Bethesda

Virginia’s Sense of Thai Opens First Maryland Restaurant

After months of anticipation, Sense of Thai has officially opened its first Maryland location at Westbard Square in Bethesda.

The new restaurant is located at 5314 Zenith Overlook, Suites #3 and #4, and brings the popular Northern Virginia-based concept across the Potomac for the first time.

Last October, we shared that permanent signage had been installed at the location as construction continued on the highly anticipated restaurant. At the time, Sense of Thai had not announced an opening date, but the restaurant has now quietly opened its doors to customers.

Sense of Thai first opened in Ashburn, Virginia, in 2015 and later expanded with a second location in Chantilly. The restaurant has built a loyal following for its authentic Southern Thai cuisine, upscale atmosphere, and extensive craft cocktail program.

The menu features a mix of traditional and modern dishes, including favorites such as Pad Thai, Crispy Whole Fish, Chili-Garlic Pig (pork belly), Braised Pork Ramen, and the restaurant’s signature Peking Duck Quesadilla.

According to the restaurant, its menu is inspired by the bold and spicy flavors of Southern Thailand, where Chef-Owner Porntipa Pattanamekar was born and raised. Southern Thai cuisine is known for its use of fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and robust spices that reflect the region’s diverse culinary influences.

Sense of Thai is located at 5314 Zenith Overlook in Bethesda and is currently open Sunday through Thursday from 11am to 10pm and Friday and Saturday from 11am to 11pm.

For Bethesda-area diners looking for a new destination for Thai cuisine, craft cocktails, and a modern dining experience, the wait is finally over.

Author