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
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Literally, was one of the best meals we've had in LA, and we've eaten at the best restaurants in the world. The food was truly transportive to the year we lived in Bangkok, but accentuated by a fine dining twist with a California fresh seafood and produce vibe. ALL of that said, when I went out of my way to tell the head Chef (white, short dark hair, goatee, tattoos), on our way out, that we lived in Bangkok for a year and that what we just ate was the best Thai food we've ever...read full review
Incredible addition to Santa Monica and outside of Sawtelle. Unique dishes that are more of a fusion of European and Thai dishes. Flavors are all there and I’d definitely go back.
Food was SOOO GOOD! We got there right during their last call but they still graciously managed to squeeze us in, ordered the calamari, crab fried rice, and crispy pork belly (forgot to take a picture), and everything tasted so good I wanted to come again! Would recommend to everyone I know.
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.