If chicken tikka masala remains our favourite national dish, then fragrant, spicy Thai curries surely come in second. A nation that welcomes millions of UK visitors each year offers an incredible kaleidoscope of aromatic flavours, spiciness and a rich cultural heritage that merges the best elements of several South-East Asian cuisines.
Moreover, as the number of British tourists visiting Thailand increases each year, the renown of this complex and varied cuisine can only flourish. In fact, Thai food only started to earn any recognition after the 1960s, when Thailand became a destination for global tourism and American troops began to take their leave on the various islands during the Vietnam War.
What the initial visitors to this beautiful country discovered was not one single food culture but rather four regional cuisines that correspond to the vast geographical differences across Thailand — southern cuisine is very different to the Chinese-influenced dishes found in the north. One commonality amongst all regions is the custom of serving more dishes than there are guests at a table. In Thailand, everything is shared, and the concept of each individual enjoying one starter and then a main course is totally alien and even offensive. Their dining habits make our Western conventions and ‘manners’ seem rather selfish.
Today there are over 600 Thai restaurants throughout Britain, and the numbers continue to grow. Ailing pubs, ever fearful of falling revenues, have started offering food form Thailand at low prices, which has been a major hit. Yet 40 years ago, there were but a handful of restaurants — the first Thai restaurant to open in the UK was The Bangkok in Bute Street London, which opened in 1967, followed by The Siam in 1970. Of course, things have moved on considerably since then, so we’ve selected a few highlights below:
Patara Thai Restaurant — Soho, London
A London institution, Patara
serves consistently excellent dishes that are both utterly authentic and decidedly moreish. The minimalist, sleek dining room only adds to the appeal, as does the extensive wine list and highly professional, charming staff.
Thai Square — Islington, London
A uniformly excellent chain of Thai restaurants, Thai Square offers friendly, no-fuss service and reasonably priced, delicious food. The formula clearly works as the Islington branch, which has recently reopened following a major refurbishment, is usually jam-packed. Redesigned sleek interiors, a late-night bar serving innovative cocktails and a £12 lunch menu — what’s not to like?
Nipa Thai — Marble Arch, London
Now for something a bit special. Nipa Thai is one of the world’s leading Thai restaurants; the setting, service, and, of course, food are extremely polished, slick and, at the same time, authentic. Head Chef Sanguan is already a living legend in Thai cooking — his approach is to update classical dishes with contemporary touches while remaining faithful to the traditions on which this venerable culinary art is founded.
Port of Siam — Edinburgh
Port of Siam is a wonderful, family-run Thai restaurant that attracts a loyal clientele who return time and time again for the fantastic food, homely atmosphere and friendly service. There is nothing to dislike about the place.
Thai Classic — Bristol
Undoubtedly the southwest’s best Asian restaurant, Thai Classic occupies a simple space that is always full to bursting on weekends with regulars and tourists visiting Bristol. Food is top-notch and doesn’t leave a massive dent in your wallet.
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