Soft Opening of Sen Thai Noodle Bar at the famous Laurel Street
San Carlos added a new name to its growing food scene this week. On Monday, June 16, Sen Thai Noodle Bar opened its doors at 677B Laurel Street, marking its soft opening with an evening of small plates, warm greetings, and traditional Thai dishes prepared with care. A word from one of the first customers: “If you’re missing real Thai flavors, this place is a must-try! Highly recommended!”
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From Home Kitchens to Laurel Street
The story behind Sen is a personal one. The restaurant began as an idea sparked by homesickness—the kind that settles in when you’re far from the flavors you grew up with. “Sen” means noodle in Thai, but the name also reflects the founder’s effort to share something familiar: food that feels like home.
Before it was a business, it was home-cooked meals for friends. That spirit still carries through each dish served.
From top left to bottom right: Gai Yang (Chicken) with Jim Jaew sauce, Beef Tartare, Pork Belly, Salmon Zapp, Scallop in Tom Yum Sauce
First Impressions: Broth, Spice, and Detail
On opening night, diners were impressed by the variety and thoughtfulness of the menu. The standout continues to be the Thai Boat Noodle Soup, praised for its “rich and flavorful broth,” tender pork, and perfectly chewy noodles; a dish that brings back memories of canal-side meals in Thailand.
But Sen’s offerings extend well beyond boat noodles. The menu includes Crudo, Tapas, Grilled Dishes (served with Jim Jaew sauce), Garlic Fried Rice Bowls, and an expanded Noodles section featuring clear broth and curry options. Diners particularly mentioned items like the scallop crudo, pork belly, and house cocktails. Non-alcoholic options include Thai iced tea, chrysanthemum tea, and a lightly sweetened coco palm juice. One early guest noted the bar’s energy, saying, “Drinks were awesome… Bartender Gigi was very awesome.”
Traditional Thai Boat Noodles
From upper left to lower right: Emerald Idol, Black Rose Colada, Chiang Mai Tai, Tom Yum Margartitas
A Modern, Compact Space
Sen’s interior blends contemporary minimalism with quiet warmth. The front bar area is sleek and lively, anchored by dual flat-screen TVs and a polished counter where guests can watch drinks being poured and conversations unfold. Behind the bar, large windows look out onto Laurel Street, drawing in natural light and keeping the connection to the street active.
In contrast, the dining area offers a more intimate experience. Black marble tabletops, paired with soft leather chairs and a charcoal-toned booth, create a sense of quiet refinement. Small glass vases with fresh-cut flowers soften the tone, while wall-mounted photographs—like the floating lanterns of Thailand—give subtle nods to the restaurant’s cultural roots. The lighting is simple but effective, with industrial fixtures adding just enough glow to keep the focus on the food and company.
Front of restaurant
Hours and Contact
For now, Sen Thai Noodle is open for dinner only, from 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Address: 677B Laurel Street, San Carlos, CA 94070
Phone: (650) 622-4919
Email: senthainoodle@yahoo.com
Instagram: @senthainoodle
Reservations are recommended as the team continues to fine-tune service during the soft opening phase.
What’s Next
There’s no full-service lunch just yet, and no grand opening has been announced. But based on early feedback, Sen is off to a promising start—offering a delicious alternative to louder trends, with attention to flavor, story, and substance.
Inside the restaurant
Sources
Sen Thai Noodle Bar Website, Yelp, and Instagram
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For more of what’s happening in and around San Carlos, please visit San Carlos Life Blog
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