Manaao Thai Comfort Food is scheduled to open its doors at Irvine Spectrum Center this month, marking an expansion for the acclaimed restaurant. Owners Chef Kanate Ungkasrithongkul and his wife, Anita Lin, established their initial venture in Tustin in 2023, where it quickly garnered positive attention. The new Irvine location aims to translate the concept’s reputation for a “beautiful, cheery, and endearing” atmosphere, beginning with its distinctive decorative choices visible upon entry. This opening introduces another global flavor to Irvine’s retail landscape, which continues to grow with new dining options for residents.
Upon entering the new Manaao location, guests will encounter a specific aesthetic that includes a “Wall-E” figurine and framed yellow rubber duckies. Chef Ungkasrithongkul shared the inspiration behind these elements. The rubber duckies are a continuation of a tradition from a previous workplace, which the chef noted “make me smile!” The selection of the “Wall-E” figurine reflects a personal sentiment, as he describes it as “the only Disney movie that’s happy from beginning to end,” suggesting a deliberate effort to cultivate a consistently positive environment for diners. These personal touches contribute to the restaurant’s intended welcoming ambiance.
The Tustin location of Manaao Thai Comfort Food has already received significant accolades. The government of Thailand formally recognized the restaurant by bestowing its Thai Select accolade, an official designation that points to the authenticity and quality of its cuisine. This recognition came shortly after its 2023 opening. Further solidifying its culinary standing, Manaao’s khao soi noodles were specifically highlighted by the L.A. Times, which included them among the year’s best dishes. These distinctions suggest a high standard of culinary execution and traditional preparation that is now being brought to Irvine.
Chef Ungkasrithongkul intends for Manaao’s menu to offer a comprehensive representation of Thai cuisine, moving beyond the limited perception many Americans hold. While some may associate Thai food with only “half a dozen dishes such as pad thai,” Manaao presents a selection of 40 distinct dishes. The chef emphasized that these are the dishes he grew up with, expressing a desire for diners to experience the authentic range of flavors he misses. This approach aims to provide Irvine residents with a diverse array of traditional Thai comfort foods, showcasing the depth and variety of the country’s culinary heritage at the new Spectrum Center location.
