Chao Phra YA Thai — Restaurant in McNair

Hostess was dismissive when asked if we could get a table away from the drafty door saying the rest of the restaurants available area was reserved. We asked twice if we could have a different seating and she loudly said NO WE MAY NOT! I feel she was trying to embarass us. There was NO ONE else in the restaurant at that time. Yet we could hear guests who walked in afterwards without reservations (since we were at the front door) given tables immediately where we had previously asked to sit and worse yet we had to grab seats for ourselves since we had twelve people. There was space for 12 people in that restaurant as we saw 8 walkin /no reservation groups come by us and get those seats.

We took one from their stuffed animal, we asked for more chairs but they just counted tables and walked away like that solved anything. We felt so unwelcome. Why would they act like that?

Yes we are a minority group so take that for what you will. At no time did a party group come to take up the rest of the area at all, other than one group of 6 with a reservation. People were given booths and tables inside the main dining area,while we who were there before anyone else, were forced to sit near the entranceway and the draft from the door opening constantly. If my friends from out of state weren't there I would have brought this back up to her .Very disappointing. On top of that most didn't care for the food, it was only ok.

In response: So the entire restaurant was completely empty. At no time during our time there did this reservation party come. Also there were plenty of other booths open. It was presented as if the entire rest of the restaurant was unavailable to us. Yet the booths were used for people who walked in without reservations after us.

Does not explain why we had to grab seats for ourselves as well. I wanted to give you the benefit of the doubt which is why we stayed but sadly it showed we were singled out. I wrote this out of good conscience for my kids and the other five young people who I would expect to stand up to unfair treatment they may face in their future in hopes this establishment won't repeat...

I couldnt tell from the outside, but upon entering I saw the most adorable restaurant ever. From the stuffed bears wearing pig and alligator costumes, to the positive saying wallpaper. This is by far a very unique original and excessively pleasant experience. My fiances eyes lit up as she smiled like a little girl again. Before we left she just had to squeeze one if the fat stuffed animal dogs. She talked about them for the rest of the evening. I was so impressed that my tip was higher than the cost of my meal. The smoothies were so tasty. The bubble teas were delicious. Fresh berries decorated the beautiful glasses they were served in. The appetizers were garnished so nicely, and had cute little serving dishes with a little spoon for the sauces. There was a cute bear couple wearing matching outfits beside us. At the table in the corner was a huge stuffed giraffe dining solo at a table. By the door a small group of bears wearing pig and alligator costumes were dining at a table. The service was outstanding. The food presentation was top of the line. The portions were large enough to take home more than half. I was so impressed that we have already made plans to return tonight, and at least weekly to experience this wonderful place. Truly truly a magical, delightful, one if a kind hidden gem. I would even recommend this as a destination for travel. Breathtaking, surprising, and truly remarkable. Every person should see this at least once in their lifetime. They should taste the delicious beverages and food that is presented so perfectly. There truly arent words to describe how enjoyable this place is to all...

Chao Phra YA Thai is the place go if you need super tasty Thai food in Reston, Herndon area. I used to go to their Reston place - MyHome Thai Bistro but their quality/taste has been gone down so i did taste about 6 Thai restaurants in the area and finally this place was found. Pricing of the menu is very reasonable and portions are great comparing to others in the area.I drive 5 miles to get my best Thai food (Pad thai, Pineapple fried rice, Crab fried rice, Basil fried rice, Galanga soup and Siam beef) . I go to them at least three/four times a week and they don't disappoint. Their staff is very nice and accommodating. Manager Jake and his team is awesome.

However, their kitchen is super busy on weekends (F. Sat. Sun). You need to order ahead of time like 45 mint- 1hr in advance. Perhaps they should hire more people for the kitchen or back end operation if its not enough to cater the demand. You can order food online, but it's a bit more expensive than their menu price. So, I always call them to place my order. I place 3-5 times a week so dont want to pay extra for food platform service fees. I do have to call multiple time though, probably because they are either short on people or super busy. There is an inconsistency in the 'spicy levels'. Sometimes I've noted, their 'spicy level 4' is what is at a spicy level that i can handle, but other times their 'level 4 is too spicy. It changes depending on the chef i think. Not all the times but i have realized this...