"Located opposite the Los Cerritos shopping center, Thai Original BBQ is a popular dining spot that tends to be crowded. If you're planning to dine here, it’s best to arrive early, make a reservation, or call ahead. The restaurant appears small from the outside, but once you step inside, you'll find it surprisingly spacious and comfortable. A welcoming fish tank greets you at the entrance, and the staff is quick to attend to your needs.
During peak hours, guests are required to sign in and wait for a table. The decor is clean and minimalist, with a selection of interesting art posters adorning the walls. The restaurant is particularly famous for its BBQ chicken, which is a staple for anyone craving delicious Thai cuisine. It’s the go-to place for my friends whenever they yearn for great BBQ chicken. Additionally, they are fond of the Pad Thai here, which is described as a classic Thai rice noodle dish featuring shrimp, bean sprouts, egg, and a flavorful sauce. I’ve tried the Pad Thai myself and found it to be on the sweeter side, yet still enjoyable.
As for the BBQ chicken, my mother believes it tastes fantastic. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, with prices ranging from $5.75 for some special items up to $14.25 for dishes like Pla Tod Lard Prik (peppery fish). After my recent visit to Thai Original BBQ, I left satisfied with both my meal and the overall dining experience. I also felt compelled to mention that one of the male waiters was quite attractive.
**Update (7/26/2009):** I went back to the restaurant recently, but unfortunately, I was disappointed this time due to a decline in customer service compared to my previous visits. Additionally, the Mee Krob I ordered was a bit burnt. I’m considering giving them another chance, hoping for a better experience.
**Update (6/11/2010):** Previously, I rated Thai Original BBQ four stars, but after several visits since July 2009, I encountered disappointment on two occasions. During one visit, I found a wire embedded in my order of Mee Krob, which was quite alarming. I suspect it may have come from a pan or scraper used in the kitchen. Luckily, I noticed it before taking a bite, but it made me question the attentiveness and cleanliness of the staff. Despite the delicious offerings, I was hesitant to order anything after that experience. However, my hunger got the best of me, and I opted for the ground noodles. While the food itself was good, I was let down by the portion size in my take-out box; I expected more for what I paid."