Mai Thai Asian restaurant opens in return to downtown Boise

When Boise’s Union Block building was condemned because of structural concerns in 2023, Mai Thai restaurant found itself homeless.

So the downtown Asian staple moved into a ghost kitchen 13 miles away in Meridian.

But Mai Thai recently exited that location and returned to Boise, opening last week in another ghost kitchen — at West End Food Co , 1744 W. Main St.

Eventually, owner-operator Billy Pothikamjorn still hopes to revive Mai Thai as a traditional seated restaurant somewhere. But for now, he’s focusing on takeout, delivery and catering. There is no seating at West End, with the exception of a few tables outside.

Mai Thai’s familiar menu should tempt regulars who visited the restaurant during its 20 years as a downtown favorite on Idaho Street.

Customers can order by phone at