Do you like Thai food? Then you need to try White Elephant. The modern Thai concept transcends the typical Thai restaurant experience with its mix of traditional dishes and “simple twists on the bold tastes of Thailand.” The result is a menu that caters to both seasoned Thai food enthusiasts and curious palates seeking a flavor adventure. I had the pleasure of having dinner at their DTLA location, and let me tell you, I was blown away because the food is absolutely DELICIOUS. (Cover Photo Credit: Jasveer Sidhu)
A Culinary Journey: Unveiling the White Elephant Experience
My recent visit to White Elephant was an exploration of vibrant flavors and textures. We started with a selection of delectable “munchies,” perfectly designed to whet the appetite. The Fried Shrimp Wontons were exemplary – crisp exteriors yielding to succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp within. A delightful starter, ideal for sharing or indulging in solo.
Next came the Scallop Chawanmushi. This savory Japanese egg custard, infused with subtle Thai nuances, provided a textural contrast. Silky smooth custard cradled tender scallops and a medley of vegetables, resulting in a comforting and unexpectedly delightful fusion.
No exploration of Thai cuisine is complete without my favorite, the popular Papaya Salad. White Elephant’s rendition, featuring fresh papaya, succulent shrimp, and a perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and spicy dressing, was a refreshing and vibrant dish. I like my Payapa Salad with some kick and White Elephant listened. My salad was robust and spicy!
My friend was craving a more hearty meal and opted for White Elephant’s Drunken Noodles. Imagine sinking your teeth into wide rice noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and a potent (yet delightful) chili sauce. Simply put, the dish was delicious.
Other Signature Creations
For those seeking to venture beyond the familiar, White Elephant invites you to try their signature creations like the their Crispy Branzino, Braised A5 Panang, Crying Tiger Steak, Honey Pork Belly, Coconut Milk Fried Chicken, and the Imperial Crab Curry, which I vowed to get this next time!
A Sweet Conclusion: Mango Sticky Rice and Beyond
A Thai meal wouldn’t be complete without dessert. We concluded our culinary exploration with the Mango Blue Sticky Rice. This vibrant dish features fragrant sticky rice infused with butterfly pea flower for a stunning blue hue, topped with fresh mango and a sweet coconut sauce. It’s a tasty and visually stunning way to end your meal. Take my word for it, this dish is an absolute MUST-ORDER!
An Unforgettable Culinary Adventure Awaits
White Elephant is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience highlighting some of the best Thai food in LA. From the fresh, high-quality ingredients to the explosion of flavors on your plate, it’s a place where tradition meets innovation, creating a truly unforgettable dining adventure. So, gather your friends and family, head to Downtown LA or Anaheim, and embark on your own White Elephant culinary expedition. You won’t be disappointed! $19+; Mondays – Sundays, 12 – 3:00 pm and 4 – 9:00 pm; 541 S. Spring St., Ste 106, Los Angeles, CA 90013; 213.395.0018 and Mondays – Sundays, 11:30 am – 9:00 pm; 440 S. Anaheim Blvd, Ste 207, Anaheim, CA 92805; 714.603.7630
