The tastiest Thai food in London

The idea for The Begging Bowl was born from a passion for Thai food and the symbolic significance of the begging bowl and giving alms that are associated with the beginning of one’s nirvana journey. Not to sound too cliché, but as you step into the restaurant, you can be sure to achieve that perfect bliss with how much attention to detail it has and how friendly the service is.

As far as the food is concerned, the experience is truly authentic: ingredients are sourced fresh and strike a balance between so many unique Thai flavours, which is what we love this cuisine for. In line with traditions, you can expect a sense of community and sharing plates that come with dishes such as a broth with mushrooms, tofu, sea rosemary and rock samphire, or fish grilled in curry paste and wrapped in a banana leaf. Of course, there’s a lot more for your palate to enjoy but we don’t want to spoil it for you. Head there to find out for yourself. You won’t regret it.

Drawing on 30 years of experience, Mai Thai Deli is the place where tradition meets a modern approach. The original recipes are home-cooked with a special focus on the ‘green’ value and locally sourced ingredients.

The menu reflects how versatile Thai food is and that a lot depends on personal preference. For example, as an appetiser, you can nibble on spicy prawn crackers with plum sauce or try something more unique like deep-fried chicken wings marinated in salt, lemon grass and lime leaves. For the main, you can choose from soups and salads, Thai curries, stir fry and grill, fish, noodles and rice dishes. Another highlight is the venue’s plant-filled space that creates a cosy atmosphere that allows you to unwind and fully focus on this culinary experience.

If you’re already wondering how you’ll be able to handle so much spice, consider washing it all down with a glass of sweet wine. Visit the restaurant on a Tuesday when you can expect 50 per cent off bottles.

Whether you miss travels spent in Thailand or simply have an affinity for Thai cuisine, you don’t have to travel far to get a taste of its incredible cuisine. Located in Stoke Newington, a short walk from Abney Park, Yum Yum offers an award-winning authentic experience that will satisfy every foodie. If you’re looking for a place suitable for a celebration or a family get together, the venue also specialise in planning events for big groups. But if you want to spend a lowkey evening by yourself, that’s fine too – thanks to the cosy atmosphere and friendly service you won’t feel out of place.

The menu is divided into several categories: appetisers, soups, salads, meat dishes, Thai curries, fish, rice and noodles, seafood and vegetarian dishes. For those who aren’t too familiar with Thai cuisine, staff will be happy to give you recommendations but no matter what you go for, you can expect to get out of your comfort zone in a good way. And a bonus: you can enjoy a happy hour every weekday between 5:30 – 7:30 pm.

Giggling Squid is all about the spirit of Thai mealtimes – plentiful dishes, exotic ingredients and bold flavours to be enjoyed with your favourite people. Lunch or dinner – inside or under open sky – Giggling Squid offers Thai favourites to suit any mood. The adventurous menus feature ingredients found only in Thailand, while expert Thai chefs also cook up classics such as Thai Green Curry, Pad Thai and the signature Salt & Pepper Squid, alongside a popular lunch Thai tapas set and vegan menu. Guests are welcomed with bright, vibrant interiors, bold florals and cosy banquettes, so all of Giggling Squid’s restaurants are a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Found tucked into the bustling Tooting Hightstree, Kaosarn is a laidback eatery serving up rustic, homecooked Thai fare. Modelled off of Bangkok’s Kaosarn Road, a first port of call for travellers to the major city, Kaosarn offers up authentic Thai street food dishes from drunken noodles, pad Thai, and spring rolls to more intricate plates such as their fried battered tilapia fillets and seabass with mango salad. You’ll no doubt find all of your favourite Thai dishes at Kaosarn, while also discovering brand new flavours you’ve never experienced. A win-win in our books!

Though not strictly Thai, Chi on New Oxford Street is dishing up Thai dishes amongst their extensive pan Asian menu. The space is light and airy, perfect for those friend catch-ups or family-friendly dinners.

Our Thai favourites from the menu include the classic pad Thai with either chicken, prawns, or veggies, as well as the Thai fried rice, coconut curry, Thai green curry, satay chicken, and beef rendang curry. Chi also offers up some of the best cocktails we’ve found at pan Asian spot, so you can really indulge during your visit.

Having opened their doors more than 20 years ago, way back in 2003, Thai Taste in Kensington knows a thing or two about Thai food, that’s for sure. Understanding the delicate balance between spices herbs, roots, and leaves in Thai cooking, Thai Taste really nails the authenticity of each dish. Served up in an unpretentious but charming environment, the neighbourhood gem has been kept a secret by the residents of Kensington for far too long.

The menu is a la carte, topped with the chef’s recommendations including the Weeping Tiger (marinated sirloin steak), the roast duck, stir fried crispy soft shell crabs in a yellow curry sauce, and the chargrilled marinated pork neck. The rest of the menu spans multiple pages, with extensive choices you’ll be sure to find something that takes your fancy. Paired with any of the classic cocktails on the menu, you’re away laughing!