Los Angeles' Thai Town Evolves Through the Years

Southern California is home to the highest population of Thais outside of Thailand, and while Los Angeles might have a Spanish name, Bangkok’s Thai name also translates to “city of angels.” Coincidence? Perhaps, but it’s no accident that L.A. is home to America’s only designated Thai Town, a six-block zone in East Hollywood that boasts more than 60 Thai-owned businesses, primarily restaurants.

Thai Migration

“When the first wave of Thai immigrants in...