Discover the Best Thai in London: Our Top Picks for 2026
- comedyinyoureye
- Feb 6
- 10 min read
Right then, thinking about where to get some proper good Thai food in London? It can be a bit of a minefield, can't it? We've been doing a bit of digging, and honestly, there are some absolute gems out there. Forget your usual takeaway spots for a minute, because we're talking about places that really know their stuff. From fiery southern flavours to dishes cooked over open flames, London's Thai scene is seriously impressive. So, if you're after the best Thai in London, keep reading. We've rounded up a few places that are definitely worth checking out.
Key Takeaways
Kiln offers Thai-inspired cooking over an open fire in a lively Soho setting.
Singburi is praised for its bold Southern Thai flavours and is considered a top spot by some experts.
Som Saa focuses on old-style regional Thai food using seasonal British and Asian ingredients.
Plaza Khao Gaeng serves authentic Southern Thai rice and curry dishes in a central location.
The Begging Bowl provides regional Thai cooking with a focus on seasonal produce in Peckham.
1. Kiln
Tucked away in Soho, Kiln is a real gem for anyone after some seriously good Thai food. They focus on cooking over charcoal, which gives everything this amazing smoky flavour. It’s not your usual Thai place; they use a lot of British ingredients but cook them with Thai techniques. You can sit right at the counter and watch the chefs at work, which is pretty cool. They do these amazing clay pot dishes, like the glass noodles with pork belly, and the seafood is always top-notch. It feels both a bit rough-and-ready and quite sophisticated at the same time.
The open fire cooking is what really sets Kiln apart.
Wood-fired dishes using British produce
Counter seating for a view of the kitchen
Bold, smoky flavours
The vibe here is buzzing, especially if you manage to snag a spot at the counter. It’s a place that doesn’t mess about with its flavours, going straight for that intense, satisfying taste that makes you want more.
2. Singburi
Singburi has made a bit of a name for itself, and for good reason. It’s a place that really focuses on the vibrant flavours of Southern Thailand. You know, the kind of food that packs a punch without being overly complicated. They’ve got this knack for changing up their specials on a blackboard regularly, which means there’s always something new to try, even if you’re a regular. It’s a pretty no-fuss kind of place, and honestly, that’s part of its charm. The food just speaks for itself.
It’s the sort of spot that feels genuinely local, a real neighbourhood gem. People often talk about how it’s worth making the trip for, especially if you appreciate cooking that’s lively and doesn’t mess about. They’re known for dishes that are bold and authentic, and it’s clear they’re not trying to water anything down for a UK audience. This commitment to genuine taste is what sets it apart.
Singburi offers a taste of Southern Thailand that’s both exciting and honest. The changing specials keep things fresh, and the straightforward approach lets the quality of the ingredients and the cooking really shine through.
If you're looking for a truly authentic Thai experience, Singburi is definitely one to consider. It’s a place that’s earned its reputation through consistently good food and a relaxed atmosphere. You can check out their current standing and reviews on Tripadvisor, where it holds a solid 4.3 out of 5 stars from nearly 150 reviews.
3. Som Saa
Som Saa on Commercial Street is a real treat if you're after proper, old-school regional Thai food. Chef Andy Oliver, who's spent time in some seriously respected kitchens both here in London and in Bangkok, leads the charge. They're big on using seasonal British ingredients alongside quality Asian ones to create dishes that pack a serious flavour punch.
What I really like about Som Saa is how they focus on dishes you might not find on every other Thai menu in the city. It feels like a genuine exploration of Thailand's diverse culinary landscape.
Here are a few things that make it stand out:
Authentic Regional Focus: They don't just do the usual suspects; they delve into less common regional specialities.
Quality Ingredients: A smart mix of local British produce and authentic Asian components.
Skilful Cooking: Dishes show a real understanding of traditional Thai techniques.
The vibe is pretty relaxed, making it a great spot for a meal out with friends or even a solo treat. It’s the kind of place that feels both exciting and comfortable.
You'll find that the attention to detail in their curry pastes and the balance of flavours in their dishes really shines through, offering a taste that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
4. Plaza Khao Gaeng
Tucked away in the Arcade Food Hall, Plaza Khao Gaeng is a real find if you're after some proper Southern Thai grub. It’s not a huge place, and the portions are on the smaller side, but honestly, that just means you can try more things, right? The focus here is on bold, fiery flavours, just like you'd find in a bustling Thai street market.
They do a fantastic job of recreating that authentic 'khao gaeng' (curry over rice) experience. Think intensely flavoured curries, spicy stir-fries, and some seriously good fried chicken to start. It’s the kind of place where you can really get a taste of regional Thailand without leaving London.
Here’s a little taste of what to expect:
Gaeng Tai Pla: A potent, fermented fish curry that’s not for the faint-hearted.
Massaman Curry: Rich, complex, and deeply satisfying.
Wok-fried Prawns: Packed with flavour and often featuring interesting additions like sato beans.
It’s a great spot for a casual lunch or a quick, flavour-packed dinner. Don't forget to order a Cha-Yen (Thai milk tea) to cool things down – it’s a refreshing classic. You can find some great Southern Thai dishes here.
5. The Begging Bowl
Tucked away in Peckham, The Begging Bowl is a real gem for anyone looking for authentic regional Thai food. It’s run by Jane Alty, a chef who previously worked with David Thompson at the renowned Nahm, so you know the flavours are going to be spot on. They’re serious about regional dishes here, and you can tell they don’t mess about with compromising on taste for a less adventurous palate.
The menu changes regularly, which is great because it means they can really focus on seasonal British ingredients and put an authentic Thai spin on them. You’ll find everything from fiery curries to perfectly grilled fish. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to order a bit of everything to share.
Here’s a little taste of what you might find:
Kua-gling: A dry, spicy curry paste that packs a punch.
Gang Som: A sour and spicy seafood curry that’s wonderfully fragrant.
Moo Hong: Slow-braised pork belly, a Phuket specialty.
Grilled Whole Fish: Often prepared with vibrant, authentic marinades.
Don't forget to try their Thai milk tea, often called Cha-Yen. It’s a refreshing and fragrant drink that’s not always easy to find outside of Thailand. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family. It’s a place that really celebrates the breadth of Thai cuisine, moving beyond the usual suspects you might see on other menus.
6. Kolae
Kolae is a real gem if you're after authentic Southern Thai food. They're not afraid to serve up proper, bold flavours, which is refreshing. Their charcoal-grilled chicken, marinated in coconut cream, is a must-try – it’s tender and packed with taste.
What really stands out is their commitment to regional dishes. You can tell they've put a lot of thought into the menu.
Charcoal-grilled chicken with coconut cream marinade: A signature dish that's incredibly flavourful.
Yellow curry with British-caught fish: A clever dish that balances spice and delicate fish perfectly.
Intimate setting: Makes for a cosy and personal dining experience.
This place feels like a genuine slice of Thailand right here in London. The focus on specific regional dishes means you get a taste of something truly special, not just a generic Thai meal.
7. Long Chim
David Thompson's Long Chim in Soho is a place that really tries to capture the essence of Thai cooking. Thompson, with his deep knowledge of the cuisine, has put together a menu that feels both authentic and exciting. You'll find dishes here that don't shy away from bold, traditional flavours, which is a refreshing change.
When you visit, you might want to try their massaman curry. It’s known for having a really complex, deep taste. Another standout is the grilled Isaan sausages; they have a distinctive, slightly sour flavour that’s really transportive. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel like you’ve stepped out of London for a bit.
Here’s a little taste of what to expect:
Massaman Curry: Rich, slow-cooked, and full of spices.
Isaan Sausages: Grilled, tangy, and packed with herbs.
Curry Pastes: Made in-house with impressive attention to detail.
The focus at Long Chim is on presenting Thai food as it's enjoyed in Thailand, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and well-balanced spice levels. It’s a spot that rewards those looking for a genuine taste of Thai street food and home cooking.
8. Supawan Thai Restaurant
Tucked away in King's Cross, Supawan Thai Restaurant is a bit of a hidden gem. It's the sort of place that feels like a genuine discovery, serving up some seriously authentic Thai food that really takes you back to the source. They're particularly known for their Gaeng Om, which is an Isaan-style herbal curry. It's got this incredible depth of flavour, showing a real knack for regional Thai cooking.
Honestly, the Khao Soi noodle soup here is perfectly balanced, and their homemade Nam Prik Pao chilli sauce is something else – it makes everything it touches taste even better. It’s a small, family-run spot, and that intimate atmosphere really adds to the whole experience. If you're looking for a taste of Thailand that feels truly home-cooked, this is definitely one to check out. You can find out more about their menu and story on supawan.co.uk.
Here's what makes Supawan stand out:
Authentic Isaan Flavours: Their Gaeng Om is a standout, showcasing the herbal and aromatic qualities of northeastern Thai cuisine.
Exceptional House-Made Sauces: The Nam Prik Pao is a game-changer, adding a unique kick to many dishes.
Comforting Noodle Soups: The Khao Soi is a masterclass in balance and flavour.
Family-Run Charm: The intimate setting makes you feel genuinely welcome.
This restaurant really captures the essence of regional Thai cooking, moving beyond the usual offerings you might find elsewhere. It’s a place that clearly cares about tradition and flavour.
9. Smoking Goat
Smoking Goat in Shoreditch is a place that really knows how to pack a punch with its food. It’s not trying to be fancy, which is part of its charm, really. They focus on Thai-inspired dishes but use ingredients sourced right here in Britain. It’s the sort of place you can just rock up to, whether you're on your own or with a few mates, and know you're going to get something tasty.
What I like about it is the straightforward approach to flavour. They aren't messing about with complicated techniques; it's all about getting those bold tastes right. It feels pretty authentic, even though it's a London spot.
Here's a little taste of what you might find:
Aromatic curries with a bit of a kick.
Grilled meats that are smoky and tender.
Spicy salads that wake up your taste buds.
The vibe here is pretty relaxed, making it a good shout for a casual meal. You won't feel out of place, and the staff are usually pretty friendly too. It's a solid choice if you're after some good, honest Thai cooking without any fuss.
10. Farang
Farang, located in Highbury, is Sebby Holmes's own place, and it's a real gem. It started as a pop-up, but people loved it so much it became permanent. Sebby really knows his Thai food; he worked at The Begging Bowl and then Smoking Goat before opening his own restaurant. It's been recognised with a Michelin Bib Gourmand for five years running, which is pretty impressive.
What I like about Farang is how they take classic Thai dishes and give them a bit of a London twist, using local ingredients. It’s not just about the usual curries you see everywhere; they dig deeper into regional Thai cooking. You can expect bold flavours and dishes that feel both familiar and excitingly new.
Here are a few things that make it stand out:
Authentic Flavours: They don't shy away from the real tastes of Thailand, even if it means a bit of spice.
British Produce: They cleverly use seasonal British ingredients to create genuinely Thai dishes.
Creative Menu: The menu changes, so there's always something new to try, keeping things interesting.
Bib Gourmand Recognition: This award shows they offer great food at reasonable prices.
The vibe at Farang is pretty relaxed, making it a good spot for a casual meal with friends or even a solo treat. It feels like a neighbourhood favourite, but with food that's good enough to travel for. They manage to balance that neighbourhood feel with seriously good cooking.
If you're looking for Thai food that goes beyond the basics and offers a real taste of what the cuisine can be, Farang is definitely worth a visit. It’s a place that shows a real passion for Thai cooking and a clever approach to using local ingredients.
So, Where Will Your Next Thai Adventure Take You?
Right then, that’s our rundown of some seriously good Thai food spots across London for 2026. We’ve looked at places that really know their stuff, from fiery southern flavours to comforting classics, all recommended by people who really know their food. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a full-on feast, there’s something here to tickle your taste buds. London’s Thai scene is buzzing, and honestly, you can’t go too far wrong with any of these choices. So get out there, try something new, and let us know what you think!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Thai food so special in London?
London has some amazing Thai restaurants that offer a real taste of Thailand. Many chefs use fresh British ingredients mixed with Thai spices to create dishes that are both familiar and exciting. You can find everything from spicy curries to grilled meats, all cooked with real passion.
Are these restaurants expensive?
The restaurants on this list offer a range of prices. Some are fancy places for a special treat, while others are more casual and affordable. The main thing is that they all serve delicious and authentic Thai food, so there's something for every budget.
Do I need to book a table?
It's a really good idea to book a table, especially for the more popular places or if you're planning to visit during busy times like weekends. Some restaurants might also have limited seating at their counter, which is a great spot to watch the chefs at work.
What if I don't like spicy food?
Thai food can be quite spicy, but many restaurants are happy to adjust the heat level for you. It's always best to let your server know your preference when you order. You can also ask them for recommendations on milder dishes.
What's the difference between regional Thai cuisines?
Thailand has different regions, and each has its own style of cooking. For example, Southern Thai food is often known for being fiery and using lots of seafood, while Northern Thai food might have influences from neighbouring countries. These restaurants often focus on specific regional flavours.
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options?
Most Thai restaurants are very accommodating. While traditional Thai cooking often includes fish sauce or shrimp paste, many places can prepare vegetarian or vegan versions of their dishes if you ask. Just be sure to mention your dietary needs when ordering.