After 21 years in the Castro, neighborhood staple restaurant Thai Chef (4133 18th Street) has closed.
Thai Chef's last day was December 28.
A sign in the window announced Thai Chef's closure, reading, "We're retiring and closing our restaurant."
A sign posted in the window announces Thai Chef's closure. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
"After 21 unforgettable years, the time has come for us to close our doors and bring our final chapter of this wonderful (and sometimes undeniably arduous) journey to a close," added Thai Chef in a message on its website.
"Running this restaurant has never been just a business, but it has been our family's life," added Thai Chef. "Over the years, we've navigated uncertainty through COVID, adapted to changing regulations, evolving customer tastes, and faced fierce competition from new businesses entering the scene."
Throughout its time in the Castro, Thai Chef has remained under the same ownership group. Thai Chef was owned by Narongchai and Nopparat Wirattigowit, as well as Mongkol Sangounsup.
South China Cafe at 4133 18th St. (2004). | Photo: Max Kirkeberg/SFSU
Before Thai Chef, the restaurant South China Cafe operated from approximately 1992 until 2005.
Additionally, Narongchai and Nopparat Wirattigowit also owned Thailand Restaurant, which closed in 2022 after nearly 30 years in the Castro.
Now the Castro is down to just one Thai restaurant, Thai House Express (599 Castro).
Inside the now-closed Thai Chef restaurant. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
"We are deeply grateful to every guest who has supported us throughout the years," said Thai Chef. "Your kindness and loyalty have meant everything to us."
"With sincere thanks and warm wishes. We will miss you," added Thai Chef.
At this time, a new restaurant for the space has not been announced.
