Holy Basil is relocating from its original location in Downtown Los Angeles to a former restaurant space in the Arts District at 704 Mateo St.
The restaurant will move into the former home of Guerrilla Tacos, according to Eater Los Angeles. The move marks a major shift for the Thai street food concept, originally located on the first floor of the Santee Court Apartments at 718 S Los Angeles St, Space A. The current location will remain open until the new Arts District space is ready, with the move expected to be completed sometime in Fall 2025. The updated space will allow for a broader menu and the addition of a beverage program led by co-owner Tongkamal “Joy” Yuon.
The relocation comes as chef and co-owner Wedchayan “Deau” Arpapornnopparat also prepares to open Yhing Yhang BBQ, a new Thai barbecue concept previously announced by What Now Los Angeles in February. The restaurant is set to debut inside Maydan Market at 4301 W Jefferson Boulevard in West Adams, which is expected to open in the coming months.
Yhing Yhang BBQ will focus on grilled meats, including duck, beef short ribs, and pork, as well as dishes like garlic egg noodles, fried prawn balls, and banana strips. Inspired by traditional Thai barbecue and influenced by Texas-style techniques, the concept will offer both dine-in and takeaway options. The menu is designed to complement the hearth at the center of Maydan Market, where the restaurant will be located.
In addition to the move and the new barbecue venture, Arpapornnopparat and Yuon are moving forward with a previously announced Holy Basil location in Santa Monica. The new restaurant is expected to open at the end of July at 2828 Santa Monica Blvd, occupying the ground floor of The Charlie, a residential development with 50 units.