Thoughtfully sourced Thai classics are served family-style at this warm, easygoing restaurant.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 393 Bay St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: (415) 818-8999
Website: https://www.newthaielephant.com/
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Reviews
However, the night I visited felt quite chaotic. The restaurant seemed short-staffed, and the waitress was clearly under the pump doing her best. Unfortunately, this meant long waits for meals, and even food delivery drivers were visibly frustrated by delays.
Overall, tasty food and a lovely setting, but the service experience would definitely improve with a few extra staff on shift.
You acknowledge the feedback.
You talk to the chef.
You offer to adjust the dish, remake it, or at least provide an alternative or a refund.
That is basic hospitality. That is how restaurants improve and survive long-term.
Unfortunately, that was not what happened here.
The manager was extremely rigid and dismissive. His only response was that their ingredients are “standard” and therefore cannot be changed. But let me be very clear: who decides what “standard” means—the chef, or the customers who are paying?
Customers are the ones paying the bill. Not the chef. Not the manager.
When multiple customers are saying the same thing—that the food is overly sweet—the correct reaction is to listen and adapt, not to argue and shut people down. Refusing to adjust or even acknowledge repeated feedback shows a complete lack of customer-oriented thinking.
If this restaurant wants to build a loyal customer base and last long-term, this kind of attitude is unacceptable. Frankly, the owner should seriously reconsider this management choice. One bad manager can ruin an otherwise decent restaurant—he becomes the “rotten element” that drives customers away.
As long as this manager is still here, I will not be coming back. And I hope the owner sees this review and understands that the issue is not the food alone—it’s the attitude.
For entrees, we had Pad Rad Na, Red Curry, and Basil Fried Rice – all of which were quite good. The highlight, however, was the Pad Kee Mao. We chose mild spice levels, which turned out to be too tame; a higher spice level would’ve been better.
Unfortunately, the experience was somewhat dampened when we were rushed to leave around 3:30 PM. If the kitchen closes early, it would be better not to accept orders past 2:30 PM. Rushing diners out feels inconsiderate and takes away from the experience. A clearer policy or better communication would go a long way.
That aside, we still enjoyed a good lunch overall.
The food was fantastic overall! The Egg Rolls and Veggie Fresh Rolls were fresh and satisfying, and the Thai Iced Tea was perfectly sweetened. The Yellow Curry was a standout—rich, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. While we enjoyed the Pineapple Fried Rice, we found it a bit on the bland and dry side compared to the other dishes.
The service was equally impressive. The staff was attentive, friendly, and made us feel welcome throughout the meal.
We’ll definitely be back to try more of their offerings! Highly recommend for anyone looking for a quality Thai dining experience.