What is the small gold statue I often see in Thai restaurants or buildings?
The small gold statue you may notice at 78 Thai Kitchen is likely a representation of Buddha or a traditional Thai spirit house (San Phra Phum). Buddha statues are common in Thai culture as symbols of peace and enlightenment, often placed in restaurants to bring good fortune. A spirit house, if present, is a small shrine to honor protective spirits. Please treat these with respect by not touching or pointing at them, as they hold cultural and spiritual significance.

What are the spice levels at 78 Thai Kitchen, and what would you recommend?
At 78 Thai Kitchen, our dishes can be customized to your preferred spice level:

1. No Spice: Full flavor, no heat.

2. Mild: A gentle kick, perfect for beginners.

3. Medium: A balanced heat for those who enjoy a little spice.

4. Spicy: Bold and fiery, for spice enthusiasts.

5. Thai Spicy: Intense heat, authentic to traditional Thai cuisine—proceed with caution!

   We recommend starting with Mild if you’re new to Thai food to enjoy the rich flavors without overwhelming heat. For vegetarian dishes like our Green Curry or Pad Thai, Medium is a great choice to enhance the taste. Let your server know your preference, and we’ll tailor it for you!

How can I tell you the food is delicious in Thai?
To say “the food is delicious” in Thai, you can say: “Aroi mak” (pronounced: ah-roy mak). This simple phrase means “very delicious” and is a wonderful compliment to our team at 78 Thai Kitchen. Feel free to share it with your server—they’ll love hearing it!

What if I want to thank the chef?
We’re thrilled you want to show appreciation for our culinary team! You can tell your server you’d like to thank the chef, and they’ll pass along your kind words. If you’d like to say it in Thai, try: “Khob khun chef” (pronounced: kope koon chef), which means “Thank you, chef.” For an extra touch, mention a specific dish you loved, like our vegetarian Panang Curry or Tom Yum Soup!

Do I leave tips for the waiter/waitress at 78 Thai Kitchen?
Tipping is customary in the United States, including at 78 Thai Kitchen in Carlsbad. While not mandatory, a tip of 15-20% of the bill is standard for good service in restaurants.

If you’re ordering through our DoorDash link (https://www.doordash.com/store/kinaly-lao-&-thai-eatery-carlsbad-24616515/), you can add a tip for the delivery driver. Your generosity is greatly appreciated by our hard-working staff!

What makes 78 Thai Kitchen unique?
At 78 Thai Kitchen, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan options, crafted with the same authentic Thai flavors as our traditional dishes. From our creamy Vegetarian Coconut Soup to our spicy Basil Tofu Stir-Fry, there’s something for everyone. Located in the heart of Carlsbad, California, we’re committed to bringing you a warm, welcoming dining experience with bold flavors and cultural authenticity.

Why did the restaurant change its name?
We recently rebranded from Kinaly Lao & Thai Eatery to 78 Thai Kitchen to reflect our new ownership team and to make our restaurant easier to find for our Carlsbad community and visitors. The name “78 Thai Kitchen” captures our vibrant, welcoming spirit and our focus on authentic Thai cuisine, while honoring our roots. Rest assured, our commitment to delicious food, extensive vegetarian options, and exceptional service remains unchanged. Come experience the same great flavors with a fresh new name!

Visit us in-person or order online at https://www.doordash.com/store/kinaly-lao-&-thai-eatery-carlsbad-24616515/