The 9 best Thai restaurants in Dubai
Who doesn’t love a bit of Thai food? Here’s our pick of the 10 best Thai restaurants in Dubai…
What’s On and The Black Hat Guide bring you the complete rundown of the best Thai restaurants in Dubai to make sure you’re not disappointed next time you crave the cuisine. For a full explanation of how the Black Hat Guide works, click here.
CHEAP & CHEERFUL (up to Dhs249 for two)
1. Busaba Eathai
Dhs200 for two
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A casual Thai eatery from the man behind the acclaimed Hakkasan and Wagamama (it’s a favourite in London). Think low and large communal tables and dramatic light fittings. We like the simple green papaya salad – just enough heat from the chilli, limey freshness and crunch in the vegetables.
The Beach, JBR, Dubai, Sun to Thur noon until 11pm, Fri and Sat noon until midnight. Tel: (052) 5545299. Metro: JLT. facebook.com/busabadubai
2. Lemongrass
Dhs225 for two
The modest interior and reasonable prices belie the quality at this established Thai pad. One of the best green curries in the city (pictured) – opt for the plump prawns – and a killer chicken panang. Also, a food court-based fast-food version (Dhs120 for two) of the popular chain. It’s not in the same league as the stand-alone restaurant, but you could do a lot worse if you’re in a hurry.
Lamcy Plaza, Oud Metha, Dubai, daily noon to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 3342325. Taxi: Lamcy Plaza. lemongrassrestaurants.com
3. Little Bangkok
Dhs200 for two
The pretty restaurant, decked out with dark woods and welcoming lighting, is a busy place with smiley staff quick to offer knowledgable tips on what to order. The presentation was superb, each dish bursting with colour and flamboyant touches. The dish with the real movie star looks was the poo nim tod krab: fragments of soft shell crab fried with garlic and chilli, piled on top of each other. The crunchy crab had been given just the right amount of fire from the chilli and warmth from the garlic without being overpowered by either, which demonstrated the dish had been prepared with a delicate touch. Som tam – papaya salad to me and you – was simple and didn’t have too many bells and whistles, instead relying on the freshness of its ingredients to hit the right buttons. In the stir fry section was pad med mamuang which was heartily recommended with a big smile from our waiter. We chose the chicken option, fried with chilli paste, and accompanied by giant cashew nuts and vegetables – another hit. A piece of salmon (nueng manao) had been steamed to near perfection, jazzed up by lime, garlic and chilli and was a great choice for a healthier meal. With food like this, it’s no wonder Little Bangkok has so many cheerful regulars coming through its doors.
Business Central Tower, Dubai Media City, Dubai, daily noon to 11pm. Tel: (04) 4255968. Metro: Dubai Internet City. littlebangkok.com. Other locations: Sheikh Zayed Road, Umm Suqeim, JLT.
PRICIER (Dhs250 to Dhs749 for two)
4. Benjarong
Dhs350 for two
The Thai hotel’s signature restaurant offers an authentic menu in a very traditional ornate setting. You’ll feel like you’re in Bangkok, but you’re really on Sheikh Zayed Road. We’ve been many times over the years, and always find it to be reliable and true to Thai flavours.
Dusit Thani, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, daily noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 3433333. Taxi: Near Interchange 1. dusit.com
5. Pai Thai
Dhs450 for two
Arrive by abra, dine under the stars and be serenaded by live music at this romantic restaurant. The dishes are elegantly presented, with top picks including sticky rice and traditional curries. This is a Dubai classic, and it’s consistent too.
Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 6.30pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 3666730. Taxi: Madinat Jumeirah. jumeirah.com
6. Spice Emporium
Dhs500 for two
Classic Thai dishes created in an open kitchen and served quickly. The restaurant is cosy, there is outdoor seating and the food and drink represent good value for money for a restaurant at a five-star resort. A safe option that won’t hit the wallet too hard.
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina, Dubai, daily 7pm to 10.45pm. Tel: (04) 3994141. Metro: Dubai Marina. westinminaseyahi.com
7. Thai Chi
Dhs280 for two
Thai Chi has a quaint bamboo-themed interior and serves up a steady stream of punters a decent selection of Thai classics. It’s an ‘old favourite’ for many Dubai There’s often a buffet set up too, if that’s you’re thing.
Wafi Pyramids, Oud Metha, Dubai, daily 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 3244100. Taxi: Wafi. wafi.com
8. Thai Kitchen
Dhs500 for two
We really love this one, and it’s one of Dubai’s most popular Thai restaurants, not just because of its lovely setting beside the marina in Old Dubai, but also due to its talented Thai kitchen team and the authentic sharing dishes, too. The ‘Thai tapas’ style brunch is one of our favourite Friday feasts in the city.
Park Hyatt, Deira, Dubai, daily 7pm to midnight, Fri 12.30pm to 4pm. Tel: (04) 3172222. Taxi: Park Hyatt. dubai.park.hyatt.com
9. Thiptara
Dhs600 for two
Thiptara translates to ‘magic on the water’, and this restaurant has a luxury feel and one of the best views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains in the city. It’s basically super romantic, with its isolated feel and private entrance, and so is a great special date option. The food is elegant, well plated and inventive. Go while it’s still cool and sit on the terrace.
The Palace, Old Town, Dubai, daily 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: (04) 8883444. Metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall. theaddress.com.
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