Top-Rated Authentic Thai Restaurants in Houston

The Best Thai Restaurants Near You in Houston

Thai cuisine is beloved for its vibrant, complex flavors and aromatic dishes. If you're craving authentic Thai food, Houston has no shortage of excellent restaurants to choose from. Here's a look at some of the top-rated Thai restaurants in Houston and what makes them stand out.

Street to Kitchen - A Hidden Gem with Rave Reviews

Tucked away in a strip mall along Bellaire Boulevard, Street to Kitchen is easy to miss if you don't know what you're looking for. But this unassuming restaurant in Chinatown has earned rave reviews from diners seeking authentic Thai flavors. Street to Kitchen was recently ranked the third best restaurant in Houston by CultureMap's Tastemaker Awards.

The husband and wife owners prepare family recipes with high quality ingredients like fresh herbs, chili peppers, and proteins like chicken, pork, and seafood. Popular dishes include pad thai, panang curry, tom yum soup, and papaya salad. Street to Kitchen also offers an array of Thai street food like grilled skewers, wings, and Thai rolled ice cream.

Reviewers on Yelp praise the "hidden gem" for its affordability, attentive service, and intensely flavored dishes that keep them coming back again and again. If you're searching for the best Thai food near me in Houston, Street to Kitchen is certainly worth a visit.

Nidda Thai Cuisine - A Local Favorite

For over 20 years, Nidda Thai Cuisine has been a go-to for Houstonians craving authentic Thai food. Located in the Heights, this casual restaurant offers an extensive menu of Thai staples along with chef's specialties.

Some standouts include the crab fried rice, green curry, pad see ew noodles, and fresh mango sticky rice for dessert. Nidda Thai also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Reviewers praise the friendly service and big portions at reasonable prices.

Nidda Thai has earned a loyal following of locals who flock here for the comforting, homemade flavors. The dining room fills up fast so be prepared to wait during peak times. But reviewers say it's worth it for dishes that taste just as good as street food in Thailand.

Street Food Thai Market - Authentic Flavors and Decor

For an immersive Thai dining experience, check out Street Food Thai Market near Memorial Park. The colorful restaurant is decorated like an open-air market in Thailand, with street signs, banners, and Thai street art on the walls.

The extensive menu covers all the Thai favorites from curries to noodles to grilled meats. Standouts include the Thai fried chicken, crispy wontons, pineapple fried rice, and ginger stir fry. There are also many vegetarian and gluten-free options. The lunch combos are a popular way to sample a variety of dishes.

Reviewers say Street Food Thai Market serves up incredibly authentic and fresh Thai cuisine in a fun, lively atmosphere. It's a great spot for a casual meal before exploring Memorial Park and the rest of the neighborhood.

Asia Market Thai Lao Food - Hidden Takeout Gem

Tucked away in a nondescript strip mall, Asia Market Thai & Lao Food is a beloved spot for takeout and delivery. They serve up freshly prepared Thai classics like pad thai, curry dishes, stir fries, and more. Menu standouts include the crab fried rice, eggplant stir fry, and Thai ice tea.

While the dining room is small, reviewers say the food is worth calling ahead for takeout or delivery. The family-owned spot offers big portions of dishes that strike the perfect balance of flavors. They also have a great selection of hard to find Thai groceries and products.

For an under the radar spot with authentic Thai flavors, Asia Market Thai & Lao Food is a great option. Reviewers say their excellent food and low-key vibe keep them coming back.

Kin Dee Thai Cuisine - Elegant Spot for a Special Occasion

With its elegant dining room, attentive service, and extensive wine list, Kin Dee Thai Cuisine is a favorite for special occasions and date nights. The upscale restaurant serves expertly crafted dishes that combine traditional Thai ingredients with modern techniques.

Some standouts on the menu include the chilled lemongrass soup, chili glazed ribs, whole fried snapper, and papaya salad. There are also many vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Signature cocktails like the lychee martini complement the cuisine.

Reviewers rave about the culinary artistry of the dishes and award-winning service. While the prices are higher than most Thai restaurants, diners say the exquisite food and atmosphere make it worthwhile for a special night out.

Rainbow Thai Cuisine - Wide Variety in Chinatown

Located along Bellaire Boulevard in the heart of Chinatown, Rainbow Thai offers a huge selection of Thai favorites from curries to noodles to fried rice. The menu has over 100 dishes including many vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Standouts include the pad Thai, crispy garlic chicken, tom kha coconut soup, and fresh mango sticky rice. And everything on the menu can be customized to your preferred level of spiciness.

Rainbow Thai has earned a following for its variety, freshness, and affordable prices. Reviewers also praise the friendly, efficient service. Whether dining in or taking out, it's a solid choice when you're searching Thai restaurants near me in Houston.

The Key to Finding Great Thai Food in Houston

Houston is home to so many outstanding Thai restaurants serving incredibly authentic and flavorful cuisine. From casual noodle shops to upscale eateries, these spots truly capture the flavors and spirit of Thailand.

To find the best Thai food near you in Houston, look for restaurants that source high quality ingredients and prepare family recipes. Check out reviews and photos to get a feel for the different options. Many hidden gems are tucked away in Chinatown and other neighborhoods.

The restaurants featured here have earned loyal followings for their culinary artistry and depth of flavor. They balance complex seasoning with fresh, bright ingredients in dishes that delight the senses. Any one of these spots will satisfy your cravings for an amazing Thai meal.

FAQs

What are some popular Thai dishes I should try in Houston?

Some classic Thai dishes to try in Houston include pad thai, tom yum soup, green curry, papaya salad, and mango sticky rice. Thai fried rice and a variety of noodle dishes are also very popular.

What should I know about ordering Thai food as a vegan/vegetarian?

Many Thai restaurants in Houston offer a variety of vegan and vegetarian menu options. Be sure to ask about vegan/vegetarian modifications for dishes containing fish sauce or other animal products. Most places are very accommodating.

What are the price ranges like at Houston Thai restaurants?

There are budget-friendly options with entrees below $10 as well as higher end restaurants with dishes around $20-30. The average mid-range Thai restaurant in Houston has entrees from $12-15.

What should I look for in an authentic Thai restaurant?

Signs of an authentic Thai restaurant include a Thai chef, freshly prepared dishes with quality ingredients, specialty Thai drinks like Thai iced tea, and decor that reflects Thai culture.

Are there any good Thai restaurants near me in the suburbs?

Yes, there are excellent Thai restaurants throughout Houston's suburbs like Sugar Land, Katy, The Woodlands, Cypress, and more. Check reviews to find great Thai food wherever you are in the metro area.