Opal Thai image

Opal Thai

Restaurant Thai restaurant

One of the Top rated Thai restaurants in Honolulu


Address

1030 Smith St Suite 6, Honolulu, HI 96817

Website

opalthai.has.restaurant

Contact

(808) 381-8091

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (875 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 5 to 10 PM
  • Friday: (Good Friday), 5 to 10 PM, Hours might differ
  • Saturday: 5 to 10 PM
  • Sunday: (Easter), Closed, Hours might differ
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 5 to 10 PM
  • Wednesday: 5 to 10 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Thai (34) experience (32) Opal (28) owner (20) restaurant (17) amazing (16) menu (13) service (13) order (12) dish (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Dien D. 3 years ago on Google
    Best Thai food! One of a kind experience. Opal really went above and beyond. He asked us some questions and then started making our food based on what we told him. All the food came out AMAZING! Even the food catered to the kids. There was a good variety of dishes. We had some leftovers (but not much because we kept eating LOL). $280 for all that food, tip, and some drinks for 10 people was actually inexpensive. Definitely coming back!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Victoria C. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely the best meals I have ever had in my life. My family and I came here the second to last night of our vacation and ended up coming back on our last night as well because we loved it so much. If you are looking for pad Thai and green curry then this isn’t the place for you. But if you’re willing to expand your horizons a bit and let Opal order for you, you will not be disappointed! I honestly don’t know exactly what I ate, all I know is that it was delicious and I wanted more! Everything tasted familiar but different at the same time. I highly recommend coming to this restaurant!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Casandra M. 3 years ago on Google
    If you are open minded to an experience, come here. My friends and I that came here are not at all Thai connoisseurs. We scanned over the menu while having conversation, and eventually Opal came over and sat down, introduced himself, and joked with us a little. Apparently it is the thing he does, but we didn't actually place an order. He asked what we liked and make accordingly, including a drunken noodle plate with both shrimp and chicken, as I don't like shrimp. The staff was extremely friendly, and we had a fantastic time with fantastic food. The price was absolutely worth it and it seemed reasonable as well, and we'll be going back. I'll be bringing some other friends too. Honestly, we were so busy enjoying ourselves, I didn't remember to get any more pictures. Please support this local business and have yourself a night out. You won't regret it.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Caid A. 2 years ago on Google
    INCREDIBLY AWESOME EXPERIENCE! Aside from some of the absolute best food on the island, this place should be a 'must go' for the experience alone. The owner will chat with you about what kind of food you like, and place the order for you. Don't be concerned about not picking from the menu - the food is mind blowing! The owner has a way with kids. He had my 3 year old eating vegetables like I've never seen! The service from the rest of the staff is on point too. Our waters never got empty, and we almost never noticed when empty plates would just disappear. Staff members are always right there if you need anything. Need another beer? They'll probably beat you to asking, but if not they're all over ready to assist. This is our new date night restaurant. Nothing on the island can even come close to comparing to Opal Thai!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Yossi 2 years ago on Google
    A rare find, words cannot describe. We came in expecting great food and ended up having not only delicious amazing food that was unique and full of new flavors we never knew exist, but also had a priceless experience with the extraordinary chef who is an artist who cares about his food and his guests more than anything. Cancel your plans to dine at a Michelin star restaurant and reserve your table here instead. You will not regret it.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Addy D. 1 year ago on Google
    Was recommended to go here on the last day of our trip, so we called to make a reservation and luckily they were able to reserve 2 spots for us at the bar. If you are adventurous and want a unique dining experience and delicious food, then come here. We weren’t sure what to expect, but everything exceeded our expectations. As other reviewers have said, Opal asks what you like and creates a dish for you based on that. We were brought out Appetizers then our dishes, and didn’t really mind spending the extra money on the additional food we hadn’t ordered because we were there for the experience and open to whatever he decided to prepare for us. It was such a fun, delicious dining experience and the best last meal before our flight back home. Not to mention the service was on point.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 annee s. 9 months ago on Google
    Amazing Thai food! Everything that chef sent out to us was delicious. Definitely going back before I leave for the states! Service was great. Must make reservations
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christopher B. 3 years ago on Google
    Probably one of if not THEE best eating experience on island. Repeat customer many times over and NEVER disappointed!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Caroline 1 year ago on Google
    A meal we’ll never forget. My family went to Opal Thai on a recommendation expecting amazing Thai food. We had an unforgettable experience with Opal - we didn’t order a single thing. He brought out dish after dish and each one was delicious. This isn’t a typical restaurant; it’s more of an experience. It will be best for those who are foodies and can roll with the punches; picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions likely will not enjoy.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jacob D. 1 year ago on Google
    10 out of 5 stars (I added 5 extra stars to my photo) I read a lot of the 1 star reviews and those people clearly have bad taste (especially when one gives Senior Peepee 5 stars) Opal Thai is real food not Panda Express. I loved every moment of the experience. If you aren’t fun or adventurous or into trying new things I don’t recommend but if you want to live a little just go with the flow and enjoy. The whole experience brought happiness to my night. It’s true the owner will feed you some things but it was fun and really broke the barriers between customer and establishment, i just rolled with the punches and I really felt it made the whole experience more intimate and I felt I made a new friend. The food was also insanely tasty and I don’t even know if I can have Thai food ever again without comparing it to Opal Thai! 10/5 Stars
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adrian W. 1 year ago on Google
    Best Thai food I've had in the US. You can order from a menu but I prefer letting Opal customize the nightly menu and surprising me. He'll do his best to make sure you don't repeat dishes. I went twice in a week and wish I could've gone more. Sending all my friends here. (call for a reservation!)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anna F. 4 years ago on Google
    They used to be in Haleiwa but they relocated in Chinatown. This restaurant has a slightly different type of experience because you don't get to order off the menu. Opal, the owner, is friendly and greets all his customers. For first timers, he'll ask if you've eaten Thai food before and to name a few dishes. He'll also ask if you have any allergies, dislikes and your spice tolerance. This is his process for figuring out what dishes to bring to the table. I recommend coming with a group of 4-6 people and factor in 1.5 to 2 hours for your meal. For regular customers, you have the option to order off the menu but when I bring my friends here, I let Opal create the whole menu. There hasn't been a dish I don't like and I always let him know in the beginning that I don't like curry. My friends still get to try a curry dish but Opal will say, "I have something else coming for you." The atmosphere in here is lively and the staff are attentive. The menu is a bit on the pricey side but the food taste delicious and the portions are decent. If you are coming with a group, you should make reservations a few days in advance. For parking, there is metered parking along Smith Street and a parking structure in Marin Tower; on the next block.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew C. 3 years ago on Google
    I now come here weekly since one of my friends introduced me. $25-$30 for dinner after tip but some of the best Thai food you'll ever have. I've never received a menu and have never been disappointed.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 TON J. 3 years ago on Google
    Food were alright and I won’t recommend to any of my friends!!!! First of all, no one had explained the service rules in the restaurant and we called the server few time but no one has stopped, then a dude which was the owner came to us and ask about if we knew any Thai food. Few min later, he came with food said try this you guys will like it. We were like what ?! Was this on house. We didn’t even know the prices and if we ordered the food.. anyway just very confusing. We asked server about the price of the food on our table and she said I will be right back. The owner came and told us we can stop serving food if that isn’t what you guys wanted... we were like we never wanted the food that on our table and he kept saying it’s about the prices. It’s about the prices... so we didn’t know the price still and $75 total for 2 ppl....... So food weren’t what we want and somewhere got rip off in legal way .... not my type of service I would like and lack of communication But I will always remember not to come back again. If you like that kinda service, you welcome to go there. If not, there are many decent restaurants in Hawaii that match your expectations!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nick 5 years ago on Google
    One of the best dining experiences I've ever had. Opal himself showed up at our table and asked if any of us had any allergies or were opposed to anything. Luckily none of us were picky, so he went in the back and whipped up a bunch of plates of his own choosing. He was very polite, friendly, and engaging, and entertaining… and of course, the food was the best Thai food I've ever had in my life. It's not often I immediately want to come back another day after scarfing down my first dish, but I definitely did after coming here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonathan M. 3 years ago on Google
    So if adventure and authentic food is what you crave, then this is the place for you. Opal is awesome, he comes out to your table and has a chat with you regarding your likes and dislikes, allergies and where and if you have travelled to Thailand. He is from Bangkok and his wife is from Isan. After finding out that my date and I are experienced eaters, HAVE been to Thailand, and that we love to try new things, he was off to put in our order. They must have their liquor license, I have seen some reviews questioning it. We got their signature sangria which is made with a red wine and plenty of fruit. It is so amazing, we had to order two. The best part is eating the wine soaked fruit right from the glass once you have consumed the beverage. He told us what we ate when we had completed our meal. He is pleasant and eager to share culinary experiences and how he got started from a humble food truck beginning. Pay attention to the instructions on how to eat. If you aren't instructed...ASK HIM! The half special cake was a sticky firm fish. So soft with an interesting texture. But oh so delicious. The crunch of the bean sprouts and the fresh cilantro help to round out this dish nicely. The flavor profile that he and his wife create their culinary masterpieces just overwhelm your mouth with balance between spicy, sweet, savory and acid. The crispy rice salad with the sausage was just amazing. I loved it. So tasty and with fresh ginger and crunchy cabbage helped offset the fatty crispy rice and Isan style sausage. Like I said, perfect balance. The Kao Soy soup with chicken was cooked perfectly. The chicken fell off of the bone and the sour soup was the perfect compliment. He actually brought me out this special hot chili condiment to eat with it and it paired perfectly. I was SWEATING! The sauteed eggplant and crunchy string bean dish cooked to perfection. A great veggie dish. So savory and herbacious with tomatoes and crunchy fried basil! The total experience, including talking with Opal was Amazing! I decided there that this would be my new favorite restaurant. We spoke of a few dishes that we wanted to try, a fried cat fish fluff and Kra Pao. We also wanted to have a curry with the small eggplant the size of marbles and a special crab dish. He asked that we call him a few days in advance so he could get the ingredients. Don't get me wrong, if you are stuffy and unable to be adventerous, perhaps this isn't the place for you. If you are fun and willing to be amazed by culinary experiences outside of your comfort zone, then head on down. Let him guide you on a culinary tour of Thailand. Just let go and enjoy what you are served.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dave O. 4 years ago on Google
    This is not just a place to eat it's where you experience Thai food. The owner will put a meal together for you customized to what your group can handle and avoid any foods your group can't handle or eat. (In most Asia cultures eating with family is expected and sharing in and with family in this experience) If you wish to just stick to the menu that's up to you. Just be polite about it then. The owner is just inviting you to experience his culture, food and be welcomed to his table. So experience is Aloha here at Opal Thai.

  • 5/5 Thomas C. 4 years ago on Google
    Our meals were exceptionally tasty, appetizingly presentable that we ate every bit of our food! Uncanny that the owner/chef knows our tastebuds to make our meals tailor-made to our liking! Wonderful experience!

  • 5/5 Louis K. M. 3 years ago on Google
    Opal........we miss you, your staff and the food so much! There is not a week that goes by that Sandy and I don't talk about our numerous times there by ourselves and with friends we have brought over the years! We hope you guys are doing well during these crazy times and look forward to seeing you again in a few months. By the way wait til February before you go to Thailand next year! Thanks again for your friendship and hospitality whenever we come! Sandy & Louis

  • 5/5 David O. 4 years ago on Google
    Best dinner experience ever!!! Thank you Opal!!!

  • 5/5 Lowell C. 4 years ago on Google
    Unbelievable place! Great hosts, food and relaxing. No need to look at the menu, the owner finds out what you like and soon a steady stream of excellent combinations start rolling out. Extremely good value. Don't miss it!

  • 5/5 Jerome Palacios M. 4 years ago on Google
    We came based on a recommendation from a local and was not disappointed. Even though our 17-month old son was not acting appropriately, the chef insisted we eat there and enjoy the food. I'm so glad he did because it was epic dining. Put simply, go there and eat whatever he gives you. You will enjoy it and remember the experience always. See you next time!

  • 5/5 Lydon T. 4 years ago on Google
    Truly an experience and definitely worth it!

  • 5/5 Matthew L. 4 years ago on Google
    Truly a great dining experience. The chef took the time to speak to us individually and then chose a 7 course meal tailored to our tastes. The wait staff was friendly and attentive and each dish was clearly prepaired with both taste and presentation in mind. Reservations are likely a must as this kitchen is definitely on the radar of must-try for both locals and in-the-know travelers.

  • 5/5 Thomas P. 4 years ago on Google
    Everything delicious, personalized food prepared by the owner.

  • 5/5 Celeste C. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing. Can't wait to come back

  • 5/5 Chris M. 2 years ago on Google
    Have been twice, once when Opals was in Haleiwa and once in Honolulu last week. Amazing food both times. Opal is the best Thai food in Hawaii. Sticky wings, duck fried rice and all other dishes were amazing. I enjoy letting Opal pick out the food to send to the table and we tell him when we are done. Opal and his son are good people who enjoy meeting people and putting on a very enjoyable meal. This is a must stop anytime I am in Oahu.

  • 5/5 P M. 2 years ago on Google
    Probably the best Thai food I have ever had. Chef opal, his family and all the staff are so attentive and professional. 10/10 recommend! Will definitely be back.

  • 5/5 Jenny L. 2 years ago on Google
    one of the best experiences I've had at a restaurant~ the owner personally goes around to ask what type of Thai food you typically eat or have tried, any food restrictions or preferences, then makes a meal that is personally for you.. and I loved that~ everyone was so friendly and they really take care of you while you are there♡ this was my last meal in hawaii and was by far the best!

  • 5/5 Roston O. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing experience. Incredible food. I will be back.

  • 5/5 Cymatic A. 3 years ago on Google
    So I love Thai food but after eating at this place I quickly found out that I realy haven't had real Thai food. Not only the food was amazing but every single person working in that resturant was so friendly. The environment is something I have never experienced. If your reading this and your in hawaii do yourself a favor and just go 🚶 thank me later.

  • 5/5 Philip W. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome experience! Chef opal teaches you about some Thai food if you've never had any and asks you what you like. Gives dishes based on preferences.

  • 5/5 Chris Battle S. 1 year ago on Google
    This was an amazing experience. We all enjoyed Opal and the family. It’s not your typical restaurant, but you’ll love it.

  • 3/5 Joshua G. 1 year ago on Google
    Delicious food, with friendly and "personalized" service. Would have easily been a 5, but they don't take AMEX, which is at least one star off in my book. The chef will ask you your taste and cook you what he thinks you will like. He was pretty spot on with me. But he did order me twice as I would have ordered for myself, which made it a bit pricey for one person. Still, the food was good so I would recommend going here. But until they start to accept AMEX, I will probably not return.

  • 5/5 Betsy J. 3 years ago on Google
    Incredible meal front to back! Will definitely be back!

  • 5/5 Rebecca T. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely amazing!!! Words cannot describe. Food is on point, chefs suggestions amazing and I cannot even pick which is my favorite. What I also LOvE is that they can accommodate allergies so well and you will have piece of mind and experience amazing dishes and not worry! Also prices are so good. Perfect for pick up to go for nice home dinner - of course when can sitting down and enjoying the service is nice :)

  • 4/5 Mark C. 3 years ago on Google
    The food was delicious! The owner really grills you on your palate to determine just how to prepare your individual meal to your specific tastes. The only challenges are the restaurant is really warm and the portion, even though I ordered from the house special entree section, was more like appetizer size and left me hungry. (I'm 170lbs) I'm excited to go back but, will try to order something more filling.

  • 5/5 Kathleen F. 4 years ago on Google
    This place is awesome! If you're not sure what you want to eat, just talk to Opal. Answer a few questions about what you like and he'll bring you amazing food. You might want reservations on weekend nights, but the wait's not bad even if you don't.

  • 5/5 Ash C. 4 years ago on Google
    Fantastic food and entertaining service. Opal (chef/owner) chats up a storm and makes sure you're taken care off. Great experience!

  • 5/5 Chris P. 4 years ago on Google
    Opal's is a wonderful gem in the heart of downtown. The food is always amazing and the service is fun and personable. Highly recommended!

  • 5/5 Ivette O. 3 years ago on Google
    Don't ask questions, just let him take you on a magic journey.

  • 4/5 felecia r r. 3 years ago on Google
    This place had friendly service with welcoming smiles. Their food is unique and has some surprising fusion twists.

  • 5/5 Victor Z. 3 years ago on Google
    Yeah just come here

  • 5/5 Joaquin C. 3 years ago on Google
    Great food and awesome hosting!

  • 5/5 Brandon H. 3 years ago on Google
    If you are courageous and let the owner cook whatever he wants for you, it will be an amazing experience. The food is super tasty and the staff make you feel like it's a special occasion everytime.

  • 5/5 Josh G. 3 years ago on Google
    Owner has a gift of hospitality. Delicious food. My favorite Thai restaurant in Honolulu !

  • 5/5 N.schaaf S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great family run spot!! Dont even look at the menu, just tell them what you like and enjoy.

  • 5/5 Samantha B. 3 years ago on Google
    Fantastic food! The chef treated me like family and every single dish tasted incredible. My husband and I were very pleased.

  • 5/5 Gsn K. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A Thai restaurant in downtown. I made a reservation at a quite popular store, but it was 20 minutes after the reservation time that I was passed through. You can tell your favorite Thai food, Thai food you have eaten recently and leave it to the owner. Even if you don't understand English, it's okay if you know Thai food names (Gapao, Tom Yum, etc.). When I told them that I had recently eaten Passille, the noodles of the ramen noodles turned into plain noodles of Passille. The owner is friendly and talks quite a bit. The neon heart is cute and looks like an Instagram. (Original) ダウンタウンにあるお任せタイ料理屋さん。かなり人気店で予約しましたが席に通されたのは予約時間から20分後でした。 好きなタイ料理、最近食べたタイ料理などオーナーに伝えてあとはお任せになります。 英語が分からなくてもタイ料理名(ガパオ、トムヤムなど)を知っていれば大丈夫です。 最近パッシーユを食べたと伝えたら締めのラーメンの麺がパッシーユの平麺になっていました。 オーナーさんが気さくで結構話しかけてきます。 ハートのネオンが可愛くてインスタ映えしそうです。

  • 1/5 Rissa 3 years ago on Google
    We ordered chicken panang curry, yellow chicken curry and chicken satay. I’m sorry to say that we unfortunately did not like the taste of anything we ordered. We usually order the same thing from every Thai place we go but this placed missed the mark for us.. :(

  • 5/5 Sarah K. 3 years ago on Google
    Possibly my favorite restaurant in Honolulu. Great food and great service :)

  • 5/5 Jerae K. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the best dining experiences you will ever have.

  • 5/5 bopstarr24 3 years ago on Google
    The food is the best!!!

  • 5/5 John B. 3 years ago on Google
    Absolutely fantastic food and service. Will definitely go back

  • 5/5 chayne w. 3 years ago on Google
    I lived in Thailand for 3 months and this place hits the mark with a perfect Thai flavor that brings me back, the owner will ask you some questions to understand your pallet and will serve you family style. I guarantee you’ll love this restaurant!

  • 5/5 mobility23 3 years ago on Google
    Don't eat here if you're in a rush; this is not takeout nor is it "fast food". They CUSTOMIZE your food according to your taste, and that is worth waiting for! The last few times, my wife has simply said "surprise me" (she's super picky mind you) and it's always amazing. The owner is hands-on & a people person - help us keep him in business during this COVID19 craziness!

  • 5/5 Quintin P. 3 years ago on Google
    Thoroughly delightful. Opal is a great person and it reflects in through his food and the welcoming atmosphere he has created for his customers. Looking forward to my next visit.

  • 5/5 Mark H. 3 years ago on Google
    Best Thai food on the island! Made me have flash backs to our trip to Phuket. Had takeout because we just left the beach but still, Thanks for the amazing Father's Day meal. Next time we will dine in and share a few rounds. The Sangria was great! The people are amazing. Only one recommendation, use Asian pear in the Sangria instead of American pears😁

  • 5/5 Robin S. 3 years ago on Google
    Best Thai food on the Island. Great service and Opal is the best!

  • 5/5 Nic N. 3 years ago on Google
    I stayed in Thailand for a month, and still *this* is my favorite Thai restaurant of them all. Opal asks what you like and chooses what he believes you'll enjoy from his menu. I only wish every restaurant did this

  • 5/5 Courtney 3 years ago on Google
    My experience was by far the most exhilarating experience in a restaurant in my entire life. My husband and I are vegetarian, working towards vegan and the owner/chef talked to us to find out a little but more about our pallet. He brought us out numerous Thai dishes both vegetarian and vegan. The food was out of this world good. Him as well as his staff went above and beyond to make us and our children comfortable. My kids adored him. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would! Definitely recommend!

  • 5/5 Nalani C. 4 years ago on Google
    Tastes like it was made in Thailand.


Call (808) 381-8091 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Vegan options
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Seating
    • ✓️ Catering
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
  • From the business
    • ✓️ Identifies as Asian-owned

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