London Thai cuisine – Your guide to the city’s top Thai food spots

If you love the heat of chilies, the sweet splash of coconut milk and the fresh bite of herbs, London’s Thai scene has you covered. Thai food exploded here over the past decade, and today you can find everything from quick noodle stalls to polished restaurants that feel like a trip to Bangkok.

Top Thai restaurants you can’t miss

Som Saa in Marylebone is a favorite for serious food lovers. The menu sticks to regional recipes, so you’ll get real northern Thai flavors you rarely see elsewhere. Expect dishes like khao soi (curry noodle soup) and gaeng hung (spicy pork stew) at around £12‑£18 per plate. Booking a table ahead is wise—weekends fill up fast.

Busaba Eathai spreads across several locations (Soho, Covent Garden, Shoreditch). It’s a solid middle‑ground spot: bright décor, reliable service, and a menu that balances classic pad thai with inventive salads. Prices sit at £9‑£15 and the lunch set is a great way to taste several dishes without breaking the bank.

The Blue Elephant on South Kensington brings a more upscale vibe. Think dim lighting, elegant plating, and a tea ceremony‑style brunch on Sundays. Dishes like tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup) and massaman beef are on the pricier side (£20‑£30), but the experience feels special for date night or a celebration.

If you’re hunting for a hidden gem, try Thai Square on Camden High Street. It’s a modest place with a bustling open kitchen. The green curry with bamboo shoots is a standout, and the portion sizes are generous for under £10.

What to order: Must‑try Thai dishes in London

Don’t just stick to the familiar pad thai. Start with som tam (spicy papaya salad) – it’s crunchy, tangy, and a perfect palate cleaner. Pair it with gai yang (grilled chicken) for a simple yet satisfying combo.

For a real flavor adventure, go for khao soi. This northern Thai coconut‑curry noodle soup is rich, slightly sweet, and topped with crispy noodles that add texture. Many London spots serve it only on specific days, so check the daily specials.

If you can handle heat, try the phat phrik khing (dry red‑curry stir‑fry). It’s loaded with chilies, basil, and your choice of meat or tofu. It’s the dish that separates casual diners from true Thai fans.

Don’t forget dessert – mango sticky rice with fresh mango slices and coconut milk is the perfect sweet finish. Most restaurants serve a modest portion for about £4‑£6.

For those who love markets, head to Borough Market on Saturday mornings. You’ll find pop‑up stalls serving quick pad thai, fresh spring rolls and even Thai iced tea. It’s a cheap way to sample several vendors without committing to a sit‑down meal.

Finally, keep an eye on the Thai Food Festival that usually runs in summer at the Southbank Centre. The event gathers top chefs, offers cooking demos, and lets you taste limited‑edition dishes you won’t find elsewhere.

Whether you’re after a fast lunch, a romantic dinner, or a festive street‑food crawl, London’s Thai cuisine has something for every craving. Use this guide to pick a spot, order a dish you’ve never tried, and enjoy the bold, fresh flavors that make Thai food a global favorite.