one of those pretentious places where they give you insanely small portions. Might be one thing if each bite was the most amazing bite of Thai food you ever had but it was pretty mid for the most part. Also they don’t have soft drink. Alll I wanted was a Diet Coke to wash down the salty taste but they only have sparkling water and hibiscus tea. I don’t know, definitely wouldn’t come back.
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 5 - 9PM |
| Wednesday | 12 - 2:30PM 5 - 9PM |
| Thursday | 5 - 9PM 12 - 2:30PM |
| Friday | 12 - 2:30PM 5 - 9PM |
| Saturday | 12 - 2:30PM 5 - 9PM |
| Sunday | 5 - 9PM 12 - 2:30PM |
Holy Basil in Santa Monica offers an outstanding Thai dining experience that outshines most, even in Thai Town. The flavors are not standard but deeper, richer, bolder, and more aromatic, providing a meal experience reminiscent of Thailand itself. The restaurant is non-descript from the outside and small inside, with an impactful, vibrant open kitchen where diners can see the cooks. The setting has a beautiful and simple decoration, creating an amazing vibe.
The wok-fired items are definitely their strong suit. Standout dishes include the Calamari in Salted Egg Brown Butter, the Eggplant and Squash Basil, the Chilli Chicken with Schezwan Sauce, and the Pork Collar in Panang Curry, noted for its incredible tenderness. The crab fried rice and the ground beef are also highlighted as amazing and perfectly seasoned. For appetizers, the Thai Caesar salad is a unique, flavorful take. Portions are on the small side but are surprisingly filling.
Service is top notch, extremely friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and welcoming. The staff is very kind and accommodating. While the atmosphere does not give off fine dining vibes, the ambiance is great. The pricing is not cheap; it is considered high for the setting, with a meal costing around $50 per person. Despite this, the food is insane, holy yummy, and the best Thai food on the westside, making it a compelling new go-to spot.