GaiNoi Thai Street Food Oakland — Restaurant in Oakland

GaNai is a charming little Thai spot in downtown Oakland that packs a lot into a small space. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is cozy, and the layout, while efficient, has a few quirks that could be improved.

The setup is more of a café-style arrangement—order at the counter, then find a seat. The dining room is tight-knit and well-organized, but a couple of seating choices could be rethought. For example, the two-person table near the counter and entry door feels squeezed in, and it might have worked better on the other side where the beverage and utensil station is. Similarly, the L-shaped counter by the window is a bit awkward—two people don’t fit comfortably there. A straight counter facing the window would’ve made more sense.

Now, let’s talk drinks—Thai iced tea lovers, take note! They offer three varieties: original Thai iced tea, matcha (or maybe green tea?), and another one I didn’t catch. They’re all made with dairy, which is traditional, but a non-dairy option would have been a nice touch for those who need it.

Overall, adorable, cozy, and worth a visit. The food and friendly vibe make up for the tight seating. Would I come back? Absolutely. Just maybe not for that corner...

If you haven't eaten at Gai Noi yet, then you need to ratify this right now. Then look back on your life and question most of the decisions you've made this far. If you have eaten at Gai Noi, then you can revisit the restaurant while I speak to the "soon to be impressed". Not only does Gai Noi have some of the best Thai food between the Bay Area and the Heart of Thailand, it's also very easy to find. Get off the BART train and go upstairs to 19th St. And as soon as you put your first step onto 19th, turn your head to the east and VOILA! you found it. It's seriously no more than 10 meters (30 feet) from the corner of Broadway & 19th St. When you walk inside, look at their menu or ask the particularly gorgeous woman that works right behind the counter what she suggests. She will not steer you wrong. Then leave feeling more satisfied than you have felt since you made that birdhouse in shop class when you were in highschool. Mr. Cavender gave you a B+. However, we both know that you deserved an A+. This is what I give Gai Noi; an...

My co-worker and I tried this place for the first time. They messed up our order and gave my co-worker the wrong food. My co-worker didn't say anything since they were busy during the lunch hour. She was fine with the food they gave her. The staff their realized their error and came to our table with the correct order to go without us asking. This was excellent customer service.

Okay, now about the food. EXCELLENT!!! The garlic ginger rice is everything!!! If the rice was all there was available I would still be happy and satisfied, but luckily, they have so much more. The rice came in the Khao Man Gai (traditional). The fried tofu was soft and savory. Do yourself a favor and get some crispy chicken skin.

We will definitely be regulars at this lovely...