Introduction: Why Anajak Thai Is Encino’s Hidden Culinary Gem

When you step into Anajak Thai in Encino, you’re not just entering another Thai restaurant—you’re walking into a piece of culinary history that has shaped thai food encino for over four decades. This family-owned gem has been serving authentic thai cuisine in thailand-style dishes since 1981, long before Thai food became mainstream in Los Angeles.

Located on Ventura Boulevard, Anajak Thai has recently undergone a renaissance under Chef Justin Pichetrungsi, who brought modern creativity while honoring his family’s traditional recipes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Thai food enthusiast searching for the perfect thai by thai restaurant menu, this guide will walk you through the 10 absolute must-try dishes that capture the essence of what makes Anajak Thai special.

From the smoky grilled meats to the aromatic curries that transport you straight to Bangkok’s street markets, every dish tells a story. Ready to explore the best thai get experience in Southern California? Let’s dive into the flavors that have made Anajak Thai a destination for food lovers across the country.

1. Nam Prik Num (Northern Thai Green Chili Dip): The Perfect Starter at Anajak Thai

Your culinary journey at Anajak Thai should begin with the Nam Prik Num, a smoky, spicy Northern Thai green chili dip that sets the tone for the entire meal. This isn’t your typical restaurant appetizer—it’s a bold declaration of authentic thai cuisine in thailand flavors.

What Makes This Dish Special

The Nam Prik Num features roasted green chilies, shallots, and garlic pounded into a rustic paste that delivers layers of heat, smokiness, and umami. Served with:

Fresh vegetables (cucumber, cabbage, green beans)
Crispy pork rinds (khao tang)
Sticky rice for the perfect textural balance

This dish represents the Northern Thai tradition of thai get dining, where communal eating and bold flavors reign supreme. The smokiness comes from charring the chilies over an open flame, a technique that Chef Justin has perfected to honor his family’s recipes.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the pork rinds! They provide the perfect crunchy vessel for this intensely flavored dip, and they’re made fresh daily at the restaurant.

2. Moo Ping (Thai Grilled Pork Skewers): Street Food Perfection

If there’s one dish that captures the essence of thai food encino at Anajak Thai, it’s the Moo Ping. These grilled pork skewers are marinated in a secret blend of fish sauce, palm sugar, garlic, and white pepper before being grilled over charcoal to smoky perfection.

Why First-Time Visitors Love This Dish

The thai by thai restaurant menu at Anajak Thai features this street food classic elevated to fine dining status. Each skewer offers:

Caramelized exterior with char marks
Tender, juicy interior that melts in your mouth
Perfect sweet-savory balance that defines Thai flavors
Subtle smokiness from charcoal grilling

The pork is marinated overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat. When you bite into these skewers, you’ll understand why this simple dish has become one of the most requested items on the thai get menu.

Insider Tip: Order extra sticky rice to enjoy with these skewers. The combination of grilled meat and sticky rice is a classic pairing in thai cuisine in thailand that never disappoints.

3. Thai Fried Chicken (Gai Tod): Crispy, Juicy, Irresistible

The Thai Fried Chicken at Anajak Thai isn’t just another fried chicken—it’s a masterclass in texture and flavor. This poulet thailand-style preparation involves a double-fry technique that creates an impossibly crispy exterior while keeping the meat incredibly juicy.

The Anajak Thai Difference

What sets this dish apart on the thai by thai restaurant menu:

Turmeric and lemongrass marinade that adds golden color and aromatic depth
Fish sauce brine that ensures maximum juiciness
Double-frying technique for unmatched crispiness
Thai sweet chili sauce for dipping

The chicken pieces are substantial, and the coating shatters with each bite, revealing perfectly seasoned meat underneath. This is comfort food executed at the highest level, and it’s no wonder this dish has garnered attention from food critics across Los Angeles.

Pairing Suggestion: The fried chicken pairs beautifully with the som tam (green papaya salad) for a perfect balance of rich and refreshing flavors.

4. Larb Gai (Chicken Larb): The Ultimate Thai Salad Experience

Larb Gai is often called Thailand’s national dish, and the version at Anajak Thai showcases why this salad has captivated food lovers worldwide. This minced chicken salad bursts with fresh herbs, lime juice, and toasted rice powder.

Deconstructing the Perfect Larb

The thai food encino favorite includes:

Ground chicken cooked with shallots and scallions
Fresh mint, cilantro, and sawtooth coriander
Toasted rice powder (khao khua) for nutty texture
Lime juice and fish sauce creating the signature tang
Thai chilies for customizable heat

This dish exemplifies the balance that defines thai cuisine in thailand—sour, salty, spicy, and herbal notes all dancing together. The toasted rice powder adds a unique textural element you won’t find in other cuisines, and it’s what makes authentic larb so addictive.

Wine Pairing: Ask for the Riesling or Gewürztraminer from their wine list. The slight sweetness complements the citrus and heat beautifully.

5. Khao Soi (Northern Thai Curry Noodles): A Bowl of Comfort

The Khao Soi at Anajak Thai is a revelation for first-time visitors. This Northern Thai curry noodle soup features a rich, coconut curry broth topped with crispy fried noodles, creating a textural wonderland.

What’s in This Signature Bowl

This thai by thai restaurant menu standout includes:

Egg noodles (both soft and crispy)
Braised chicken or beef that falls apart
Coconut curry broth with turmeric and curry powder
Pickled mustard greens for acidity
Shallots, lime, and cilantro for freshness

The magic happens when the crispy noodles on top gradually soften in the curry, creating layers of texture. This is the kind of dish that makes you understand why people drive across Los Angeles for authentic thai food encino.

Temperature Note: Khao Soi is served piping hot. Let it cool for a minute before diving in, and add lime juice and pickled mustard greens gradually to customize the flavor to your preference.

6. Massaman Curry: Rich, Aromatic, and Deeply Satisfying

The Massaman Curry represents the Persian influence on thai cuisine in thailand, and Anajak Thai’s version is a masterpiece of slow-cooked comfort. This Muslim-influenced curry features warm spices rarely found in other Thai curries.

The Layers of Flavor in Anajak Thai’s Massaman

What makes this curry special:

Tender beef or chicken braised until fork-tender
Potatoes and peanuts adding earthiness
Cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise creating warmth
Coconut milk base providing richness
Tamarind paste offering subtle sourness

The curry paste is made in-house, a commitment to authenticity that you’ll taste in every spoonful. The meat literally falls apart, and the potatoes soak up all the aromatic sauce. This is the perfect dish for anyone who thinks they don’t like spicy food, as the heat is gentle and the flavors are deeply complex.

Serving Suggestion: This curry is traditionally served with roti (Indian-style flatbread) or jasmine rice. Try both to experience different textural combinations.

7. Tom Yum Goong (Hot and Sour Shrimp Soup): The Iconic Thai Get Favorite

No exploration of thai food encino at Anajak Thai is complete without the Tom Yum Goong. This hot and sour shrimp soup is Thailand’s most famous soup, and the version here strikes the perfect balance between tangy, spicy, and savory.

Why This Soup Stands Out

The thai by thai restaurant menu version features:

Fresh gulf shrimp (never frozen)
Galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves providing aromatic backbone
Mushrooms (usually straw or oyster mushrooms)
Thai chilies and lime juice for the signature kick
Fish sauce and nam prik pao (Thai chili jam) for depth

The broth is clear and intensely flavored, not the creamy version you might find at other restaurants. Each spoonful wakes up your palate with its bright, complex flavors. This is the kind of soup that clears your sinuses and makes you feel alive.

Health Note: Tom Yum is naturally low in calories and packed with immune-boosting ingredients. It’s the perfect choice when you’re feeling under the weather or just want something light yet flavorful.

8. Pad See Ew (Thai Stir-Fried Noodles): The Comfort Food Champion

While many people default to Pad Thai, insiders know that Pad See Ew is where it’s at. This stir-fried wide rice noodle dish at Anajak Thai showcases the wok hei (breath of wok) that separates great Thai restaurants from good ones.

The Perfect Wok-Fired Experience

This thai get favorite includes:

Wide rice noodles (sen yai) with slight char
Chinese broccoli (gai lan) providing bitterness
Your choice of protein (chicken, beef, or shrimp)
Sweet soy sauce creating caramelization
Garlic and egg binding everything together

The key to great Pad See Ew is extremely high heat, which creates those charred, smoky notes on the noodles. The sweet soy sauce caramelizes on the noodles, and the Chinese broccoli adds a slightly bitter contrast that keeps the dish from being one-dimensional.

Customization Tip: Ask for extra crispy noodles if you love texture. The chefs can adjust the stir-fry time to create more char for those who prefer their noodles with extra wok hei.

9. Panang Curry: The Creamy Curry Revelation at Anajak Thai

The Panang Curry at Anajak Thai offers a different experience from the Massaman—it’s thicker, nuttier, and slightly sweeter. This poulet thailand preparation when made with chicken is absolutely divine.

Understanding Panang Curry’s Unique Profile

What distinguishes this curry:

Ground peanuts in the curry paste creating creaminess
Kaffir lime leaves providing citrus notes
Red curry base with less liquid than other curries
Coconut cream (the thick part) rather than milk
Thai basil garnish adding fresh herbal notes

The curry clings to every piece of protein and vegetable, ensuring maximum flavor in each bite. It’s less soupy than other curries, making it perfect for those who prefer a thicker, richer consistency. The peanut element adds an extra layer of richness that makes this curry deeply satisfying.

Vegetarian Option: The Panang curry works beautifully with tofu and mixed vegetables. The robust flavors of the curry paste ensure that the vegetarian version is just as satisfying as the meat versions.

10. Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niao Mamuang): The Perfect Finale

End your Anajak Thai experience with the classic Mango Sticky Rice, a dessert that represents thai cuisine in thailand in its simplest, most perfect form. This seemingly simple dish requires precision and quality ingredients to execute properly.

Why This Dessert Is Non-Negotiable

The components of perfect Mango Sticky Rice:

Ripe yellow mangoes (available seasonally)
Glutinous rice cooked to perfect chewiness
Coconut cream sauce sweetened with palm sugar
Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Crispy mung beans adding textural contrast

The sticky rice is cooked in coconut milk, making it rich and slightly sweet. When paired with the fresh, tart-sweet mango and drizzled with coconut cream, you get a perfect balance of flavors and temperatures (warm rice, cool mango). This is comfort food in its purest form.

Seasonal Note: Mango Sticky Rice is best during mango season (spring and summer). During other times of the year, ask about alternative desserts like the coconut ice cream or Thai tea panna cotta.

Expert Tips for First-Time Visitors to Anajak Thai

Making the most of your thai food encino experience requires some insider knowledge. Here’s what you need to know before your visit:

Reservation and Timing Strategy

Book ahead: Anajak Thai is extremely popular, especially on weekends
Tuesday through Thursday: Best for securing reservations
Lunch service: Less crowded than dinner, same great food
Counter seating: Available for walk-ins if you’re flexible

Ordering Strategy for Maximum Flavor

When navigating the thai by thai restaurant menu:

Order family-style: Thai food is meant to be shared
Balance temperatures: Mix hot soups with room-temperature salads
Include rice: Essential for balancing spicy dishes
Start with 3-4 dishes: For two people (you can always order more)
Trust the chef: The tasting menu showcases the best of the menu

Spice Level Guidance

Thai cuisine offers customizable heat levels:

Mild: Perfect for beginners, still flavorful
Medium: Authentic Thai spice level for most dishes
Thai hot: Only for serious spice enthusiasts
Start conservative: You can always add chili oil, but you can’t take it away

Drink Pairings That Elevate the Experience

Thai iced tea: Classic pairing with spicy dishes
Singha or Chang beer: Traditional Thai lagers
Riesling or Gewürztraminer: White wines that complement heat
Coconut water: Refreshing and authentic

What Makes Thai by Thai Restaurant Menu at Anajak Thai Different?

Understanding the thai by thai restaurant menu philosophy at Anajak Thai helps you appreciate what you’re experiencing. This isn’t fusion or Thai-American food—it’s authentic thai cuisine in thailand prepared by a chef who grew up in the restaurant.

The Family Legacy

Four decades of history: Established in 1981
Second-generation chef: Justin Pichetrungsi carries forward family recipes
Traditional techniques: Curry pastes made from scratch daily
Quality ingredients: No shortcuts on authenticity

The Modern Evolution

While respecting tradition, Anajak Thai has evolved:

Thoughtful wine list: Carefully curated to pair with Thai flavors
Seasonal ingredients: Incorporating California’s best produce
Refined presentations: Instagram-worthy plating without compromising flavor
Tasting menu options: For adventurous diners

This balance of tradition and innovation is what makes the thai get experience at Anajak Thai special. You’re not just eating Thai food—you’re experiencing a culinary bridge between Bangkok and Los Angeles.

Comparing Anajak Thai to Other Thai Food Encino Options

When searching for authentic thai food encino, you’ll find several options, but Anajak Thai stands apart for specific reasons:

What Sets Anajak Thai Apart

Feature	Anajak Thai	Typical Thai Restaurants
Authenticity	Family recipes from Thailand	Americanized versions
Ingredients	House-made curry pastes	Pre-made pastes
Atmosphere	Intimate, refined	Casual, generic
Chef Background	Thai heritage, formal training	Varies widely
Menu Depth	Regional specialties included	Standard menu items

Price Point Considerations

Appetizers: $8-$15
Main dishes: $15-$28
Desserts: $8-$12
Value proposition: Higher than fast-casual, but worth every dollar

The prices reflect the quality of ingredients and preparation. When you compare the experience to other thai by thai restaurant menu options in Los Angeles, Anajak Thai offers exceptional value for authentic Thai cuisine.

Understanding Thai Cuisine in Thailand vs. American Thai Restaurants

To fully appreciate what makes Anajak Thai special, it helps to understand authentic thai cuisine in thailand versus what most American restaurants serve.

Key Differences in Authentic Thai Cooking

Balance of flavors: True Thai cuisine always balances:

Sour (lime, tamarind)
Salty (fish sauce, soy sauce)
Sweet (palm sugar, coconut)
Spicy (chilies, pepper)
Herbal (basil, cilantro, mint)

Ingredients matter: Authentic restaurants like Anajak Thai use:

Fresh galangal (not powdered)
Real kaffir lime leaves (not extract)
Thai basil (not Italian basil)
Palm sugar (not white sugar)
Fish sauce as primary salt source

Cooking techniques: Traditional methods include:

Charcoal grilling for smoky flavors
High-heat wok cooking for stir-fries
Slow-braising for curries
Pounding in mortar and pestle for pastes

These distinctions transform good Thai food into extraordinary thai get experiences that transport you to Thailand with each bite.

The Health Benefits of Thai Cuisine

The dishes at Anajak Thai aren’t just delicious—they’re also packed with health benefits, making thai food encino a smart choice for health-conscious diners.

Nutritional Highlights of Thai Cooking

Anti-inflammatory ingredients:

Turmeric in curries (powerful anti-inflammatory)
Galangal (similar to ginger, aids digestion)
Lemongrass (rich in antioxidants)
Kaffir lime leaves (vitamin C boost)

Probiotic and fermented elements:

Fish sauce (fermented, supports gut health)
Pickled vegetables (probiotics for digestion)

Fresh herbs and vegetables:

Cilantro, basil, mint (vitamins and minerals)
Thai chilies (metabolism boost from capsaicin)
Lime juice (vitamin C, aids iron absorption)

Lean proteins and healthy cooking methods:

Grilled meats instead of fried
Coconut milk (contains healthy MCT fats)
Abundant vegetables in every dish

When you choose authentic thai cuisine in thailand style cooking, you’re getting food that nourishes your body while delighting your palate.

How to Plan Your Perfect Anajak Thai Experience

Maximizing your first visit to this thai by thai restaurant menu destination requires some planning. Here’s your complete guide:

Before You Go

Make reservations early:

Call or use OpenTable
Weekday dinner slots fill up 1-2 weeks ahead
Weekend reservations need 2-3 weeks advance booking

Check seasonal specials:

Follow their Instagram for daily specials
Seasonal ingredients change the menu
Special events and tasting menus announced online

Consider dietary restrictions:

Vegetarian and vegan options available
Gluten-free requests accommodated
Nut allergies should be communicated to staff

During Your Visit

Arrival and seating:

Arrive 5-10 minutes early
Counter seats offer kitchen views
Table seating better for larger groups

Ordering approach:

Start with 2-3 appetizers to share
Order main dishes for the table (family-style)
Save room for dessert (seriously)

Pacing your meal:

Let appetizers arrive before ordering mains
Dishes come out as they’re ready (not all at once)
Don’t rush—Thai dining is meant to be leisurely

After Your Meal

Support and share:

Leave a review if you enjoyed your experience
Tag them on social media
Return to try dishes you missed

Take-out considerations:

Most dishes travel well
Order curries and soups separately from rice
Request extra lime and chilies for customizing at home

Frequently Asked Questions About Anajak Thai

What is the best time to visit Anajak Thai for first-timers?

The best time for first-time visitors is Tuesday through Thursday during early dinner hours (5:30-6:30 PM). These time slots are less crowded, giving you more attention from staff and a relaxed atmosphere to fully enjoy the thai food encino experience. Weekday lunches are also excellent if you want to avoid crowds while experiencing the same quality from the thai by thai restaurant menu.

How spicy are the dishes at Anajak Thai compared to other Thai restaurants?

Anajak Thai serves authentic thai cuisine in thailand spice levels, which are generally spicier than Americanized Thai restaurants. The “medium” spice level here equals “hot” at most other places. First-timers should start with “mild” and add the provided chili oil and fresh chilies to customize heat. The thai get approach here respects authentic heat levels while allowing customization.

Is Anajak Thai suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Yes, Anajak Thai offers several vegetarian and vegan options. Many dishes can be modified to remove meat and use tofu or vegetables instead. The Panang curry, Pad See Ew, and various salads work beautifully as vegetarian dishes. However, traditional thai cuisine in thailand uses fish sauce in most dishes, so vegans should specifically request dishes made without fish sauce or oyster sauce.

Do I need to make a reservation, or can I walk in?

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Anajak Thai is one of the most popular thai food encino destinations, and walk-ins often face 1-2 hour waits. Counter seats are sometimes available for walk-ins, but booking ahead ensures you get your preferred time and seating. Book 2-3 weeks in advance for weekend dinners.

What’s the average cost per person at Anajak Thai?

Expect to spend $40-$60 per person for a complete meal including appetizers, main dishes (shared family-style), drinks, and dessert. This is higher than casual Thai restaurants but reflects the quality of ingredients and authenticity of the thai by thai restaurant menu. The tasting menu option costs around $75 per person and showcases the best dishes.

Can I order the Mango Sticky Rice year-round?

Mango Sticky Rice availability depends on seasonal mango quality. The best time is March through September when mangoes are at peak ripeness. During off-season months, Anajak Thai may substitute with other desserts or use imported mangoes, but the dish shines brightest during peak season. Call ahead if this dessert is a must-have for your visit.

Are there gluten-free options on the Anajak Thai menuYes, many dishes are naturally gluten-free, including most curries, grilled meats, and rice-based dishes. However, soy sauce contains gluten, so dishes with soy sauce (like Pad See Ew) need modification. Inform your server about gluten sensitivities, and they can guide you to safe options and make substitutions. The Thai cuisine in Thailand tradition uses rice noodles and rice, making many options naturally gluten-friendly.

What makes the Thai fried chicken at Anajak Thai different from regular fried chicken?

The poulet thailand style preparation at Anajak Thai involves a turmeric and lemongrass marinade, a fish sauce brine for maximum juiciness, and a double-frying technique that creates an extraordinarily crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender. The seasoning blend is distinctly Thai with aromatic spices, and the accompanying sweet chili sauce provides the perfect sweet-spicy contrast.

Conclusion: Your Anajak Thai Adventure Awaits

Experiencing the top 10 must-try dishes at Anajak Thai isn’t just about eating—it’s about understanding why this restaurant has become a pilgrimage site for Thai food lovers. From the smoky Nam Prik Num to the comforting Khao Soi, each dish represents authentic thai cuisine in thailand prepared with care and respect for tradition.

Whether you’re seeking the best thai food encino or exploring the diverse thai by thai restaurant menu offerings, Anajak Thai delivers an experience that transcends typical restaurant dining. The family legacy, commitment to authenticity, and modern refinement create something special—a thai get destination that honors the past while embracing the present.

First-time visitors should approach their meal as a journey through Thailand’s diverse culinary regions. Start with Northern specialities, explore the curries that showcase the complexity of Thai spices, and don’t miss the grilled dishes that capture the essence of Thai street food culture. The poulet Thailand preparations alone are worth the visit, but it’s the complete experience—from the warm hospitality to the final bite of Mango Sticky Rice—that will keep you coming back.

Ready to embark on your Thai culinary adventure? Make your reservation at Anajak Thai today and discover why this Encino gem has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers across Southern California. Your taste buds will thank you for the introduction to authentic thai cuisine in thailand, prepared with passion right in your neighborhood.

Book your table now and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the flavors that define Thai cooking at its finest. The experience that awaits you at Anajak Thai will change how you think about Thai food forever.