It was a pleasant suprise to find an open yet private outdoor set up restaurant in middle of China town. Serene astmosphere with water, ponds, greens, and open seating. Feel like we were in Thailand again. Food was supringly flavorful. We had tom-yum, papaya salad, garlic pork stick, chicken wings, padthai, penang curry. Its recommended to get Thai coffee or tea if you'd need to cool down eating medium spicy food. The drinks were good. This is the 3rd best Thai restaurant we tried. I gave it 4 stars on food because even though I found them exceed expectation, the 3 dishes I always order at Thai place were short of their signature taste. Tom-yum missed its significant contrast between sour and salty and mam ruoc hint. Papaya salad also missed its mắm taste, and the green beans werent smashed for earthy taste and the fish sauce they used wasnt strong enough. Penang is lighter than I expect, the other place in Orange I tried has a very deep curry taste where its richness just enough to stay on your taste bud without overpowering everything else - feeling like the dish was simmered for hrs before uts served. This one doesnt have that. But I would come back because in the end, it is very fulfilling.
Overview
If you're ever in the mood for authentic Thai and Lao flavors in Honolulu, Olay's Thai Lao Cuisine is a must-visit. Nestled at 66 N Hotel St, Honolulu, HI 96817, United States, this hidden gem serves up dishes that transport you straight to Southeast Asia. The inviting atmosphere, combined with a menu packed with bold flavors, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The first thing that stands out at Olay’s is its authenticity. Whether you’re a fan of Thai cuisine or craving something from Laos, this restaurant masterfully blends the best of both worlds. The menu is a delightful mix of familiar and exotic, with dishes like the classic Pad Thai and spicy Lao papaya salad standing out. If you’re after something a bit more adventurous, their Lao-style sausage is a must-try. It’s bursting with flavors that are both tangy and spicy, a perfect introduction to Lao cuisine for those unfamiliar with it.
One of the highlights of dining at Olay’s is the fresh ingredients they use. The vibrant herbs, tender meats, and perfectly balanced sauces create a dining experience that’s both satisfying and exciting. Each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to offering genuine Thai and Lao culinary experiences.
As you walk into the restaurant, you’ll notice the cozy vibe - it's not over-the-top or flashy, but it has a warm, inviting feeling. The staff is incredibly friendly, which only enhances the overall experience. You’ll often hear the chefs working their magic in the open kitchen, adding an interactive layer to your meal. Whether it’s a date night or a casual dinner with friends, the atmosphere at Olay’s makes it a great place for any occasion.
A personal favorite for many regulars is the Tom Yum soup. It’s a bit of a comfort food, with its rich broth and a perfect balance of sour and spicy flavors. Pair it with some sticky rice, and you’ve got a dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. For dessert, don’t miss the Mango Sticky Rice, a classic Thai treat that’s sweet, creamy, and refreshing - the perfect way to end your meal.
What sets Olay’s apart from other Thai restaurants in Honolulu is the genuine Lao touch. Many locals praise the inclusion of Lao-specific ingredients and cooking techniques that are hard to find elsewhere. The restaurant takes pride in offering a diverse menu that reflects the deep culinary traditions of both Thailand and Laos. If you’re a food enthusiast looking to dive deeper into Southeast Asian cuisine, this place is a goldmine.
The quality of food is complemented by the generous portion sizes, which are great for sharing. Whether you’re dining solo or with a group, the portions are more than enough to satisfy. Plus, the prices are incredibly reasonable considering the high-quality ingredients and the flavors on offer.
Customer reviews highlight not only the authenticity of the dishes but also the welcoming nature of the staff. Many guests rave about the personal attention they receive, with the staff eager to recommend dishes or customize orders based on dietary preferences. The restaurant’s commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience has earned it a loyal following.
For those planning a visit, it's worth noting that Olay’s is located in a convenient spot in Honolulu, making it easy to swing by after a day of sightseeing or shopping. The casual yet vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal stop for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re here for a quick lunch or a long dinner, Olay’s Thai Lao Cuisine offers a satisfying escape into the rich culinary traditions of Thailand and Laos.
If you haven’t been to Olay’s yet, consider adding it to your list. With its flavorful dishes, warm atmosphere, and exceptional service, it’s no surprise that it continues to be a local favorite. From Thai classics to unique Lao creations, there’s something for every palate at Olay’s.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ On-site services ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Live musicPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seatingOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian optionsDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Paid parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
Olay’s Thai Cuisine in Honolulu is one of those places that makes you forget where you are once you sit down which is impressive given the surrounding area. Parking takes a little planning. There is street parking and nearby lots but make sure you pay using the app because they hand out tickets all day. I chose a nearby lot for $13 and avoided the stress. There is also curbside meter parking if you get lucky. This part of town can feel sketchy at night so we went for an early lunch which felt like the right call. Once inside the vibe completely changes. The staff were friendly right away and the space is smartly decorated with a tropical feel that makes you want to slow down. We were seated next to a koi pond with a waterfall and two turtles and honestly I could have sat there talking story all day. It was calm peaceful and surprisingly relaxing. The food was solid and flavorful. Plates run about $20 to $30 each and for two people our total came out to $102. That included two drinks an appetizer sampler two main plates and dessert. The drunken noodles were a bit spicier than expected but still really good. The Pad Thai was packed with flavor and easily a standout. Thai tea and the other drinks were flavorful and refreshing at $7 each. The mango sticky rice was perfect for sharing and a great way to finish the meal. Overall Olay’s Thai Cuisine delivers good food friendly service and an atmosphere that makes you want to linger. I would absolutely come back and could easily sit here chatting for hours. Just plan your parking and timing wisely because the food and setting are worth it even if the area itself is a little rough.
Olay’s is not your average Thai restaurant. It gives you something a little extra, with their unique decor, extensive menu, and outdoor dining, the whole experience is a great one. Keep in mind, it’s BYOB. There is a liquor store/market directly next door so if you forget, you can pop over to grab drinks. They don’t have a cork fee so you don’t have to drink it all. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively. There was a wait when I went on a Thursday at 7:30pm. Next door there is a very unique bar that you can pop into if there is a long wait. The food is absolutely delicious and comes out hot hot hot! A recommend place if you’re in the Chinatown area of Honolulu.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had such a lovely lunch at Olay’s Thai Lao Cuisine in Chinatown! The place has a warm, welcoming vibe with beautiful decor and a relaxed atmosphere. The food was delicious and the portions were generous. The staff were so kind and patient with our toddler, which made the whole experience even better. A perfect spot for a family-friendly meal in the heart of Honolulu! Definitely going back!!
We had a really enjoyable experience at this place and there were quite a few highlights that made it worth visiting. The food was flavorful and well prepared. The Pad Thai I ordered mild was perfect, and I was able to fully enjoy it. It had a nice balance of flavors and the ingredients were fresh and well cooked. The Pad Sew Ew was also really good, and the Thai iced tea was just perfect, refreshing and well sweetened. Our friend tried the pineapple fried rice and while they felt it could have been a little more flavorful, the overall quality of the dishes was very solid. The atmosphere was pleasant, and the restaurant had a welcoming and comfortable vibe. The attention to detail in the presentation of the food and the taste of the dishes really showed that the kitchen put effort into their work. The only area that felt like it needed improvement was the service. We did not have enough cutlery for our appetizer and when we asked, it never arrived. When we went to grab it ourselves, the server said it was about to be brought with the main course, which was a bit confusing. Also, when deciding on the spice level for the salad, the server recommended medium for a little bit of spice, but it turned out to be very spicy for all of us. It still had amazing flavor, but the recommendation did not match the experience. Overall, it was a good visit with excellent food and drinks, and with some small adjustments in service, it could easily be a five star experience.
GO HERE. First, the food is phenomenal. I couldn't help but steal half of my husband's Tom Kha in between my also mouthwatering drunken noodles. I was making audible yummy noises. Absolutely delicious. The service was amazing, so warm, inviting and attentive without being too much. The staff here is so awesome. The setting itself is honestly one of the most beautiful restaurants I've ever dined in. Between the lights, trees, plants and whole stunning koi pond and water fall I felt like I was in a whole different world. The BYOB aspect is also awesome, we grabbed some beer and soju before coming in. Absolutely stunning and delicious, I will absolutely be making this incredible restaurant one of my frequent haunts. My left over noodles are highly anticipated for tomorrow.
One of the most beautiful Thai restaurants that we have been to! Also has great food and diverse food options for vegans and vegetarians. Not sure if they add MSG like other Thai restaurants but the flavors were just outstanding in everything that we ordered. A great dining experience with beautiful interiors which remind you of Thailand and authentic food!
Tucked away in downtown Honolulu by Chinatown, Olay Thai is a hidden gem with delicious Thai food. From the outside, you never expect the seating are to be that big and decorative. No dig on server as she was the only one on shift serving every single table but service was extremely slow. Not sure if they were short-staffed that day but not fault of our server. She was trying her best! Food was delicious and curry was amazing! Parking is limited to street parking!