If you’re on the lookout for authentic Thai cuisine that warms your soul and satisfies your craving for bold flavors, look no further than Manaao – Thai Comfort Food. Tucked away in Tustin, this welcoming spot offers a taste of Thailand’s beloved comfort dishes—from hearty noodle bowls to enticing curries. Whether you’re a Thai food aficionado or simply in the mood for something fresh and exciting, Manaao hits all the right notes.

Pro Tip: Manaao’s popularity often means a 30-minute (or more) wait—plan accordingly, and trust us, the food is well worth it.

Their Story: From Passion to Reality

“Founded in 2023 by Kanate and Anita, Manaao Thai Comfort Food offers Orange County the authentic flavors of Thai comfort food. Kanate was born in Saraburi (located two hours north of Bangkok), and immigrated to the United States in the year 2000. While working as a web developer, he and Anita often spent their spare time perfecting recipes from Thailand that were harder to find in the United States. At the urging of friends and family, they made the decision to open Manaao in 2022 and began searching for the perfect place. Ultimately, they chose Tustin, due to its ideal accessibility from most of Orange County. We welcome you to join us to experience our authentic recipes showcasing the full range of Thai cuisine.”

This personal touch is evident in every dish that comes out of Manaao’s kitchen. Co-founders Kanate and Anita pour their hearts into reviving the flavors of Saraburi—an area rich in culinary heritage—and sharing them with diners in Orange County. Their commitment to authenticity gives Manaao an edge that sets it apart from your average Thai restaurant.

Must-Try Dishes

Khao Soi - Braised Beef

Recognized by the Los Angeles Times as one of the Best Dishes of 2023, Manaao’s Khao Soi is a standout that captures the essence of northern Thai cuisine. Expect a lush, coconut-based curry broth, delightfully chewy egg noodles, and a crispy fried noodle garnish on top—all balanced by tangy pickled veggies and a squeeze of lime. Whether you choose braised beef or soft-shell crab, this dish is a perfect marriage of flavors and textures.

“His khao soi is among his best, with a rich, sweet broth flecked with bright red spots of chili and served with a nest of crispy egg noodle on top… pickled red onions, sour mustard greens and a squeeze of lime juice add brightness.”
— Los Angeles Times

Rich, Creamy Broth

Manaao’s Khao Soi starts with a base of fragrant spices, red curry paste, and silky coconut milk.
The broth achieves a harmony of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, capturing the essence of authentic Northern Thai street food.

Egg Noodles, Two Ways
- Soft, chewy egg noodles swim in the curry, soaking up that luxurious coconut goodness.
- A handful of crispy fried noodles on top adds a textural crunch—an irresistible contrast to the velvety soup below.
Flavorful Toppings & Accents
- Pickled mustard greens, fresh red onions, and a lime wedge typically accompany Khao Soi. They cut through the richness with bright acidity and a hint of tang.
- Tender pieces of chicken—or your choice of protein—round out the dish, adding extra heartiness.
Spice Tailored to You
- Manaao is happy to customize the spice level. Go mild for a gentler warmth, or “Thai spicy” if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Don’t be shy about asking for extra lime or chili flakes—it’s all about making the dish uniquely yours.

Pad Thai with Crispy Pork

Topping off the classic Pad Thai with crispy pork is a genius twist:

Sweet & Tangy Sauce that clings to each strand of noodle.
Crunchy Pork Pieces for an added layer of texture and flavor.
Tofu, Egg & Bean Sprouts to round out that signature Pad Thai ensemble.

Mama Thai Hotpot

A warming, communal dish that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family. Featuring:

A spicy, aromatic broth loaded with lemongrass and chili.
Instant noodles (a beloved staple in Thai comfort cooking).
Fresh Veggies & Protein of your choice, so you can ladle out the perfect portion.

Pasew Chicken

For those who love stir-fried noodle dishes, the Pasew Chicken (often spelled “Pad See Ew”) is a satisfying go-to:

Wide Rice Noodles wok-tossed with a mildly sweet and savory sauce.
Chicken and Crisp Chinese Broccoli adding a hearty, vegetal crunch.
A perfect balance of tender noodles, smoky wok-char, and well-seasoned meat that’ll have you craving more.

Thirst-Quenching Pairings

Thai Iced Tea: Creamy, sweet, and aromatic—an ideal companion to balance out any spicy dish.
Singha Beer: For those who’d like something a bit more robust, grab a Singha, a popular Thai import that pairs beautifully with just about any meal on the menu. Gentlemen, take note—this is a crisp, refreshing choice you don’t want to miss.

Don’t Miss the Coconut Ice Cream or the Mango Sticky Rice

No Thai meal is complete without a sweet finale, and Manaao’s House-Made Vegan Coconut Ice Cream is a must-try. Made with premium ingredients, it’s rich, creamy, and entirely plant-based—perfect for dessert lovers and vegans alike. If you prefer a classic, you can’t go wrong with Mango Sticky Rice. The chewy, lightly sweet rice and juicy, ripe mango balance each other perfectly, making for a simple yet indulgent dessert.

What Makes Manaao Special

Family-Style Comfort
The vibe here is cozy and welcoming, making it easy to feel at home as soon as you walk in the door. The staff are always ready with a smile and suggestions if you’re unsure of what to order.
Authentic Roots
Having grown up two hours north of Bangkok, co-founder Kanate brings traditional recipes and cooking techniques to Tustin—ones he perfected with Anita over many years. It’s food that reflects genuine Thai heritage.
Accessibility & Convenience
Located in Tustin for its central position in Orange County, Manaao is just a quick drive away for those seeking hearty Thai comfort food without traveling far.
Insider Advice
Because of its growing popularity, be prepared to wait at least 30 minutes for a table—especially during peak hours. Trust us, the payoff is worth every minute.

Tips for a Great Visit

Adjust the Spice: Don’t be shy about asking to dial up or down the heat; Manaao will happily accommodate your preference.
Explore Beyond the Staples: While classics like Pad Thai and Tom Yum are crowd-pleasers, branching out to dishes like Khao Soi or Mama Thai Hotpot can lead you to discover new favorites.
Save Room for Dessert: As mentioned, house-made vegan coconut ice cream is the perfect ending—smooth, satisfying, and refreshing.
Plan Ahead: To beat the crowds, consider going during off-peak hours or call ahead to inquire about wait times.

Final Thoughts

Manaao – Thai Comfort Food isn’t just another Thai restaurant—it’s the embodiment of a dream shared by two passionate cooks determined to bring their hometown flavors to Orange County. With showstopping dishes like the Los Angeles Times–acclaimed Khao Soi, inventive takes like Pad Thai with Crispy Pork, and the warm communal experience of the Mama Thai Hotpot, Manaao delivers a deeply satisfying blend of tradition, innovation, and heart. And don’t forget to top it all off with their indulgent house-made vegan coconut ice cream—the sweetest way to end your Thai culinary adventure.

So, if you find yourself in Tustin with a craving for Thai comfort dishes, make Manaao your first stop. Just remember to prepare for a bit of a wait—and rest assured, your patience will be rewarded with an unforgettable feast.

Manaao - Thai Comfort Food

Price: $$ | Cost $118.97 for 3 people

Food: 9/10 | Drink: 7/10 | Décor: 8/10 | Dinning Experience: 9/10

Hours: Wednesday – Monday: 11am – 3pm, 4:30pm– 9pm | Tuesday: Closed

Address: 13842 Newport Ave Suite C, Tustin, California 92780

Phone: (949) 818-8424

A Taste of Thailand in the Heart of Orange County: Manaao – Thai Comfort Food