Sam Cafe — Restaurant in Merced

Sam Cafe is located in the heart of the city of Merced. It has been in business since 1990 and it is family owned and operated. As I entered the establishment I was quickly greeted by a host. After selecting a table my party were served drinks and given a menu. The menu is full of delicious foods and drinks from Asia. I noticed there was a flat screen TV to the left of the entrance and to the right was a small bar. Further down was a hallway that led to the restrooms. I had expected it to be dirty and smelly. But it was far from that. Instantly I could smell the soft scent of a fragrance. Walls, doors, floor, sinks, basically everything was super clean. I was truly surprised and pleased. While we waited for our food to be served I noticed the spices on our tables were either missing or low. I had hoped to be able to add most if not all to my noodles. Unfortunately it never got replenish. Our server comes with two large bowls they smell delicious. She leaves, then quickly returns and adds meatballs to both our noodles. The cook forgot to add them. The also didn’t give us any veggies. I had to ask for that too. And still they forgot the lettuce. Oh wait I almost forgot to mention when the server brought us the meatballs she drops the spoon ito one of the bowls. She was about to reach for it, but we quickly told her it was ok we would get it. The noodles itself was delicious. Broth had the perfect amount of spices and herbs. Meat was nice and tender. Everything else from here on out...

Ran into this place on my way out of Merced heading back home. I wasn't expecting to order any food but stopping off the street to check my car I look up and there's THAI FOOD sign... So I gave them a chance. Place is very spacious, clean and well kept. Staff are very friendly and come out acknowledging everyone who is in there, which is very nice! The wait was good amount of time, especially placing to go order of 3 items right there and then. I ordered beef larb, papaya salad, and Khao Soi [which is very rare to have on a menu at most Thai / Laos places]. All the food was good, however it would be better to have some mint in the larb. I think their papaya salad sauce is already spicy, because I found no peppers in the mix, but it was hot! - that was different (good different). Khao Soi was on point! I'm a Khao Soi person over Khao Poon. Would I ordered again, if I was back in town YES...

Sam Cafe is the best Thai Food you will ever eat!!! Ask for the secret menu Fried rice i started many years ago!: my favorite you see in the picture is Yellow Curry Fried Rice! It is the best Curry Fried Rice you will ever eat! Assuming you have a fantastic taste like we do? But you can also order red Curry Fried Rice! Or if you like green Curry that too, but yellow Curry Fried Rice with a spice of lever 7 Is the best combo of flavor and spice. Sam Cafe has a very friendly atmosphere and everyone I bring, always state that Sam is an amazing guy and his restaurant is the BEST! I have been going for over 10 years! It is really worth the drive no matter where you come from!!!!! Trust me unless CoVid killed your taste buds Sam Cafe is the best Thai restaurant in the United...