Austin’s food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself, and when it comes to cravings for bold flavors and aromatic spices, Thai cuisine stands out. We’ve embarked on a delicious journey across Austin to uncover the very best Thai food spots the city has to offer. From comforting Pad Thai to fiery curries and flavorful noodle dishes, we’ve tasted it all to bring you this curated guide to satisfy your Thai food desires in Austin.
Top Thai Restaurants in Austin You Can’t Miss
Our quest for the Best Thai Food In Austin led us to a variety of incredible establishments, each with its own unique charm and culinary strengths. Here are some of our top picks:
Kiin Di
Address: 1091 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX
Kiin Di is a standout food truck on the Austin Thai food scene, celebrated for its authentic Thai flavors and traditional cooking techniques. As a female and Asian-owned business, Kiin Di brings a unique and passionate approach to Thai cuisine. Everything is made fresh daily, contributing to the consistently high praise it receives as some of the best Thai food many have ever tasted. Don’t miss their signature Killer Noodles, a spicy ramen noodle dish packed with garlic, basil, onions, Thai chili peppers, and savory fried pork belly, all topped with a perfectly fried egg. For a unique fusion, try the Thai Me Down taco, featuring Thai-style fried chicken with refreshing pickled cucumbers, cilantro, red jalapeno peppers, and a spicy Thai aioli. Find Kiin Di serving up these delights on South Lamar, right outside Corner Bar, from Wednesday to Sunday evenings.
Thai Fresh
Address: 909 W Mary St, Austin, TX 78704
Thai Fresh is a beloved local gem that prioritizes simplicity and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their menu showcases authentic Thai meals prepared with Texas-raised proteins and seasonal vegetables and herbs sourced from local farms, and even their own garden. For those wanting to deepen their culinary skills, Thai Fresh offers cooking classes for all levels, providing hands-on experience in creating various Thai dishes, including the ever-popular green curry. To complete your Thai Fresh experience, indulge in their homemade vegan ice cream, crafted with coconut milk and seasonal fruits, perfectly paired with traditional sweet sticky rice.
Titaya’s Thai Cuisine
Address: 5501 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
Titaya’s Thai Cuisine has earned its classic status in Austin through consistent quality and a welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant boasts a modern and stylish interior, featuring intimate low lighting and sleek wooden benches, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable dining environment. Located conveniently on North Lamar Boulevard, Titaya’s offers an extensive and flavorful menu, including a particularly impressive dessert selection. As a must-try appetizer, Mom’s Fish Cakes are highly recommended. The perfectly balanced dipping sauce, a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, truly highlights the kitchen’s culinary expertise and attention to detail.
Tuk Tuk Thai Cafe
Address: 5517 Manchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78745
Tuk Tuk Thai Cafe, situated in South Austin, is a family-owned and operated restaurant with a rich culinary heritage spanning three generations. Start your meal with their generously filled Crab Rangoons, packed with crab meat, cream cheese, and green onion, or marvel at the size and flavor of their steamed dumplings. Another highly recommended dish is the Tom Kha Gai, their signature Thai coconut soup, enriched with fragrant lemongrass notes. Tuk Tuk Thai Cafe offers a casual and friendly dining experience with generous portions and beautifully plated dishes, reflecting the family’s pride in their food.
Thai Kreufha
Address: 1158 Lost Creek Blvd, Austin, TX 78746
For those in the Westlake area, Thai Kreufha offers a reliably delicious Thai dining option. They are particularly known for their Pad Thai, which strikes a perfect balance of sweetness and subtle heat, and uniquely incorporates cabbage instead of traditional sprouts, a crowd-pleasing twist. Another menu highlight is the crispy jasmine rice balls, deep-fried and seasoned, served with red curry, coconut, and herbs – a flavorful and texturally satisfying dish.
Super Thai Cuisine
Address: 2024 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
Super Thai Cuisine, locally owned and operated on South Lamar, presents a diverse menu of authentic Thai dishes. Popular choices include their flavorful Crab Fried Rice, homemade chili paste, and Pad Kee Mao loaded with organic vegetables and a sauce bursting with flavor and spice. For dessert, consider the Crispy Roti, topped with sweetened condensed milk and cocoa powder, a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.
Thai Cuisine
Address: 4101 West Parmer Ln, Suite F, Austin, TX 78727
Located in North Austin, just off Mopac and Parmer, Thai Cuisine has been serving casual yet delicious Thai food since 2009. They emphasize fresh, locally sourced produce and ingredients, and a standout dish is their Panang curry, made with homemade coconut cream. Seafood lovers will enjoy the deep-fried tilapia filet with ginger sauce or Thai sweet and sour sauce, and for a truly immersive Thai seafood experience, the stir-fried seafood platter, featuring notably large mussels, is a must-try.
Pad Thai Cuisine
Address: 3208 Guadalupe St Ste A, Austin, TX 78705
Pad Thai Cuisine, situated north of the Drag near the UT campus, offers traditional Thai food with a focus on locally grown herbs and spices. Known for its generous portions and affordable prices, it’s a popular spot for students and locals alike. While their menu is extensive, featuring soups, stir-fries, and vegetarian options, their Pad Thai is a signature dish. Be warned, their spice levels are not for the faint of heart – “spicy” truly means spicy, making it ideal for those who crave intense heat. With friendly service and a renowned Pad Thai, this restaurant is a consistently enjoyable choice.
Deckhand Oyster Bar
Address: 701 W. Louis Henna Blvd, Austin, TX 78728
Deckhand Oyster Bar might seem like an unexpected place to find top-notch Thai food, but this unique spot, established in 2010 by Thai and Laotian owners, successfully blends Gulf Coast seafood with traditional Asian flavors. This moderately priced and family-friendly restaurant showcases Thai influences throughout its menu, evident in dishes ranging from Mussels Vin Blanc to the flavorful papaya seafood salad. It’s a testament to Austin’s eclectic food scene where unexpected combinations can lead to delicious discoveries.
888 Pan Asian
Address: 2400 E Oltorf St, Austin, TX 78741
888 Pan Asian defies the notion that broad menus equate to diluted quality. This bustling South Austin restaurant impressively executes a variety of regional cuisines, with their Thai offerings being a particular highlight. Despite its popularity and frequent crowds, the wait at 888 Pan Asian is usually manageable, and the lively atmosphere is perfect for groups. Whether you’re in the mood for noodles, curry, or the classic mango sticky rice, 888’s extensive menu is sure to have something to satisfy. Arrive hungry, as they are known for their generous portion sizes.
Even More Thai Food Destinations in Austin:
For even more exploration of Austin’s Thai food scene, consider these additional highly-rated spots:
- Thai Kitchen: 3009 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78705
- Wat Zab Thai Food: 5000 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78756
- Spicy Boys Fried Chicken: Various Locations
- Dee Dee’s Thai Cuisine: 4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78745
- Sway Thai: 3437 Bee Cave Rd, Austin, TX 78746
- Thai Kun: 11601 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758
- Madam Mam’s: Various Locations
- Sap’s: 4514 West Gate Blvd, Austin, TX 78745
- Coat & Thai: 1720 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Austin’s Thai food scene is rich and diverse, offering everything from traditional dishes to innovative fusions. Whether you are a spice enthusiast or prefer milder flavors, you’re sure to find your new favorite Thai restaurant in this list. So, get ready to explore the best Thai food Austin has to offer and embark on a flavorful adventure!
