Holy Basil Santa Monica
$$ • Thai
Hours:
2828 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica
About Holy Basil Santa Monica
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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 | 5 - 9PM 12 - 2:30PM |
| Sunday | 12 - 2:30PM 5 - 9PM |
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.