Brisbane's restaurant scene has emerged as one of the strongest in the country in recent years. And one cuisine that the city consistently excels at in particular is Thai food.
As a former Brisbane local, I can say with confidence that some of Australia's best massaman curry, pad see ew and tom kha gai can be found across the city. Whether you're after an unassuming neighbourhood favourite or a buzzing restaurant worth crossing the Story Bridge for, you're spoilt for choice in Brisbane.
Admittedly, a local Thai restaurant is something I find most people are fiercely loyal about – few want to stray from what's been tried and tested. But when my childhood favourite (That Thai on Racecourse road, for anyone wondering) closed down, I was forced to venture out. A sad occasion, but one that thrust me into Brisbane's Thai food scene – and boy am I glad it did.
My guide to the best Thai restaurants in Brisbane, below.
Thai Naramit, Hendra
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A northside favourite for more than a decade, Thai Naramit has earned a loyal following for its authentic Thai cuisine and warm hospitality. While you'll find all the classics on the menu, the red duck curry, soft-shell crab and signature beef salad are worth seeking out. If you're after consistently excellent Thai food in Brisbane, this is a reliable choice.
Siam Pagoda, Clayfield
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Siam Pagoda is one of those restaurants locals almost hesitate to recommend for fear of it becoming too popular (myself included). The menu champions traditional Thai flavours, with fragrant curries, wok-fried noodles and standout seafood dishes. The Pad Thai here is among the best I've tried in Brisbane (and I don't say that lightly).
Same Same, Fortitude Valley
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One of Brisbane's most popular modern Thai restaurants (brought to you by hospitality group Anyday), Same Same brings bold flavours and sleek interiors together under one roof, just off James Street. Expect inventive takes on Thai classics – which are best shared amongst friends (and great for a long lunch) – and vibey cocktails to match.
Short Grain, Fortitude Valley
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Short Grain puts a contemporary spin on Southeast Asian cuisine, drawing heavily on Thai flavours, and combining them with seasonal Australian produce. The menu is designed for sharing, and they also have a set curry menu on Sundays, served with a betel leaf entrée, curry or rice, and a cucumber salad.
Thai Soho, Keperra
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Thai Soho is probably best described as fuss-free, and reliably delicious. The menu is packed with good curries, stir-fries and noodle dishes, making it an easy choice whether you're dining in or picking up a mid-week takeaway.
Mons Thai, Camp Hill
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Mons Ban Sabai is proof you can find exceptional Thai food in every pocket of Brisbane. This Camp Hill favourite is known for its generous serves, bold flavours and relaxed atmosphere. The owner, Swiss-chef Raymund Venzin, also runs a cooking school within the restaurant, for those looking to hone their own skills.
Boo's Kitchen, Woolloongabba
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Small in size but big on flavour, Boo's Kitchen has become one of Brisbane's favourite spots for authentic Thai food. The menu is packed with traditional dishes, but it's the rich curries and much-loved pad Thai that keep me coming back. If you need further convincing, it was awarded the best Thai in Brisbane by the Australian Good Food Guide.
Doodee Boran, CBD
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Hidden down a laneway, Doodee Boran does comforting Thai food, really well. It's the kind of place that's almost always buzzing (so don't be afraid of a line), thanks to generous portions full of punchy flavours.
Lek’s Thai Pop Up Kitchen, Paddington
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In the evenings, Paddington Social turns into a bustling Thai restaurant. Everything here is designed to be shared, and they're also fully licensed, so it's a great place to come with a group. My pick is the red roasted duck curry, which is packed fully of coconut and herby goodness.
Phat Boy, CBD
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Phat Boy brings the energy of Bangkok's street food scene into the heart of the CBD. The menu spans everything you'd expect from a great Thai restaurant, from fragrant curries and stir fries. The vibrant dining room matches the food, making it just as suited to a midweek lunch as it is to a lively dinner with friends.
