Pad Thai vs. Drunken Noodle — Which Should You Order at Eat Kao?

Two Great Thai Noodles, One Tough Choice

When you're ordering from Eat Kao in Lawrence, MA, the noodle section of the menu can create a very real dilemma. Two dishes come up again and again: the Pad Thai ($16) and the Drunken Noodle 🌶️🌶️ ($16). Same price, very different experiences. Here's how to pick the one that's right for you.

What Makes Pad Thai the Classic Choice

Pad Thai is one of the most recognized Thai dishes in the world for good reason. At Eat Kao, it delivers the familiar balance of slightly sweet, savory, and tangy flavors that Thai noodle fans expect. It's made with rice noodles and comes together in a way that feels both approachable and satisfying.

If you're new to Thai food, introducing a friend to the cuisine, or simply want something comforting and reliably good, Pad Thai ($16) is your answer. It's a crowd-pleaser without being boring.

What Makes Drunken Noodle Different

The Drunken Noodle 🌶️🌶️ ($16) — known in Thai cuisine as Pad Kee Mao — is a bolder, spicier experience. The double chili symbol is there for a reason. Expect wide rice noodles, a savory and aromatic sauce, and real heat that builds as you eat.

If you love spicy food and want something with more complexity and punch, Drunken Noodle is the move. It pairs especially well with the Thai Ice-Tea ($6), which helps cool things down between bites.

Eat Kao also offers a Drunken Noodle ($15) — a milder, non-spicy version for those who want the flavor profile without the heat. That flexibility is one of the things that makes the menu so easy to navigate.

Still Can't Decide?

Honestly, both dishes are worth trying — and at the same price point, there's no wrong answer. The easiest solution is to order one now and save the other for your next pickup from Eat Kao in Lawrence. Call ahead or stop in for takeout and let the noodles do the talking.