Discover the Best Thai in London: Our Top Picks for 2026
- comedyinyoureye
- 2 hours ago
- 11 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
Right then, if you're wandering around Soho and fancy some Thai food that's a bit different, you absolutely have to check out Kiln. It's not your average sit-down-and-order-a-pad-thai kind of place. What makes Kiln stand out is its focus on cooking everything over charcoal. This gives the food this incredible smoky depth that you just don't get anywhere else. They're really clever with how they use British ingredients, but they cook them using proper Thai methods.
One of the best things about Kiln is that you can actually sit right at the counter and watch the chefs doing their thing. It’s quite a show, honestly. They do these fantastic dishes cooked in clay pots, and the glass noodles with pork belly are a real highlight. The seafood is always spot on too.
Here's a little taste of what to expect:
Wood-fired dishes: Expect bold, smoky flavours.
British produce, Thai techniques: A unique fusion.
Counter seating: Watch the chefs at work.
Clay pot specialities: Don't miss the noodles.
The whole vibe at Kiln is buzzing. It’s a place that doesn't mess about; the flavours are intense and really satisfying. It manages to feel both a bit raw and quite sophisticated all at once, which is a tricky balance to strike.
It’s a place that really shows you how exciting Thai cooking can be when you move beyond the usual suspects. Definitely worth a visit if you're looking for something memorable.
2. Singburi
Singburi has really carved out a reputation for itself, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. This Leytonstone favourite, now with a new spot in Shoreditch, is all about bringing the vibrant, punchy flavours of Southern Thailand to London. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t shy away from authentic tastes, which is a breath of fresh air.
They’re known for their blackboard specials, which change regularly. This means even if you’re a regular, there’s always something new to discover. It keeps things interesting, you know? The menu generally focuses on dishes that pack a real flavour punch, using quality ingredients without trying to make them too mild for local tastes. It’s a straightforward approach that lets the food do all the talking.
Here’s what makes Singburi stand out:
Bold Southern Thai Flavours: Expect dishes that are lively and full of character.
Changing Specials: A blackboard menu means you’ll always find something different.
Authentic Approach: They stick to genuine Thai tastes, not watered-down versions.
Casual Atmosphere: It’s a relaxed spot where the food is the main event.
It’s a place that feels genuinely local, a real neighbourhood gem that many reckon is well worth the journey for. If you appreciate cooking that’s exciting and honest, Singburi is definitely one to put on your list. You can find out more about their current offerings and reviews online, but honestly, the best way to experience it is to just go. It’s a spot that’s earned its stripes for a reason, offering a refreshing alternative to some of the pricier Thai places you find elsewhere in the city. Check out their current standing and reviews to get a better idea.
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. This commitment to genuine taste is what sets it apart.
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. You can find out more about their authentic Thai dining experience on Som Saa.
The focus at Som Saa 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.
4. The Begging Bowl
Tucked away on Bellenden Road in Peckham, The Begging Bowl is a proper gem for anyone keen on authentic regional Thai food. It’s run by Jane Alty, a chef who actually trained with the famous David Thompson at Nahm, so you know the flavours are going to be on point. They really focus on regional dishes here, and you can absolutely tell they're not messing about when it comes to flavour.
What I really like is how they manage to use seasonal British ingredients but still keep everything tasting genuinely Thai. The menu changes regularly, which is great because it means you're always getting something fresh and exciting. It’s the kind of place that feels really welcoming, whether you're popping in for a quick bite or settling down for a longer meal.
Here’s a little bit of what makes it stand out:
Regional Focus: They go beyond the usual suspects, exploring dishes you might not find everywhere else.
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 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. It’s a comfortable spot for both locals and visitors to get a genuine taste of Thai cooking.
5. 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. The attention to detail in their curry pastes and the balance of flavours in their dishes really shines through.
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.
6. Kolae
Kolae is a bit of a standout if you're after genuine Southern Thai food. They really aren't afraid to go big on the flavours, which is quite refreshing in a city with so many Thai places. Their charcoal-grilled chicken, marinated in coconut cream, is something you absolutely have to try – it's so tender and just bursting with taste. What really makes Kolae special, though, is their dedication to regional dishes. You can tell they've put a lot of thought into the menu, focusing on authentic recipes.
Here's a little peek at what you might find:
Charcoal-grilled chicken with coconut cream marinade: This is their signature dish, and it's incredibly flavourful.
Yellow curry with British-caught fish: A clever dish that manages to balance spice with delicate fish perfectly.
Moo Hong: Slow-braised pork belly, a real Phuket specialty.
The atmosphere here is relaxed and friendly, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family. It’s a place that truly celebrates the breadth of Thai cuisine, moving beyond the usual dishes you might see on other menus.
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. 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. You can find some great Southern Thai dishes here at Kolae.
7. Long Chim
David Thompson, a chap with an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of Thai food, opened Long Chim in Soho. It’s a place that really aims to show you what Thai cooking is like back home, without watering anything down for us Westerners. You can tell they’ve put a lot of thought into getting the flavours just right, using traditional methods.
When you go, you absolutely have to try the Massaman curry. It’s got this incredible depth to it, a real slow-cooked richness that’s hard to beat. And then there are the grilled Isaan sausages – they’re a bit tangy, packed with herbs, and honestly, they just transport you straight to the streets of northeastern Thailand. It’s the kind of food that makes you forget you’re in London for a bit.
Here’s a little peek at what makes Long Chim special:
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 here 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. Farang
Farang, tucked away in Highbury, is Sebby Holmes's own creation, and it's a real find. It actually started as a pop-up, but people liked it so much it became a permanent spot. Sebby really knows his Thai food; he used to work at The Begging Bowl and then Smoking Goat before opening his own place. It's even picked up a Michelin Bib Gourmand for five years running, which is pretty good going.
What makes Farang stand out 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 special:
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.
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.
Farang demonstrates real courage in not compromising flavours for western palates. Their moo hong (Phuket-style braised pork) is exactly what you’d find in Thailand’s best shophouse restaurants.
9. Smoking Goat Shoreditch
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. The menu stays true to straightforward flavours, making it a simple yet satisfying place to visit.
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. Supawan Thai Restaurant
Tucked away in the King's Cross area, Supawan Thai Restaurant is a bit of a find. It’s the kind 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.
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 chilli sauce is a game-changer.
Intimate Atmosphere: The family-run nature of the restaurant creates a warm and welcoming vibe.
Supawan really nails the regional dishes, making you feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden culinary secret in the heart of London.
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 London's Thai food scene so special?
London has some really fantastic Thai restaurants that give you a true taste of Thailand. Many chefs use fresh ingredients from Britain along with Thai spices to create dishes that feel both familiar and exciting. You can find everything from spicy curries to grilled meats, all made with genuine care and skill.
Are these restaurants very expensive?
The restaurants on this list offer a range of prices, so there are options for different budgets. Some are more casual and affordable, while others might be a bit pricier, but all are chosen for the great food they serve.
Do I need to book a table in advance?
For many of these popular spots, especially the ones recommended by experts, booking ahead is a really good idea. Places like Kiln and Singburi can get very busy, so reserving a table will save you waiting time.
What kind of Thai food can I expect?
You can expect a wide variety! From fiery Southern Thai dishes and food cooked over open flames to old-style regional cooking and modern takes using British ingredients. It's much more than just the usual Pad Thai or green curry.
Are there any vegetarian options available?
While many Thai dishes traditionally feature meat or fish, most of these restaurants are good at offering vegetarian choices or can adapt dishes. It's always best to check their menu or ask the staff when you visit.
Which restaurant is best for a first-time visitor to Thai food?
For a first-timer wanting to explore beyond the basics, Som Saa or The Begging Bowl are great choices. They offer a good introduction to regional Thai flavours in a welcoming setting, with dishes that are exciting but still approachable.