Feast on award-winning Pad Thai at Chaophraya in Blayds Court, Leeds, or savor a standout Pad Kee Mao at the affordable Thai Aroy Dee on Vicar Lane. For aromatic curries and tom yum soup, head to the hidden gem Khao Gaeng Thai in Leeds Kirkgate Market.
What are the must-try Thai restaurants in Leeds?
- Chaophraya: A luxury experience with award-winning dishes like Pad Thai and Thai tacos.
- Thai Aroy Dee: Affordable, with a focus on authentic flavors and a standout pad kee mao.
- Khao Gaeng Thai: A hidden gem in Leeds Kirkgate Market known for aromatic curries and tom yum soup.
- Phranakhon: Offers a cozy Thai tapas experience with a variety of small plates.
- Olive & Thai: Features Chiang Mai curry noodles and a passion for authentic Thai cuisine.
- Rosa’s Thai: A nationally acclaimed chain with a vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu including cashew stir-fry.
- Jino’s Thai Cafe: An elegant venue in Headingley with a great lunch deal and traditional Thai flavors.
A Taste of Thailand at Chaophraya
Nestled in Blayds Court, Chaophraya presents itself as a beacon of Thai luxury in Leeds. Kim Kaewkraikhot, the founder, brought her vision to life after growing up in a rural Thai village. Since 2004, this restaurant has been impressing with its ornate decor and award-winning dishes. The Pad Thai is a testament to Kim’s culinary prowess, while their unique Thai tacos offer an adventurous twist to the traditional lineup.
Patrons can anticipate a visually stunning atmosphere, accentuated with gold touches and traditional sculptures. Amidst such grandeur, the menu beckons with a plethora of options. From the traditional beef panang to a comforting chicken with black pepper sauce, choices abound for every palate. For those inclined to experience innovation in flavor, the Thai tacos are a must-try, with fillings ranging from succulent vegetables to tender chicken.
Address: Chaophraya, 20A, Blayds Court, Swinegate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4AG.
Affordability Meets Flavor at Thai Aroy Dee
Thai Aroy Dee stands as a testament to the notion that great food need not be expensive. Located on Vicar Lane, this establishment has stripped back its interior design to focus on what matters most: the food. An assortment of starters such as Thai fish cakes and crispy fried wonton pave the way for a diverse main course menu featuring curries, salads, noodles, and the standout pad kee mao.
The eatery’s ethos of simplicity ensures that the spotlight remains on the authentic Thai flavors. Lunchtime visitors are in for a treat, with an enticing happy hour deal that serves up a main course and a side dish at an irresistible price. The pad kee mao, a dish of stir-fried noodles imbued with basil and chillis, is particularly noteworthy for its harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Address: Thai Aroy Dee, 120-122 Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7NL.
Discovering Khao Gaeng Thai’s Hidden Delights
Perhaps lesser-known but just as impressive is Khao Gaeng Thai, a gem located within Leeds Kirkgate Market. This unassuming stall draws in customers with its aromatic offerings, ranging from curry to noodle boxes. A highlight is their tom yum soup, a concoction of lemongrass, mushroom, and a choice of protein, guaranteed to satisfy those seeking warmth and heartiness. Accompany your meal with a recommended bubble tea for a complete dining experience.
The charm of Khao Gaeng Thai lies in its straightforward presentation and exceptional taste. As you wander through Kirkgate Market, the inviting aroma of Thai spices will guide you to this culinary haven. Here, you can enjoy classic dishes like curry and rice, or opt for a comforting bowl of tom yum soup, each dish promising a burst of authentic Thai flavor.
Address: Khao Gaeng Thai, Unit 1, 1904, Leeds Kirkgate Market, George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7HY.
Phranakhon: A Rustic Thai Tapas Experience
Phranakhon, a dimly lit underground venue, provides patrons with a unique Thai tapas experience. The decor harmonizes rustic charm with an enchanted secret garden aesthetic, offering diners a cozy ambiance to enjoy a variety of small plates. With offerings like garlic jumbo prawns, crispy pork belly, and chilli-fried aubergine, the menu is a testament to Thailand’s rich culinary diversity.
The atmosphere of Phranakhon enhances the dining experience, with its intimate nooks and vines that seem to whisper tales of faraway lands. The assortment of tapas, ranging from succulent seafood to perfectly seasoned vegetables, ensures a memorable meal with each visit. Attentive service complements the cozy setting, making Phranakhon an appealing destination for those in pursuit of Thai flavors.
Address: Phranakhon, 11 York Place, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 2DS.
Olive & Thai: A Culinary Passion Project
Tucked away in Queens Arcade is Olive & Thai, a restaurant born from a passion for Thai cuisine. The airy upstairs dining room provides a light and inviting atmosphere where guests can explore an array of starters, including veggie spring rolls and spicy Thai salads. The menu’s star is undoubtedly the Chiang Mai curry noodles, featuring slow-cooked chicken amidst a symphony of flavors.
Olive & Thai’s commitment to showcasing the essence of Thai food is evident in each dish. Patrons can embark on a culinary journey with authentic classics such as massaman curry and pad kra pow. However, it’s the Chiang Mai curry noodles that stand out, offering a taste of Northern Thailand with tender chicken enveloped in rich, flavorful curry.
Address: Olive & Thai, 16 Queens Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF.
Rosa’s Thai: A Nationally Acclaimed Favorite
Rosa’s Thai boasts a series of locations across the country, and its Leeds branch at Trinity is no exception to the brand’s reputation for excellence. The restaurant exudes a casual yet vibrant atmosphere, with wooden furnishings and colorful accents. The menu delights with an array of starters like crispy veggie spring rolls, leading to mains that span from noodles to curries. A highlight is the cashew stir-fry, melding Rosa’s special soy sauce with a medley of nuts and vegetables.
The ambiance at Rosa’s Thai is as inviting as its culinary offerings. Simple yet stylish, the space encourages diners to relax and savor dishes that balance traditional Thai flavors with a contemporary twist. The cashew stir-fry is particularly notable, skillfully combining diverse textures and flavors for a satisfying main course.
Address: Rosa’s Thai, Trinity Leeds, 27 Albion Street, Leeds LS1 5AT.
Jino’s Thai Cafe: A Headingley Gem
Jino’s Thai Cafe, situated in the vibrant area of Headingley, is a stylish establishment that caters to all dining occasions. The elegant decor, characterized by high ceilings and verdant greenery, sets the stage for a menu rich in Thai staples. Take advantage of their lunch deal, which includes a starter, a main, and a drink at an attractive price point. Notable dishes include the fiery pad prik gaeng and the soothing gaeng pad, both of which showcase the intricate balance of Thai flavors.
Jino’s Thai Cafe captures the essence of Thai dining with its appealing interior and a comprehensive menu that embraces tradition. Their lunchtime offering is a steal, with a range of appetizers and mains that cater to various tastes. The BYOB policy adds to the restaurant’s allure, inviting guests to accompany their meal with a favorite beverage.
Address: Jino’s Thai Cafe, 38 North Lane, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 3HU.
- Chaophraya: A luxury experience with award-winning dishes like Pad Thai and Thai tacos.
- Thai Aroy Dee: Affordable, with a focus on authentic flavors and a standout pad kee mao.
- Khao Gaeng Thai: A hidden gem in Leeds Kirkgate Market known for aromatic curries and tom yum soup.
- Phranakhon: Offers a cozy Thai tapas experience with a variety of small plates.
- Olive & Thai: Features Chiang Mai curry noodles and a passion for authentic Thai cuisine.