Finding a decent Pad Thai isn't hard, but finding a spot that actually makes you feel like you've stepped into a family kitchen in Bangkok? That's a different story. Honestly, Splash of Thai Westfield has managed to pull off that rare trick of being both a reliable Tuesday night takeout hero and a legitimately "nice" date night destination.
It’s tucked away at 321 South Avenue West. If you aren't looking for it, you might miss it. But once you walk inside, the vibe shifts completely from the busy Westfield streets to something much more relaxed and, well, Eastern.
What Actually Makes Splash of Thai Westfield Different?
Most suburban Thai places play it safe. They go heavy on the sugar and light on the funk. Splash of Thai doesn't exactly do that. The executive chef, Vichaya, actually trained at the French Culinary Institute in NYC, but he learned the soul of the food from his mother. You can taste that hybrid of high-end technique and "mom's home cooking" in the sauces.
The menu is a mix of the heavy hitters everyone knows—think Drunken Noodles and Red Curry—and some more adventurous stuff like wild boar or spicy squid salad. People usually gravitate toward the classics, but the "Chef's Specialties" are where the real magic is happening.
I’ve noticed a lot of people sleep on the duck dishes here. The Crispy Duck with Basil is probably one of the most consistent things on the menu. It’s got that perfect "shatter-on-your-teeth" skin while staying juicy inside. It isn't cheap—usually hovering around the $30 to $33 mark—but for the quality, it's a steal compared to what you'd pay in the city.
A Quick Look at the Fan Favorites
- Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao): It’s got that smoky wok breath. It's spicy, but not "ruin your night" spicy unless you ask for it.
- Massaman Curry: Super mild, creamy, and packed with potatoes and peanuts. It’s basically a warm hug in a bowl.
- Crab Rangoon: Most places use a tiny speck of crab. These are actually stuffed and crispy without being greasy.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: A classic starter that actually tastes fresh, not like it’s been sitting in a freezer since 2024.
The Lunch Special Situation
If you're looking for the best value, the lunch special is basically a cheat code. For about $14 to $16, you get an entree, a choice of soup or salad, and a "complimentary" appetizer like a chive pancake or gyoza. In a town like Westfield where a basic sandwich can run you $15, getting a full three-course sit-down meal for that price is honestly a bit of a miracle.
The service is fast during lunch, too. They know people are on a clock. The owner, Jo, is often there making sure things move along, and he’s known for being incredibly helpful if you have no idea what to order.
Dietary Restrictions and Hidden Gems
One thing that really stands out about Splash of Thai Westfield is how they handle allergies. If you’re gluten-free, you’ve probably spent your life being terrified of soy sauce and hidden flour. This place is consistently ranked as one of the best gluten-free spots in Westfield. They are super transparent about what can be made GF—which is most of the stir-fries and rice dishes.
They also have "Mock Duck" for the vegetarians. It has a surprisingly good texture and absorbs the curry sauces like a sponge.
Pro tip: Try the Pandan drink. It’s green, it’s sweet, and it has this weirdly addictive nutty/vanilla flavor that most people have never tried before. It pairs perfectly with the spicier dishes.
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The Logistics: Hours and Getting a Table
The restaurant is located right across from the Westfield train station. This makes it a prime "I just got off the train and I am too tired to cook" stop.
Business Hours:
- Monday through Thursday: 11:30 am – 3:00 pm, then 4:30 pm – 9:00 pm.
- Friday: 11:30 am – 3:00 pm, then 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
- Saturday: 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm, then 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
- Sunday: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm (all day service).
They do take reservations, and if you’re planning on going on a Friday or Saturday night, you should probably use that feature. The dining room isn't huge, and it fills up fast with local families and couples.
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Final Practical Advice
If you're ordering for delivery via DoorDash or Uber Eats, keep in mind that Thai food travels okay, but fried stuff loses its crunch fast. If you want that Crispy Duck to stay crispy, you really have to eat it in the restaurant.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check the spice level: If you aren't used to authentic Thai heat, start with "Medium." Their "Thai Spicy" is the real deal and will definitely make you sweat.
- Order the Chive Pancake: It’s one of the best appetizers on the menu and often gets overlooked for the more common spring rolls.
- Look at the "A Little Special" menu: These are smaller portions of high-end dishes like Salmon or Duck, giving you a gourmet meal without the full dinner price tag.
- Call ahead for pickup: If you’re local, calling the restaurant directly (908-232-0402) is usually faster and better for the business than using the big delivery apps.
Whether you're a Westfield regular or just passing through Union County, this spot is a staple for a reason. It's consistent, authentic, and honestly just a really pleasant place to spend an hour.