Are you ready to go on a tasty adventure in Ottawa? If so, you’re in the right spot! We're about to take a fun trip through the city to check out the best places to grab some Pad Thai and curry.
We’ve found 11 awesome Thai restaurants, each with its own special flavors of Thailand right here in Ottawa.
Ready to find your new favorite Thai dish? Let’s dive into these fantastic restaurants and see why everyone’s talking about them!
1. Khao Thai Restaurant
Khao Thai Restaurant is like a little piece of Thailand right in Ottawa. It's cozy and friendly, and the menu is full of traditional Thai dishes, which is why so many people love it.
The restaurant is part of a special program called Thai Select, meaning most of the food they serve tastes just like it would in Thailand, thanks to the amazing head chef, Ms. Nitaya Chiturai.
With over 40 years of cooking experience, she has created a menu that's not only varied but also really tasty.
Since it opened in 2004, Khao Thai has been a go-to spot for food lovers. Their goal is to give you a real Thai dining experience, complete with cool cocktails and a great selection of wines.
And you can't forget about the classic Pad Thai, which is a must-try for anyone who loves Thai food.
The atmosphere at Khao Thai is a nice mix of fancy and cozy. Beautiful Thai decorations make it feel special, and you can choose to sit inside or outside, making it a nice place to eat no matter the weather.
The staff is friendly and always ready to help you pick something delicious from the menu. People often mention how cool the dishes look, like the curries served in cute copper bowls that are kept warm with candles.
2. Siam Bistro
Located in Ottawa, Siam Bistro is a fantastic place for anyone craving real Thai food. This cozy restaurant is famous for its traditional Thai dishes, all made with care and served in a friendly environment.
As soon as you walk in, the Thai decorations make you feel like you've been transported to a peaceful setting, perfect for enjoying a meal with family or friends.
The menu at Siam Bistro is full of delicious options. You can kick things off with their crispy spring rolls, which you can get filled with shrimp or vegetables.
If you're looking for something heartier, definitely try the satay skewers and fish cakes. These tasty appetizers start at a reasonable price of CAD$4.95.
When it comes to main courses, Siam Bistro really shines. Their Pad Thai is super popular, combining sweet, salty, and tangy flavors in just the right way.
Siam Bistro also serves comforting soups like Tom Yum and Tom Kha, which are great. Their salads, like mixed seafood and Thai-style beef, add a nice, refreshing touch to your meal.
The service at Siam Bistro is just as great as the food. The friendly staff is always ready to help.
Since it's a popular spot with limited seating, making a reservation is a smart idea to ensure you get a table in this family-run restaurant.
3. Charm Thai Cuisine
If you're looking for a Thai restaurant that's as exciting as a surprise day off from school, you should definitely check out Charm Thai Cuisine.
It's located in a super convenient area with lots of parking, making it a great spot for anyone who wants to enjoy real Thai flavors without having to fly all the way to Bangkok.
Charm Thai Cuisine is known for its big portions and a variety of dishes that are full of flavor and spice.
The menu is like a top hits playlist for Thai food lovers, featuring favorites like the spicy Kra Praw Ground Beef and the zesty Tom Yum Noodles.
For those who are vegan or vegetarian, Charm Thai has some delicious options, like red curry with tofu and the flavorful Khao Soi. They also offer rice noodles for anyone who needs gluten-free meals, so everyone can enjoy the tasty Thai food.
If you’re not into super spicy food, don’t worry! You can enjoy dishes like Grilled Chicken and Kao Nah Kai, which are just as tasty.
And of course, you can’t go wrong with noodles—Pad See Ew and Pad Kee Maow are sure to hit the spot.
4. Wandee Thai Cuisine
Tucked away on Beech Street, Wandee Thai Cuisine is a little treasure in Ottawa that brings real Thai flavors right to your plate.
This family-owned restaurant is known for its tasty dishes and friendly service. Be it you're in the mood for a spicy curry or a classic Pad Thai, there’s something for everyone here.
The menu has a ton of choices. You might want to start with the Poh Pia Pak, which are crispy veggie spring rolls filled with glass noodles and mixed veggies, served with a sweet plum sauce.
If you want something warm, the Tom Yum Gai is a great pick. It’s a spicy and tangy soup with chicken, mushrooms, and a fragrant mix of lemongrass and lime leaves.
For curry fans, the Green Curry, or Gaeng Khiao Wan, is a definite must-try. You can pick your meat, and it’s packed with eggplant, bell peppers, and bamboo shoots simmered in spicy coconut milk.
People also love Wandee Thai for its fast service. They’re also great at catering to different dietary needs, so everyone can find something they like.
Wandee Thai focuses on using fresh ingredients, which makes every dish taste amazing. With its great prices, clean atmosphere, and welcoming vibe, it’s no wonder that Wandee Thai is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors in Ottawa.
5. Sweet Basil Restaurant
Sweet Basil Restaurant is like a little piece of Thailand in Ottawa. For more than 30 years, this cozy spot has been serving some of the tastiest and most authentic Thai food, making it a favorite among the city’s dining places.
When you walk in, you can smell the delicious Thai spices and see decorations that make you feel like you’re in Bangkok.
One of the best dishes on the menu is their Stuffed Chicken Wings, which you have to try if you want to experience real Thai flavors.
But there are also other great choices like Panaeng curry, Pad Thai, and Pad Bai Gra Prow that highlight the rich tastes of Thailand. If you want something light, the mango salad is really popular too.
They have vegan and vegetarian options, as well as meals that are halal, so there’s something for everyone.
But it’s not just the food that makes Sweet Basil special. The warm and friendly atmosphere and the attentive service make every visit enjoyable.
Since it’s a family-run restaurant, the owners are usually around, adding a personal touch that makes you feel at home.
And, it’s wheelchair accessible, so everyone can join in on the fun.
6. Phuket Royal
Located in the lively area of Ottawa's Chinatown, Phuket Royal is a special restaurant that takes you on a tasty adventure through Southeast Asia.
Since it opened in 2014, this family-run place has been serving a mix of delicious dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, China, and the Philippines, making it a great spot for anyone who wants to enjoy Asian food.
As soon as you walk into Phuket Royal, you’ll feel right at home because of its cozy and friendly vibe. The decorations are really nice and the restaurant is always clean, which customers appreciate.
Once you sit down, the friendly staff might offer you some free lemongrass tea to help you relax as you begin your meal.
One of the standout dishes on the menu is the Filipino Lechon, which is a whole roasted pork. It takes a bit of planning because you need to order it a week in advance, but it's definitely worth the wait!
Phuket Royal has a menu that offers something for everyone, If you’re vegan, need gluten-free options, or love meat, this place is for you. You can start your meal with appetizers like satay skewers and spring rolls.
There are also comforting soups like Tom Yum and Tom Kha. For the main course, you’ll find a feast of stir-fries, curries, and the popular Pad Thai.
With big portions, affordable prices, and a wide variety of options, everyone leaves Phuket Royal feeling happy.
7. Champa Thai Cuisine
Located at 193 King Edward Ave in Ottawa, Champa Thai Cuisine is a fantastic spot that serves up the delicious flavors of Southern Thailand.
This cozy, family-run restaurant is popular with locals in Centretown, Sandy Hill, and surrounding areas for its tasty and authentic dishes.
Champa Thai's menu is packed with options. You can try the rich Panang Curry or the tangy Tom Yum Soup—there's something for everyone.
Their Pad Thai and Yellow Curry Chicken are favorites that mix sweet, savory, and spicy flavors perfectly.
With main dishes priced between $15.50 and $18.95 and appetizers starting at just $4.95, you can enjoy a great meal without spending too much.
The vibe at Champa Thai is welcome and laid-back, with friendly staff who are happy to help with any dietary needs.
While they don’t take reservations, their warm service and generous portions make up for it. The restaurant isn't the easiest to get into for wheelchair users, but they do offer street parking, takeout, and dining inside.
8. Thai Lanna Cuisine
Located in the busy South Key area, Thai Lanna Cuisine brings the exciting tastes of Thailand to Ottawa.
You can find it easily at the corner of Bank and Hunt Club, making it a great place to dive into authentic Thai dishes.
If you're in the mood for real Thai food, Thai Lanna is the place to go. Their menu has a variety of options, from the classic Pad Thai noodles to three types of colorful curries—red, green, and yellow.
And if you like something a bit different, you can't miss their signature Mango salad, which mixes fresh ingredients with a zesty flavor. They also have choices for vegetarians and those who need gluten-free meals.
When you walk into Thai Lanna, you'll feel welcomed right away. The restaurant is small, with only 24 seats, but it has a cozy and laid-back atmosphere that's great for a casual bite to eat.
In addition to eating in, Thai Lanna also offers takeout and catering, making it easy for people on the go to enjoy their meals.
And, there's plenty of parking in the strip mall, so you can take your time checking out the menu.
9. Thai Coconut
In the middle of Ottawa, there’s a cozy little spot called Thai Coconut that’s perfect for anyone who loves Thai food.
This hidden gem is ideal for those who enjoy delicious curries, noodles, and rice dishes, and their menu has plenty of tasty choices for everyone.
If you’re looking for a starter, you have to try the Poa Pia Goong, which are shrimp spring rolls. They’re crispy and only cost $9.45, making them a great way to kick off your meal.
For the main course, the Sweet and Sour Chicken is a popular pick at $19.45, bursting with flavors that will make you feel like you’re in Thailand.
If you’re sharing a meal with a friend, the Combo for 2 is a fantastic option. It includes Vegetable Rolls, Beef with Basil and Vegetables, Light Curry Chicken with Potato, and Steamed Rice all for $39.50.
The restaurant has something for everyone, including meat and vegetarian dishes, plus they offer tofu for those who prefer it.
There are also gluten-free options, making it easy for anyone with dietary restrictions to find something they can enjoy. The staff is friendly and always ready to help if you have any special requests.
Thai Coconut has a nice atmosphere and quick service, which is why it's popular for both dining in and takeout. Their lunch buffet is a highlight, giving you a chance to try a little bit of everything at a great price.
10. Khao Yum Thai Restaurant
Located in the lovely community of Manotick, Ontario, Khao Yum Thai Restaurant is a great find for anyone looking for authentic Thai food and friendly service. As soon as you walk in, the cozy vibe makes you feel right at home.
With space for about 20-25 people, it's an ideal place for a chill lunch or dinner with family and friends.
Khao Yum is known for its tasty menu featuring favorites like Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Red Curry. Each dish is made with fresh ingredients, so you can expect bold flavors in every bite.
The servings are pretty big, so you won’t leave feeling hungry! If you’re into vegetarian or vegan dishes, they’ve got you covered with lots of options, and tofu is a popular choice.
The staff here are friendly and attentive, making sure you have a great experience.
If it’s a nice day, you might want to eat on their charming outdoor patio. Khao Yum is located in a busy shopping area, so it’s easy to find and enjoy a meal. And, parking is usually not a problem, making it simple to stop by whenever you want.
With its delicious food and welcome atmosphere, Khao Yum Thai Restaurant is a must-try for anyone in Ottawa wanting a taste of Thailand.
Just a heads up: this popular spot can get crowded, so it’s smart to make a reservation or get there early to snag a table.
11. Thai Flame Restaurant
Tucked away in a busy strip mall, Thai Flame Restaurant has been a favorite spot for people in Ottawa for over 13 years, thanks to its tasty and authentic Thai dishes.
At first, it might not look like much from the outside, but once you step in, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere where the decor and the staff make you feel right at home.
Thai Flame is famous for its huge menu, which has something for everyone. Many people also enjoy the Tom Kha soup with chicken and the crispy pork.
If you like things spicy, you can adjust the level of heat to match your taste. Plus, they offer free rice refills, which is a nice touch that keeps people coming back.
The restaurant is especially known for its big portions and combo meals that include egg rolls and chicken satay skewers—great for sharing with friends or family.
What really makes Thai Flame stand out is its amazing customer service, often led by the friendly owner who makes sure every visit is special.
It’s a place where families and friends can come together.
The restaurant is also wheelchair accessible and has parking available, making it easy for everyone to visit.
To Sum It All Up
Ottawa is full of amazing Thai food options, and this article takes you on a tasty journey through eleven great restaurants. These places were chosen because they mix traditional and modern Thai dishes, making them great for both people who are new to Thai food and those who know it well. Each restaurant puts its own spin on classic dishes like pad Thai and curry, so you’re sure to find something you love.
And if you're looking for more fun activities in Ottawa—or anywhere else—be sure to check out ActiviFinder Ottawa for new ideas.