Vancouver is known for its vibrant food scene, with cuisine from all over the world represented in its many restaurants. One type of food that has gained particular popularity in recent years is Thai food, with its bold flavors, fragrant spices, and vibrant colors.
Finding delicious Thai food can be a challenge, with so many options to choose from. That's why we've created this guide to help you discover the best Thai food in Vancouver. We've scoured the city to find the top-rated Thai restaurants that serve authentic and delicious dishes, from classic Pad Thai and green curry to lesser-known dishes. So if you're a fan of Thai food or simply looking to explore new flavors, read on to discover the best Thai restaurants in Vancouver and satisfy your cravings for this delicious cuisine.
1. Sawasdee Thai Restaurant
Sawasdee Thai Restaurant, a vibrant culinary destination, has gained a loyal following of locals who crave the authentic flavors of Thailand.
What makes the restaurant a must-visit is their commitment to using fresh ingredients and traditional Thai cooking techniques. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a cozy dinner with friends or family.
If you're unsure about what to order, the chef recommends trying the Crying Tiger Beef. This tender, grilled beef dish is seasoned with an aromatic herb vinaigrette and pairs beautifully with their house-made hot sauce.
Location: Sawasdee Thai Restaurant - Google Maps
2. Kin Kao
Another standout choice for the best Thai food in Vancouver is Kin Kao, a contemporary restaurant that seamlessly blends traditional Thai flavors with a modern touch. Located in a bright, inviting space, they offer a delightful experience for those seeking to enjoy Thai cuisine in a stylish setting.
One of the must-try dishes there is their Crispy Fried Pork Belly. The light, crispy exterior of the pork belly is skillfully paired with a flavorful garlic dip, making it a dish you won't be able to resist.
Besides their fantastic food, Kin Kao also offers a variety of local craft beers to complement your meal. This extensive selection ensures that you'll find the perfect beverage to enhance the flavors of your chosen dish.
Location: Kin Kao - Google Maps
3. Song (by Kin Kao)
For those seeking a unique Thai dining experience in Vancouver, look no further than Song by Kin Kao. As a sister restaurant to the well-loved Kin Kao, Song's menu is inspired by experimental staff meals, late-night conversations, and travels throughout Thailand.
Offering authentic Thai dishes alongside an impressive selection of natural wines from around the globe, Song is a harmony of flavors that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The beverage program at Song doesn't end with wine; they also boast an array of one-of-a-kind cocktails, local craft beer, and cider for those who prefer a simpler approach.
Location: Song by Kin Kao - Google Maps
4. Sala Thai
Known for its delicious Central Thailand cuisine, this restaurant offers a perfect balance of the five main flavors characteristic of Thai food: spicy, sour, sweet, salty, and bitter. The chefs at Sala Thai have even served the Thai Royal Family, so you know you're in for a truly regal dining experience.
Sala Thai welcomes its guests with a warm and relaxed ambiance. The menu features classic Thai dishes, as well as unique house specials, ensuring that every palate can find something to enjoy.
One of the most notable aspects of the restaurant is the meticulous attention given to the preparation and presentation of each dish.
Location: Sala Thai - Google Maps
5. Maenam
Maenam is a must-visit destination. Awarded "Best Restaurant of the Year 2016" by Vancouver Magazine, this chic eatery is known for its innovative approach to traditional Thai dishes, using locally sourced ingredients and intense flavors.
Begin your meal with the unique Banana Blossom Salad, a rare delicacy not commonly found elsewhere. The chef's expert balance of varying sweetness levels in this dish makes it a must-try for all visitors.
For the main course, Maenam's signature Pad Thai is a must-try. This scrumptious dish boasts a harmonious blend of rich flavors, and the addition of tofu provides an extra layer of substance that elevates the dish to new heights.
Location: Maenam - Google Maps
6. Bob Likes Thai Food
Bob Likes Thai Food offering an array of authentic Thai dishes in a cozy, welcoming environment. With a homestyle atmosphere and mouthwatering menu, this restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy Thai food with friends and family.
Start your meal with the refreshing Papaya Salad, which boasts a zesty flavor and satisfying crunch. Another must-try appetizer is the Fish Cake with Cucumber Relish, a delightful combination of flavors.
A visit to Bob Likes Thai Food wouldn't be complete without trying their Green Curry Chicken. Served with fragrant jasmine rice, this slightly spicy dish is sure to hit all the right spots.
Location: Bob Likes Thai Food - Google Maps
7. Bai Bua Thai Cuisine
With an extensive range of gluten-free and vegan options, Bai Bua ensures that everyone can enjoy their culinary creations.
Kick off your meal with their scrumptious Spring Rolls, one of the restaurant's most popular appetizers. These crispy, flavorful bites are the perfect way to whet your appetite for the main event.
For the main course, the Pad Thai Chicken at Bai Bua is a crowd favorite. Expertly balancing spices and served with a tangy tamarind sauce, this dish is a delightful fusion of sweet and sour flavors that will have you coming back for more.
Location: Bai Bua Thai Cuisine- Google Maps
8. Unchai Restaurant
Unchai Restaurant may be small in size, but it has made a big impact on Vancouver's Thai food scene, thanks to its unique dishes crafted by an experienced chef who has honed his skills in various parts of the world.
Begin your culinary adventure with the delectable Fried Chicken Wings, which boast a nutty flavor and are served with a mouthwatering dip.
For your entree, the Shrimps Pad Thai is a must-try. Prepared in wok hay, this dish showcases a harmonious blend of ingredients, resulting in an irresistible meal that you won't soon forget.
Location: Unchai Restaurant- Google Maps
9. Thai Away Home
This popular eatery has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike, thanks to its mouthwatering dishes, generous portions, and reasonable prices.
If you're a Pad Thai enthusiast, you'll be delighted to know that Thai Away Home is well-known for its exceptional version of this classic dish. But don't hesitate to explore the rest of their menu, as there are plenty of other delicious options worth trying.
One of the reasons why customers rave about the authenticity of the restaurant’s offerings is their attention to detail. For instance, they serve chili flakes and crushed peanuts on the side of their Pad Thai, ensuring that you can customize the dish to your liking.
Location: Thai Away Home - Google Maps
10. Thailicious Cuisine At Door
This unassuming restaurant offers a familiar Thai menu that includes everything from noodles to curries. What sets Thailicious apart, though, is their unique spin on some classic dishes and their commitment to authentic flavors.
One standout offering at Thailicious is their Smoked Duck Salad. The tender, juicy duck breast is infused with a delightful smoky flavor that makes them unique to other Thai salads you may have tried.
Not only are the portions generous at Thailicious, but they also offer a great gradation in spice levels, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect level of heat to suit their taste buds. Whether you prefer mild, moderate, or very spicy dishes, you can expect a flavorful experience every time.
Location: Thailicious Cuisine At Door - Google Maps
11. Baan Wasana Thai Restaurant
Baan Wasana Thai Restaurant, located in Vancouver, offers an authentic and warm dining experience that makes every guest feel right at home.
The chef there focuses on maintaining the perfect balance of the four key flavors in Thai cuisine: sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
Location: Baan Wasana Thai Restaurant - Google Maps
12. Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine
Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine offers an exquisite culinary adventure, featuring organic ingredients and Royal Thai cuisine.
The Taste of Baan Lao multi-course tasting menu presents a unique gastronomic journey through Thailand, showcasing Royal Thai twists on dishes that might be unfamiliar to some. Signature dinner experiences include Chef Nutcha's own Phat Thai and Wild Sockeye Salmon with Green Curry Sauce.
The restaurant's stunning setting, featuring glass garage doors overlooking Steveston's waterfront and captivating artwork created by one of only two elephants in the world capable of painting, adds to the unique atmosphere.
Location: Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine - Google Maps
13. Bangkok City Cafe
Bangkok City Cafe offers an authentic taste of Thailand in Vancouver, with its contemporary atmosphere, delectable dishes, and warm, friendly staff.
For salad lovers, the Som Tum Salad is an essential starter. This delightful dish features thinly sliced papaya, juicy tomatoes, and freshly roasted peanuts, making it a best-seller and a true testament to the restaurant's culinary expertise.
The Barbeque Chicken is another popular choice, skillfully cooked in Bangkok City Cafe's signature Thai sauce and served with a tangy, flavor-enhancing sauce. This succulent dish will make you feel as if you're dining in the heart of Bangkok.
Location: Bangkok City Cafe - Google Maps
14. Zab Zaab Thai Cuisine
Offering an enticing menu and a cozy atmosphere that locals love. With a range of delectable options, from stir-fried vegetables to the classic Pad Thai, the chefs at Zab Zaab have mastered the art of Thai cuisine.
Begin your meal with a warm, comforting bowl of Tom Kha, a traditional Thai soup bursting with the rich flavors of coconut and invigorating lemongrass.
Be sure to try the crowd-favorite Green Curry Chicken, which consistently delights diners with its creamy coconut sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables. This dish offers the perfect balance of flavor and texture that has earned it a well-deserved reputation as a best-seller.
Location: Zab Zaab Thai Cuisine - Google Maps
To Sum It All Up
Vancouver is home to an incredible array of Thai restaurants, each offering a unique and tantalizing culinary experience. From the award-winning Maenam to the cozy atmosphere of Bob Likes Thai Food, and the upscale dining experience at Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine, there is something for every Thai food lover to enjoy!
Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of Tom Kha soup or seeking an adventurous plate of silkworm, these establishments cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. With options for gluten-free, vegan, and traditional Thai dishes, you're sure to find the perfect meal to satisfy your cravings.