Bulan Thai

Tucked away on Santa Monica Boulevard in Silver Lake, right across from the neighborhood Erewhon, Bulan Thai has carved out a reputation as the go-to destination for anyone craving Thai food without the meat. Step inside the cozy, intimate dining room and you’re immediately wrapped in the warm, fragrant aroma of simmering curries that sets the stage for what’s to come.

The menu here is impressively expansive, covering all the Thai classics you know and love—pad thai, satay skewers, steaming bowls of tom yum soup—but with a clever twist. Everything is crafted using soy-based proteins that convincingly stand in for chicken, beef, and even duck. The real stars of the show are the crispy orange chicken, which delivers that perfect balance of tangy citrus and subtle sweetness, and the red curry, rich with coconut cream and elevated by the bright notes of Thai basil and lemongrass.

This is the kind of spot that works beautifully for a laid-back weeknight dinner or when you’re meeting up with friends who happen to be plant-based. The casual vibe means no fuss, just good food at friendly prices that won’t put a dent in your wallet.

Whether you’re a committed vegan, a curious vegetarian, or just someone looking to eat a little lighter without sacrificing flavor, Bulan Thai delivers. It’s proof that Thai food can shine just as bright—maybe even brighter—when the kitchen goes entirely plant-based.