My husband and I went to Chao Baan this past weekend with original plans to go to Seoul Taco. We were feeling adventurous and wanted to try something new. We were so glad we did. I got the Thai Fried Rice with Chicken and he got the Massaman Curry with noodles. Both dishes were delicious!!! We sat at the bar and Bella was the Bartender. She was so sweet and super helpful helping us pick items and cocktails off the menu. It was Happy Hour. By the way, they have Happy Hour everyday 4-6pm closed on Tuesdays. Definitely go try this place out!
Overview
If you're looking for a cozy spot with an exciting culinary twist in St. Louis, Chao Baan at 4087 Chouteau Ave #5 should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant brings a unique fusion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight.
When you step into Chao Baan, the first thing that strikes you is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The modern yet laid-back decor sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The friendly staff adds to the charm, making you feel like you're part of the family from the moment you walk in. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the vibe here is relaxed, perfect for a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner.
But of course, the star of the show at Chao Baan is the food. The menu is a reflection of the diverse culinary traditions that inspire the restaurant. From bold, spicy dishes to comforting, savory options, there’s something for everyone. One of their signature dishes, the Thai-style curry, is a must-try. It’s rich, fragrant, and has just the right amount of heat, offering a true taste of Thailand with a St. Louis twist.
The menu also features a variety of noodle dishes, rice bowls, and fresh salads, each designed to bring together the freshest ingredients with authentic seasonings. For a more adventurous palate, the restaurant offers a selection of unique small plates, perfect for sharing. One standout is the crispy spring rolls, stuffed with a medley of vegetables and served with a tangy dipping sauce. Every bite is an explosion of flavor.
What makes Chao Baan even more special is the way they pay attention to detail in every dish. They use local, sustainable ingredients whenever possible, ensuring that you get the best of what the region has to offer. This commitment to quality is evident in the depth of flavor in every dish.
In addition to the food, the restaurant’s drink menu is also noteworthy. Whether you're in the mood for a craft cocktail, a glass of wine, or something non-alcoholic, there's plenty to choose from. One of the most popular drinks is their signature iced tea, which pairs perfectly with any meal and has become a favorite among regulars.
Over the years, Chao Baan has built a loyal following, and it’s easy to see why. The restaurant’s ability to blend different cultural influences into a cohesive dining experience is truly remarkable. For instance, the balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements in their dishes isn’t just random-each combination is carefully crafted to highlight the nuances of the ingredients, creating a harmonious experience.
The restaurant's location on 4087 Chouteau Ave is convenient for both residents and visitors, making it a great spot to enjoy a hearty meal after exploring the city. With its welcoming atmosphere, innovative menu, and commitment to high-quality ingredients, Chao Baan is quickly becoming a beloved gem in the St. Louis food scene.
When it comes to reviews, Chao Baan consistently receives praise for both its food and service. Customers rave about the variety and boldness of the flavors, as well as the attentive and knowledgeable staff. It’s not just about a meal here; it’s about enjoying a complete dining experience that leaves you feeling satisfied and eager to return.
Next time you're in St. Louis and craving something that stands out from the usual dining options, make sure to stop by Chao Baan. With its vibrant menu, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere, it’s a place where you’ll always find something new to enjoy.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as Asian-ownedService options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great tea selection ✓ SportPopular for
✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Healthy options ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ Locals ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Overall, fantastic restaurant! The food was amazing with popping flavor and large portions! I had the whiskey sour and was not disappointed, while most places water down their beverages, Chao Baan does not do this! The drink was amazing and I found the quality was great! We had crab Rangoon that were probably the best I have ever had, and the Pad Thai was to die for! Our server was very accommodating to our needs and very respectful. Fantastic service! Overall, a great place for a family night or romantic date night!
Quite possibly the best tom kha soup I've ever had! I went during the happy hour (4-6), and I ordered a drink, appetizer, and the soup as my entree. The spring rolls came out quickly, and they were piping hot and delicious. I was expecting 2-3 spring rolls, and I was pleasantly surprised to see 5. The server was kind and her timing was excellent. The prices are reasonable, too, especially considering the quality and quantity. I had a great experience, and I will definitely be back next time I'm in STL!
I've had Chao Baan for takeout or delivery 10-20 times and it hits every time. Last night was my first time dining in, as a party of three. Everyone really enjoyed the appetizers, their drinks, and the entrees. Appetizers: Tod Man, Spring Rolls. Mains: Beef Nam Tok (pictured), 4 Kings of Thailand, Khao Soi. Our server Essah was attentive and an enthusiastic cheerleader for every decision we made.
Limited staff (sign posted on host podium), but delicious food. The portions are more than generous. We ordered #CrabRangoon to share and I had the fried tofu Pad Thai medium. It was yummy even as leftovers! Street parking available. Would recommend.
The place is modern chic. I love the diversity that it offered. The hostess was nice and our server (young male) was attentive and friendly. The food was good. We came on a Monday evening. It wasn’t busy and the food came out very fresh. I personally enjoyed the flavors. They were overwhelmingly drowned out by sauce. My 15 year old is a picky eater and he really enjoyed his dish. Some things to note, there are no salt/pepper/soy sauce/or other sauces on the tables so you do have to ask for those. The menus are a QR code, so you should be familiar with using that ahead of time. Also, the sodas are canned. (No free refills) It’s in The Grove so it has that casual, lowkey, eclectic vibe. There’s plenty of seating and open space. Overall, it was a good experience.