If you’re a fan of Thai food, you know that it’s not just a meal – it’s an experience! From the perfect blend of spices to the artful presentation, every detail counts.
But with so many options out there, it can be tough to find a restaurant that truly delivers on that Thai flavor. That’s where our list of the best Thai restaurants in the city comes in.
Whether you’re craving a spicy curry or a sweet dessert, these restaurants have you covered. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite restaurant with our list!
Table of Contents
How We Chose the Best Thai Restaurants in Calgary
Check out the criteria we used to evaluate the entries:
1. Pad Thai Restaurant
| Authenticity | 4/5 |
| Dietary options | 5/5 |
| Service | 4/5 |
| Atmosphere | 5/5 |
| Reputation | 5/5 |
As a team of self-proclaimed Thai food connoisseurs, we’ve been to our fair share of restaurants that claim to serve up the real deal. So, when we stepped into the Pad Thai Restaurant, we were prepared for the worst – but boy, were we in for a surprise!
The restaurant’s ambiance strikes the perfect balance between casual and special occasion, with comfortable seating and an inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two.
But let’s talk about the food. Their menu is extensive and caters to every taste preference, making it a Thai food lover’s paradise.
However, their drunken prawns truly stole the show – the succulent prawns and spicy flavors combined in a way that had our taste buds dancing.
And if that wasn’t enough, their panang curry is a knockout dish that we simply can’t stop raving about!
The creamy, aromatic sauce is infused with complex spices that create a taste explosion in your mouth. The veggies and chicken were cooked to perfection, making every bite a delight.
But perhaps the cherry on top of this Thai food sundae is the fact that they accommodate dietary requirements. You can have your dish made vegetarian or gluten-friendly without sacrificing any of the flavors – truly a win-win situation.
The only downside we found is that their portions are on the smaller side. However, this is easily remedied by ordering a variety of dishes to share.
Plus, it’s a bit ideal in a way for those who want to indulge in multiple plates without feeling too stuffed.
Pros
- Extensive menu of Thai food
- Comfortable seating arrangement
- Inviting atmosphere
- Available for delivery and take-out
- Accommodates dietary requirements
- Does catering
Cons
- Small portions
Jam-packed with flavor
I loved how much veg is in each dish!!! Usually thai food places seem to only put 3 ingredients in each dish but all of our dishes were jam packed with flavour variety. Everything tasted great and had good presentation and service. All was reasonably priced but the ambiance made it feel like I was in a more expensive place, in a good way. – Emma Poulin
Lots of healthy options
Finding somewhere with lots of gluten free options can be difficult, but there are lots of options here! I had the chicken salad rolls and a chicken pad Thai. They are very knowledgeable about Celiac Disease and I felt comfortable eating here (which doesn’t happen often due to cross contact risk). I will definitely be back to try some other items from the menu. – Christina Lister
2. Khao San Thai Kitchen
| Authenticity | 5/5 |
| Dietary options | 3/5 |
| Service | 4/5 |
| Atmosphere | 5/5 |
| Reputation | 4/5 |
Our team recently visited Khao San Thai) and we have to say, it sure is one heck of a Thai joint. We were blown away by the Thai and Western design, which perfectly mirrored their menu – a delicious blend of traditional and modern Thai cuisine.
When it comes to their menu, the restaurant’s name couldn’t be more fitting. They offer a wide selection of authentic Thai dishes that are expertly crafted with rice as a central component.
Their braised short ribs in massaman curry were the star of the show for us – the meat was so tender, it practically melted in our mouths. And the curry? Let’s just say it was so good that we almost licked the bowl clean.
Their salad rolls were also a hit – fresh, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. We could’ve eaten a million of them (if we weren’t so full!)
The only downside? The food wasn’t served piping hot, which was a bit of a bummer. But, hey, we didn’t let that ruin our meal, although we took note of that for our score sheet.
On another note, Khao San Thai is a good spot for dinner but may not be the best option for lunch as it opens later in the afternoon. Nonetheless, the restaurant’s flexible operating hours make it perfect for an early dinner or a super late lunch.
And let’s not forget about the customer service – it’s top-notch! Frankly, while some dishes at Khao San Thai may be average, the majority are nothing short of exceptional.
Pros
- Offers signature Thai dishes
- Wide selection of authentic Thai cuisine
- Online reservations available
- Available for delivery
- Modern ambiance
Cons
- Often serves cold food
- Not ideal for lunch
Excellent food, well presented
What a cute place!! The owner and staff were outstanding and the food was excellent! I’d recommend the salad rolls and the pad tai – everything was so delicious and well presented- just wow wow wow!!! – Laurie Lynn
Friendly and attentive staff
Really enjoyed our meal here, the staff was friendly and attentive. Everything was very flavorful and authentic. Would recommend making reservations on weekends. – Sarah Campbell
3. Thai Express
| Authenticity | 5/5 |
| Dietary options | 3/5 |
| Service | 4/5 |
| Atmosphere | 5/5 |
| Reputation | 4/5 |
If you’re in the mood for some authentic Thai cuisine with a modern twist, Thai Express is worth a visit. With numerous branches across Calgary, we decided to check out their Shawville location and were pleasantly surprised by the experience.
They specialize in traditional Thai recipes, but with a contemporary spin that adds a unique flavor to each dish. It’s like taking a trip to Thailand, but with a modern surprise that elevates each meal.
We tried a few different plates, but the standout for us was the cloudles, their famous light and crispy noodles that were an absolute delight to munch on. It was like biting into a cloud, but with an extra crunch!
In addition to the cloudles, we also tried the fried chicken dumplings, which were bursting with flavor. However, it’s important to note that Thai Express doesn’t guarantee gluten-free options in their food, which is a definite drawback for some.
Despite this, we were impressed by their fast and friendly accommodation. It’s really a nice spot for a quick bite, and the staff did their best to make us feel comfortable and welcome.
Finally, one unique aspect of Thai Express is that they try to make the dishes right in front of you, which adds to the authenticity and freshness of the food. It was a treat to watch them in action and made us appreciate the effort that goes into each plate even more.
Pros
- Has various locations in the city
- Good spot for cloudles
- Specializes in traditional Thai recipes with a twist
- Fast and friendly accommodation
- Online order available
Cons
- Doesn’t guarantee complete gluten-free dishes
Hearty delicious, variety of options
I love Thai Express! It is definitely one of my favourite restaurants. I like that it’s an easy “fast food” option but is also a hearty delicious meal that doesn’t feel like “fast food.” There is a variety of options and I have enjoyed every single one I’ve tried. Definitely recommend! – Tovah McLaren
Worth recommending
It seems that the chef is very skillful and cooks delicious food, it is worth recommending this place. – CY L
4. Thai Bistro
| Authenticity | 4/5 |
| Dietary options | 5/5 |
| Service | 4/5 |
| Atmosphere | 3/5 |
| Reputation | 4/5 |
As someone who is always on the hunt for delicious vegan and gluten-friendly food, Thai Bistro has quickly become one of our team’s go-to spots. We love that they have separate menus for lunch and dinner, which allows for a wider selection of dishes to choose from.
During our recent lunch visit, we tried their red curry with shrimp, and it didn’t disappoint. The flavors were perfectly balanced with just the right amount of spice – really the right dish to warm us up on a chilly day.
We couldn’t help but talk about how the combination of creamy coconut milk and fresh vegetables made for a comforting yet flavorful dish.
While the food is undoubtedly the star of the show at Thai Bistro, we have to mention their cozy dining room. The red café-style tables packed quite closely together create a warm atmosphere that makes dining there a truly communal experience.
Now, we must admit that we found them slightly lacking in terms of cleanliness – they just feel kind of messy with all the hustle. However, their attentive and friendly staff, who were happy to address any concerns we had, quickly made up for it.
Overall, Thai Bistro is a great spot for anyone looking for delicious vegan and gluten-friendly food in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The food speaks for itself, and the staff is always ready to go above and beyond to make your dining experience memorable.
Pros
- Wide range menu
- Gluten-free and dairy-free dishes
- Vegan-friendly
- Lunch and dinner dine-in friendly
- Cozy dining room
- Available for online services
Cons
- Minor sanitary complaints
Amazing food, friendly staff
Best Thai food in the city!!! Absolute love the curry here and the papaya salad and mango salads are a must have. The food is amazing and the staff are very friendly. I highly recommend this place if you want some delicious Thai food! – Chris L
Excellent service, authentic
A small Thai restaurant featuring delicious, authentic Thai food, excellent service, and reasonable prices. A good staple place to eat. – Cory Prostebby
5. De Thai Cuisine
| Authenticity | 4/5 |
| Dietary options | 4/5 |
| Service | 4/5 |
| Atmosphere | 4/5 |
| Reputation | 4/5 |
Having recently eaten at De Thai Cuisine, we can confirm that we had a delightful experience. We had heard so many great things about this place from reviews and recommendations, and we were excited to finally try it out for ourselves.
One thing we appreciated about this restaurant is its traditional Thai approach to serving. The ambiance was warm and welcoming, and the decor gave us the feeling that we had been whisked away to Thailand itself.
However, we were met with a bit of difficulty in choosing what to order – their menu was extensive, and everything looked so good!
It was like a Thai food lover’s paradise. Though, in our opinion, the standout dish was their Thai soup which we think is perfect for a cold day.
It was flavorful and fragrant, with a perfect balance of spicy and savory. The broth was light but packed a punch of spices that truly elevated the dish.
For those who like their food extra spicy, check them out, as they accommodate any requests for an added kick of heat.
It’s just that De Thai Cuisine is a little pricey compared to some other Thai restaurants on this list. But we believe the quality of the food and the dining experience is worth the splurge.
Anyhow, if you’re looking for a traditional Thai restaurant that delivers on both authenticity and flavor, De Thai Cuisine is a must-visit. Just be prepared to take some time choosing, and don’t forget to try their Thai soup – it’s a game changer!
Pros
- Wide menu of authentic Thai dishes
- Traditional Thai approach to serving
- Specializes in Thai soup
- Accommodates any allergies
- Extra spicy option available upon request
- Takeout and delivery available
Cons
- A little bit pricey
- Menu can be quite extensive
Perfection, made from scratch
Unexpected authentic perfection. All raw ingredients, every dish made from scratch. And you can taste it. Best TomYum soup I have ever had in Canada. Excellent foodie experience. – Tara Alexander
Excellent thai offerings
This place is amazing! The thai street dumplings are a MUST TRY! Soooooo tender and delicious. Excellent thai offerings like my favorite – swimming rama! Everything tasted fantastic. Great service and super cute atmosphere. – John H
6. Jackie’s Thai
| Authenticity | 3/5 |
| Dietary options | 4/5 |
| Service | 4/5 |
| Atmosphere | 4/5 |
| Reputation | 4/5 |
If you’re looking for authentic Thai food that won’t break the bank, Jackie’s Thai is a good place to start. At under $10 per dish, you won’t have to worry about burning a hole in your wallet just to get a taste of Thai cuisine.
But it’s not just the affordability that sets them apart. The owner has dedicated years to perfecting each dish, promising to provide the most authentic Thai experience in the city.
Fortunately, our recent trip to the place seemed to show that they really delivered on that promise.
One of the standout dishes we tried was the Thai basil chicken. The aroma of basil and spices filled our noses as we took our first bite, and we were hooked.
The chicken was also tender and cooked just right, and the flavors were perfectly balanced.
And of course, we couldn’t leave without trying their popular classic Chicken Pad Thai. However, that one sadly disappointed us.
The noodles were a little soggy and sticky, and there wasn’t much flavor in them, which was the opposite of the authentic ones. We’ve had so much better options elsewhere so this is definitely underwhelming.
Now, despite the affordable prices, the portions are generous and satisfying. Plus, they have gluten-free and vegan options, so there’s something for everyone to try.
Having said all of that, and regardless of the minor flaw, we sure will be coming back to Jackie’s Thai. Well, for one, their weekly rotating menu promises only the best recipes, and we can’t wait to see what they have in store next.
Pros
- Affordable Thai food
- Many years of experience
- Generous portions
- Gluten-free and vegan options
- Weekly rotating menu
- Available for take-out
Cons
- Minor complaints about food inconsistencies
- No delivery services
- Can’t access website at times
Incredibly flavorful, good service
My review is simple and well over due. The food is incredibly flavourful with a multitude of spices. Fresh condiments like bean sprouts in cold water, chili oil, raw onion, and cilantro are available for you to tailor your dish just how you like it. Good food, good service. – Lagoon The Pup
Hidden gem
Seriously the best Thai food downtown. Jackie is just the sweetest person in the whole world and her Pad Thai will blow your mind. This is a total hidden gem in Eau Claire. – Tyler Mutch
7. Thai Nongkhai Restaurant
| Authenticity | 4/5 |
| Dietary options | 4/5 |
| Service | 3/5 |
| Atmosphere | 4/5 |
| Reputation | 3/5 |
After trying out various Thai restaurants in Calgary, we found ourselves at Thai Nongkhai, which boasts an extensive menu featuring dishes from different regions of Thailand. What makes them truly authentic is that their dishes are expertly prepared by Thai chefs.
The first thing that caught our attention was their spacious dining area, complete with outdoor seating. It’s a great way to soak up the sun while enjoying our meal, making it our favorite spot.
When it comes to their food, we find it spicy but not too spicy, with a good balance of flavors that leaves our taste buds tingling with pleasure.
Additionally, we were pleased to find that they cater to various dietary needs, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
Now, one dish that we simply had to try was their fried tilapia fish, and we were not disappointed. The fish was cooked to perfection, with a crisp outer layer that revealed the tender meat inside.
The curry sauce that accompanied it was so tasty, with a hint of spiciness that complemented the fish perfectly. Although some may find the dish to be a bit on the salty side, we felt that it only added to the overall flavor profile.
Unfortunately, another downside we noticed was that the portions were a bit smaller than we expected. However, the quality of the dishes more than made up for it.
As the saying goes, “good things come in small packages,” and this is definitely true of Thai Nongkhai’s dishes.
Pros
- Offers dishes from many areas of Thailand
- Expertly made by Thai chefs
- Huge dining area with outdoor seating
- Ideal level of spiciness
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options
- Delivers
Cons
- Complaints about small portions
- Minor inconsistencies with the flavor
Full of flavor
I’ve been here a couple times, for both regular visits and a private event. Every time, the food is wonderful. Everything is fragrant and full of flavour. Green curry with coconut rice is my favourite. – Kat Eleanor
Fast, friendly service
What an amazing dinner!! Authentic thai food, delicious, flavourful, food came out fast, service was very friendly. Super cute thai aesthetic in the restaurant. Definitely my new go-to thai place!! MY boyfriend is celiac and they very easily accommodated him and he felt great afterwards! – Amanda Sparrow
