The Castro's newest restaurant, Ka Kai, is now open, bringing Northern Thai flavors and tradition to the neighborhood.
Kai Kai opened last Thursday at 4133 18th St, formerly Thai Chef. Thai Chef closed earlier this year after 21 years in the Castro.
As Hoodline previously reported, Ka Kai quickly took over the space and began remodeling.
Ka Kai is co-owned by Kunvadee Doarveang, Tar Watcharin, and Pop Navapon. The trio quickly remodeled the space and reopened just in time for the launch of Castro's monthly night market.
Ka Kai is now open at 4133 18th St. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Doarveang, Watcharin, and Navapon, who all grew up in Thailand and immigrated to the United States, explained that Ka Kai is named after handmade ceramic bowls used for serving food in Lampang Province, Thailand.
"Lampang is renowned as the primary production hub for these bowls," said Navapon. "We share a deep cultural connection with the culinary culture associated with these vessels."
"The Ka Kai bowl serves as a symbol of the finest qualities and cuisine of Northern Thailand and represents the authentic flavors and dining traditions that we are delighted to share with you all," added Navapon.
Diners eating at Ka Kai will be treated to these bowls imported from Thailand while they eat.
Ka Kai co-owners Pop Navapon (left), Tar Watcharin (center), and Kunvadee Doarveang (right). | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Doarveang, Watcharin, and Navapon bring years of restaurant experience to Ka Kai. All three previously worked at the popular Mission District restaurant Farmhouse Kitchen and its affiliated restaurants, including Son & Garden, Daughter Thai, and Noka Ramen.
Watcharin and Navapon both served as environment and event managers for Farmhouse, while Doarveang was the lead server.
They explained that now was the right time to open a restaurant where they could develop their own ideas. Having just opened, they said business has been "very good, busier than we expected."
Inside the remodeled restaurant space. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Watcharin, who identifies as LGBTQ, said he "loves the Castro" and "there are so many nice people in the neighborhood."
When they saw that Thai Chef was closing and looking for a new owner, they jumped at the opportunity and contacted the owners.
Northern Thai cuisine is influenced by Burma, Laos, and China, with mild and herbal flavors. "Ka Kai is a combination of authentic northern Thai flavors mixed with American style," said Watcharin.
The food menu at Ka Kai restaurant. | Photos: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Menu options include Som Tam Thai salad ($15), Tom Som soup ($8/$18), Green Curry ($24), Ka Paw Duck ($38), Pad Thai ($19), and Ka Kai Noodle Soup ($25).
Ka Kai also offers a special Northern Thai food menu with highlights including Sai Ua ($18), Ho Nueng Sea Bass ($25), Larb ($16), and Hang Lay Curry ($30).
Doarveang and Watcharin say that Ka Kai's signature menu item is the Khan-Thok Box ($69), which is meant to be shared. Traditionally served for family or friends at a big meal, the box includes a variety of North Thai-style dishes - Sai Ua, Hang Lay Curry, Ap Mu, Larb, crispy pork skin, sticky rice, and garden vegetables.
The drink menu at Ka Kai restaurant. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Ka Kai has transferred the liquor license from Thai Chef. Wine, beer, tea, coffee, and soda are available to drink. A selection of wine cocktails is also available.
Ka Kai is open six days a week, Wednesday to Monday, for lunch and dinner, closed on Tuesday.
