Tucked away on Higuera Street in San Luis Obispo, Thai Classic delivers a menu that stays true to its name—classic, bold, and comfortingly authentic. The standout appetizer, Fried Tofu, is crisp on the outside and silky inside, paired with a sweet chili sauce that elevates each bite. Moving into heartier options, the Pad Thai balances tamarind tang with savory notes, generously tossed with egg, bean sprouts, and your choice of protein. The noodles have just the right chew, and the crushed peanuts add a nutty crunch that finishes each forkful.
Another must-try is the Green Curry, served piping hot with bell peppers, zucchini, and basil leaves in a creamy coconut milk broth. It walks a fine line between fiery and fragrant, making it a comforting option for curry lovers. For something with depth and spice, the Pad Kee Mao—also known as drunken noodles—features wide rice noodles wok-fried with Thai basil, garlic, chili, and vegetables in a robust sauce that clings to every ribbon of noodle.
On the lighter side, the Papaya Salad (Som Tum) offers a refreshing kick. Shredded green papaya is tossed with tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a lime-chili dressing that pops with every bite. The Tom Kha Soup, a coconut-based soup with mushrooms, galangal, and lemongrass, offers a tangy yet creamy escape, perfect as a starter or a side.
For those craving something rich and savory, the Panang Curry and Yellow Curry are reliable staples. The former delivers a deeper, peanut-infused flavor, while the latter is mellow and turmeric-forward, ideal for those who prefer subtle heat. Each curry comes with jasmine rice to soak up the aromatic sauces.
And don’t overlook the Thai BBQ Chicken, grilled to perfection and served with a tangy dipping sauce, or the comforting simplicity of Chicken Satay, marinated skewers served with peanut sauce and cucumber relish. Whether you're looking for heat, comfort, or freshness, Thai Classic’s menu offers a flavorful tour of Thailand without leaving downtown SLO.