BOONNOON Market

When I think of Arlington, Thai food isn’t the first thing that comes to mind—until Boonnoon opened its doors. This place has single-handedly put Arlington on the map for incredible Thai cuisine.

From the outside, Boonnoon is a humble, unassuming storefront. But once you step inside, you’re immediately welcomed into a warm, inviting space that feels thoughtfully curated. The small layout somehow feels cozy instead of cramped, with soft green walls that echo the lush plants near the windows, a display of Thai ingredients and snacks for purchase, and white marble tables adorned with fresh flowers. Every detail makes this spot feel intentional and elegant.

For our fourth Boston Dining Club meetup, we decided to dive deep into the menu, and Boonnoon did not disappoint. Here are some of the highlights:

• Ua Lao (Spicy Northern Thai Sausage): This Chiang Mai-style sausage packed with lemongrass was grilled to perfection, balancing spice with a smoky, fragrant kick. • Wings & Wings Zab: Both versions of the wings were perfectly crunchy and well-seasoned, but the Wings Zab stole the show. Topped with a citrusy, spicy powder and thin slices of red onion, it was truly something special—flavors that really make you pause. • Kui Chai (Crispy Chive Cake): I didn’t have high expectations here, having only known chive cakes through Korean or Chinese dishes. But these blew me away. Crisp on the outside with a soft, mochi-like interior, and an amazing chive aroma—unexpected and unforgettable.

Specials:

• Thai Banana Fritters: Perfectly textured and easy to share, with a subtle acidity in the bananas that reminded me of plantains. • Crab Nuggets: Thai cuisine seems unmatched at capturing crab’s flavor, and Boonnoon is no exception. If they’re available, don’t miss these. • Moo Honk: Braised pork with Chinese 5-spice that was unbelievably tender. It may seem familiar, but the way they prepare it will make it feel like you’re tasting this dish for the first time. • Larb Gai: Ground chicken with lime, spices, and red onion—a refreshing counterbalance to the richer, heavier dishes. Perfectly executed.

The food alone would make Boonnoon worth visiting, but the thoughtful service and atmosphere elevate it even further. Boonnoon isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience that feels like both a taste of home and a new adventure.