Image: Serious cabbage.
Last Updated: November 2025
Overview:
Bird Song looks like a generic restaurant at the top of Connecticut, but it is more than that. Even if it is aimed at locals, it is worth flagging for those who are coming from beyond walking distance. And, it should be noted, it is a hit among the locals. So, some planning might be required to snag a reservation. The cuisine is Thai, with a relatively focused menu. What it lacks in familiar standards (no pad Thai or generic curries), it makes up for with fun derives from a family kitchen. It was Chef Kitima Boonmala’s mother’s recipe for boat noodle soup from the restaurant they operated in the city of Ayutthaya that got her started with a pop-up that led to this place.
Khao Soi of noodles in coconut sauce (we got it with shrimp, but other options including vegan are available), prompted a friend to eat all the noodles and then slurp up the broth without remorse. The revelation for us was the cabbage in red curry sauce that was creamy and just a hint of spice. Single-bite dumplings are at the top of the menu and an excellent way to start. It is a pleasure to have dishes that allow the chef to play with different flavor elements and allow them to shine. A gesture to her roots is Ayutthaya chicken noodle soup.
The desserts are from Naomi Gallego, who works up the street at Little Beast. They are thoroughly enjoyable like the Thai tea choux craquelin with dense creamy filling and a thick encasement in choux pastry.
Care has been put into the cocktail program to incorporate Thai spices as well as good N/A options. The wine list is all under $80, and still manages to not be too obvious in sourcing.
An outdoor patio in the front is covered but not enclosed. On our first visit over the summer, not far from us on the patio was a couple, sharing a bottle of white over a few bites, while their dog lounged in the shade, and the sun set behind the building across the street. The scene of simple pleasures and implied sophistication indicated that Birdsong had found its audience.
Other Guidance: Located at street level and all on one floor. GF and vegetarians can do well.
Summary:
Cuisine: Thai
Neighborhood: Upper NW
Address: 5507 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20015
Website: https://www.birdsongthai.com/
Reservations: Toast on Restaurant Website
Other Critics/Voices:
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