Aroy Mak Thai Food opened in Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood with over 40 years of family recipes and the kind of Hainan chicken rice that converts skeptics.
“Aroy Mak” translates to “Very Delicious” in Thai, and after closing their West Seattle kitchen to focus on this 14419 Greenwood Ave N location, they’ve proven the name fits.
The family-owned spot serves Thai street food the way it’s actually prepared in Thailand rather than adapting for American expectations.
What Makes Aroy Mak Thai Food Special
The khao man gai (Hainan chicken rice) represents their specialty with tender chicken that’s never dry paired with ginger rice and perfect sauces.
You can order the chicken grilled (gai yang) or fried (gai tod), both arriving with that crucial ginger rice, cucumber, winter melon soup, and sauces that complete the dish. The crispy fried chicken gets seasoned perfectly with the right amount of crunch, while the grilled version delivers different but equally satisfying flavors.
The portions are generous enough for two meals at prices that make this accessible for regular visits rather than special occasions only.
The Story Behind the Restaurant
The family brought recipes from Thailand that mom perfected over 40 years, opening first in West Seattle in 2021 before moving to this Greenwood location.
They serve authentic Thai street food rather than the adapted versions most American Thai restaurants offer – this means real flavors, traditional preparations, and dishes that taste like what you’d find in Thailand. The nostalgic Khmer oldies music playing adds to the authentic atmosphere.
The move from West Seattle to Greenwood in North Seattle gave them space to offer both takeaway and sit-down service while maintaining the quality that built their reputation.
Food Highlights
- Khao Man Gai Tod (Fried Chicken): The perfectly seasoned fried chicken with pineapple sauce over ginger rice delivers the right amount of crunch with tender meat underneath. 🍗
- Khao Man Gai (Hainan Chicken): The tender poached chicken with ginger rice, cucumber, winter melon soup, and sauces creates the signature dish that defines this restaurant. 🍚
- Combo Plate: Grilled and fried chicken with garlic rice gives you the best of both preparations in one generous portion. 🍽️
- Thai Yellow Curry: The monthly special showcases how the rotating menu keeps things interesting while maintaining authentic preparations. 🍛
- Simmered Ginger Rice: The standout side that gets specific praise for its flavor and how it complements the chicken dishes. 🌿
- Mango Sticky Rice Cup: The classic Thai dessert arrives with perfect texture and sweetness making it worth saving room for. 🥭
Atmosphere
The 14419 Greenwood Ave N location sits in a strip mall creating a casual environment where the focus stays on authentic food rather than fancy atmosphere.
The small space features nice decor with attention to detail that shows they care about the experience beyond just serving food quickly. The nostalgic Khmer oldies music creates ambiance that transports you rather than just filling silence.
Service stays friendly and efficient with staff who explain dishes and make recommendations based on your preferences. The BYOB option adds flexibility while keeping prices reasonable.
Bottom Line
Visit Aroy Mak Thai Food for over 40 years of family recipes where Hainan chicken rice represents authentic Thai street food done right.
The khao man gai tod, khao man gai, and combo plate showcase why this became a beloved West Seattle spot before moving to Greenwood. The Thai yellow curry, simmered ginger rice, and mango sticky rice prove the range from savory to sweet maintains family-recipe quality.
The strip mall location in North Seattle serves generous portions at affordable prices with BYOB options and that warm hospitality that makes this feel like eating at someone’s house who really knows how to cook. Order through DoorDash. 🌟
Address: Aroy Mak Thai Food
14419 Greenwood Ave N, Ste C, Seattle, WA 98133
Phone: (206) 361-9999
Hours: Tue-Sat: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Sun: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Mon: Closed
Features: 40+ years family recipes | Hainan chicken rice specialty | BYOB | Thai street food | Greenwood | Strip mall location