The vibrant aromas of lemongrass, ginger, and chili fill the air, promising a sensory explosion. From the creamy richness of green curry to the tangy sweetness of Pad Thai, Thai food offers a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Craving an authentic Thai experience right here in Calgary? You’re in luck! Calgary’s diverse culinary landscape boasts a thriving Thai food scene, offering everything from cozy family-run restaurants to upscale dining destinations. But with so many options, where do you begin your culinary journey?
Thai cuisine is renowned for its intricate balance of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and umami. This harmonious blend of flavors, achieved through the use of fresh herbs, fragrant spices, and quality ingredients, creates a truly unforgettable dining experience. Popular dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry, Tom Yum soup, and Mango Sticky Rice have captured the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers worldwide.
Calgary, with its multicultural population and adventurous palate, has embraced Thai cuisine with open arms. The city offers a remarkable range of Thai restaurants, each with its own unique character and specialties. Whether you’re seeking a quick and affordable lunch, a romantic dinner, or a flavorful takeout option, Calgary’s Thai food scene has something to satisfy every craving.
This article will guide you through some of the best Thai restaurants in Calgary, offering a curated selection of establishments that exemplify authentic flavors, exceptional service, and memorable dining experiences. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and discover the hidden gems that make Calgary’s Thai food scene so special.
Fine Dining Thai: An Elevated Experience
For those seeking a sophisticated and refined Thai dining experience, Calgary offers several restaurants that elevate traditional dishes to new heights. These establishments often feature elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and creative culinary presentations.
Consider venturing to Thai Fine Dining, located in the heart of downtown. The restaurant boasts a sleek and modern interior, creating a chic and sophisticated atmosphere. Their menu showcases classic Thai dishes prepared with premium ingredients and artistic flair. Their Massaman Curry is a standout, featuring tender slow-cooked beef, potatoes, peanuts, and a rich, complex sauce that is both comforting and exotic. Another must-try is their Pla Nueng Manow, a steamed whole fish with a tangy and spicy lime sauce that bursts with flavor. The price point here is higher than average, but the quality of the food and the overall experience make it well worth the splurge. They also offer a curated wine list to complement your meal, ensuring a truly memorable evening. To make it more convenient for their customers, they have also recently started offering takeout services.
Another excellent choice for fine dining is Siam Calgary, renowned for its authentic Thai flavors and exquisite presentation. The restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, with traditional Thai décor and attentive service. Their signature dish is the Gaeng Keow Wan Gai, a vibrant green curry with chicken, bamboo shoots, eggplant, and basil, simmered in a creamy coconut milk broth. The dish is bursting with fresh flavors and a subtle kick of spice. They also offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. Their pineapple fried rice served in a hollowed-out pineapple is both aesthetically pleasing and incredibly flavorful. Siam Calgary is committed to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, supporting local farmers and ensuring the freshest possible flavors.
Casual Thai: Quick, Delicious, and Affordable
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and affordable Thai meal, Calgary has plenty of casual restaurants that deliver authentic flavors without breaking the bank. These establishments are perfect for a lunchtime craving or a casual dinner with friends.
Thai Express Lane is a popular choice for those seeking a fast and flavorful Thai experience. Located in a bustling shopping center, this restaurant offers a wide selection of classic Thai dishes at reasonable prices. Their Pad See Ew, stir-fried noodles with Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein, is a crowd favorite. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the sauce is both savory and slightly sweet. They also offer a variety of Thai curries, including red curry, green curry, and yellow curry, all served with fragrant jasmine rice. With its efficient service and budget-friendly prices, Thai Express Lane is a great option for a quick and satisfying Thai meal.
For a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting Bangkok Bites, a family-run restaurant that specializes in authentic Thai street food. This cozy establishment is known for its generous portions, friendly service, and flavorful dishes. Their Tom Kha Gai soup, a creamy coconut soup with chicken, galangal, lemongrass, and mushrooms, is a must-try. The soup is incredibly aromatic and comforting, perfect for a chilly day. They also offer a variety of noodle dishes, stir-fries, and curries, all prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic Thai spices.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites: Discovering Authentic Flavors
Beyond the well-known establishments, Calgary is home to several hidden gems that offer a more authentic and intimate Thai dining experience. These family-run restaurants often feature unique regional specialties and traditional cooking methods.
Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, Little Siam is a small but mighty Thai restaurant that has been serving up authentic flavors for over twenty years. This unassuming establishment is a favorite among locals, who rave about its flavorful dishes and warm hospitality. Their Massaman Nuea, a rich and aromatic beef curry with potatoes, onions, and peanuts, is a standout. The beef is incredibly tender, and the curry sauce is bursting with complex flavors. They also offer a selection of lesser-known Thai dishes, such as Khao Soi, a Northern Thai noodle soup with crispy egg noodles and a rich coconut curry broth. Little Siam is a true hidden gem that offers a taste of authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy and welcoming setting. They also don’t shy away from the spice, so make sure you tell them if you want it mild!
Another gem that should be mentioned is Sukothai Kitchen. This location prides itself on its use of fresh ingredients sourced from local markets. The dishes are prepared with traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a great spot for both casual dining and special occasions. Their Pad Kra Pao, featuring stir-fried ground meat with Thai basil, chilies, and a fried egg, is a favorite among regulars.
Takeout & Delivery: Thai Food at Your Doorstep
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key. Luckily, many of Calgary’s Thai restaurants offer takeout and delivery services, allowing you to enjoy your favorite Thai dishes from the comfort of your own home.
Almost all the restaurant that have been mentioned offer takeout and delivery but one of the most popular ones is Thai Me Up. Known for its quick service and extensive menu, Thai Me Up offers a seamless online ordering experience and efficient delivery service. Their Pad Thai is a classic choice, featuring stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp, chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. They also offer a variety of curries, soups, and salads, all available for takeout or delivery. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a family dinner, Thai Me Up makes it easy to enjoy delicious Thai food without leaving your home.
Another great option for delivery is Thai On Delivery. As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in takeout and delivery, offering a wide selection of Thai dishes at affordable prices. Their green curry with vegetables and tofu is very popular and often ordered dish. It’s creamy, flavourful, and packed with fresh vegetables. They offer a number of promotional bundles for their customers, which is an excellent way for customers to be able to sample more varieties of their dishes in one order.
Tips for Ordering Calgary Thai Food
Navigating the world of Thai cuisine can be a bit daunting, especially when it comes to spice levels. Here are a few tips to help you order with confidence.
Spice levels in Thai food can vary significantly from restaurant to restaurant. It’s always a good idea to ask the staff about the spice level of a particular dish before ordering. Most restaurants use a scale of mild, medium, and hot, but some may offer more specific options. Don’t be afraid to specify your preference. If you’re unsure, start with mild and ask for extra chili on the side.
If you have any dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, be sure to inform the restaurant staff. Most Thai restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary needs. Many dishes can be easily modified to be vegetarian or vegan by substituting tofu or vegetables for meat. Gluten-free options are also available, but it’s important to inquire about the ingredients used in sauces and seasonings.
The best way to discover new and exciting Thai dishes is to ask for recommendations from the restaurant staff. They can provide insights into regional specialties, hidden gems, and popular dishes that you might not find on the menu.
Thai cuisine varies significantly by region. Northern Thai cuisine, for example, is known for its creamy coconut curries and noodle soups, while Southern Thai cuisine is characterized by its spicy seafood dishes and use of turmeric. Don’t be afraid to explore different regional variations and discover new flavors.
Calgary’s Thai food scene is a vibrant and diverse reflection of the city’s multicultural spirit. From upscale dining experiences to casual takeout options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Exploring different restaurants, trying new dishes, and discovering hidden gems is part of the fun.
Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Calgary’s Thai food scene has something to offer. So, grab your chopsticks, prepare your taste buds, and embark on a culinary journey through the flavors of Thailand, right here in Calgary! What’s your favorite Thai dish in Calgary? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
