Seemor
Long Beach › Long Beach › Manaow Thai
Manaow ThaiA-Worth Trying
3618 E Broadway, Long Beach, CA 90803
· Thai restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (685 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Cozy neighborhood Thai with vibrant flavors, some Northern specialties, fair pricing, and generally friendly but occasionally inconsistent service.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Manaow Thai delivers exceptional food quality with vivid, balanced Thai flavors and standout dishes like khao soi that keep locals returning. Friendly, attentive service and a clean, modern space support the grade A- standing, though crowding during peak hours and occasional service inconsistencies prevent a higher tier. Solid neighborhood favorite that exceeds typical casual dining standards.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a small, modern space that fills quickly. Servers are generally friendly and efficient, though the pace can slip when it is packed. As one diner put it, "the herbs and spice jumped out right away," and it is easy to see why locals keep this spot in their weekly rotation. Cooking leans classic Thai with a tilt toward the north: think khao soi, papaya salad, and grilled beef salads alongside green and panang curries. Plates are polished rather than showy, with bright, layered flavors and seafood options for a splurge. Portions trend modest, so ordering to share is smart if you want to sample more of the menu. Families do fine here. Kids who like noodles and rice can stick with pad thai, fried rice, or mild yellow curry, and staff will adjust spice. There is no kids menu shown, but familiar dishes and a casual vibe make it workable for weeknight dinners.
At a Glance
- Vivid Thai flavors with standout khao soi and salads
- Friendly service and clean, modern dining room
- Can be loud and crowded; parking is tight
- Portions skew modest; a few service missteps at peak
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- northern_thai_focus
- drink_sampler_flight
- crispy_pandan_chicken
What People Love
- That first hit of herbs, lime, and chili
- Reliable favorites like khao soi and papaya salad
- Clean, modern space that still feels cozy
- Staff who guide spice levels and recommendations
Points of Concern
- Room can be loud and seating tight during rush
- Parking lot is small; expect to use street parking
- Portions run modest; order extra sides if hungry
- Isolated reports of slow or brusque service during busy periods
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$35-$50 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Papaya Salad to set the palate, then split Khao Soi and a grilled beef dish
- Seafood Curry or Roasted Duck Curry for a richer main if sharing
- Add jasmine rice ($3) and a fried egg ($3) to round out smaller portions
Perfect For
- Craving bold Thai flavors on a weeknight
- Sharing multiple small plates and a curry with friends
- Casual family dinner with noodle-loving kids
- Solo lunch with soup or noodles
Location Insights
Area: Lively coastal corridor with independent cafes and boutiques; draws locals and weekend strollers.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked; typical urban caution at night; lighting and foot traffic are solid.
Nearby: Near shops and services on E Broadway; short drive to the beach; mixed residential-commercial blocks.
East Long BeachEast Long Beach is a primarily residential area with a suburban feel, featuring a variety of local businesses and eateries that cater to neighborhood families and workers. The dining scene is casual and diverse, with many affordable ethnic restaurants serving the local community.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–21:00
Wednesday11:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–21:00
Friday11:00–21:00
Saturday11:00–21:00
Sunday11:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →