Chaya Thai — Restaurant in Tacoma

Came here by chance on a Google search. I almost don't want to make a review because I want to keep this place to myself. But this place is such a gem and deserves to get way more business!!

The woman who runs this place does it entirely by herself which is incredible. I was so sure there was someone hiding in the back cooking, but nope! She handles taking the order, cooking, refilling/service throughout, and the register. A complete one-woman show!

Even handling everything, the food was so good! It wasn't too salty nor too oily which sometimes happens with Thai restaurants. Also the vegetables were cooked well, they still had a bite to them and weren't soggy which sometimes happens at other restaurants. Flavors felt very authentic and it's obvious she cooks with a lot of love for her food.

I will come here again very soon! I need to try...

Edit 10 months later - Still 5 stars! I have been coming to eat in person every so often and thoroughly enjoy myself every time. While I often go for chicken as my protein option at other places I always get tofu when I come here - she gets a great texture on it!

Original review - I ordered delivery here a while ago but forgot to leave a review until now. The owner was wonderful, we ordered super late - it was right near the end of her business hours - she was out of tofu. Since we ordered online, she sent us a very nice message apologizing for the lack of tofu, and explained she was worried about substituting it for a different protein in case we were vegetarian. Instead, she absolutely loaded us up with a variety of veggies! I can't even remember what the specific dish was at this point but I remember it...

Heaven! Ever wondered what it would be like to eat at a Thai Grandma's house? This is the spot! Yes there's a lot of Asian inspired food in our area, but there's few as good as Chang Thai. Every item we've ever ordered, the service is excellent and they take care to ensure the food is perfectly prepared. There's 2 locations, but we've always enjoyed the one on S 48th St. by the Mall. Our favorites so far are the Golden Bags, the Pineapple Fried Rice with Prawns, and the Pad Thai. The Curries are delicious (make sure to order a side of rice). Small businesses are the most important resources in our local communities. Chang Thai is a Jewel of Tacoma and Lakewood. Also, if there's ever the slightest issue with your order, they are quick to fix it. Their kindness...