Introduction
Belfast, Maine, a charming coastal town nestled in the heart of Midcoast Maine, might be known for its picturesque harbor, its vibrant arts scene, and its historic architecture. But beyond the sailboats and the art galleries, Belfast boasts a culinary landscape that’s surprisingly diverse and increasingly exciting. From farm-to-table eateries celebrating Maine’s bounty to cozy cafes serving up comfort food classics, Belfast offers a taste of something for everyone. However, amongst these culinary offerings lies a hidden gem, a flavor that transports you across continents: the authentic and delicious world of Thai food.
Have you ever found yourself craving the fragrant spices, the delicate balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy, the comforting warmth of a perfectly cooked Pad Thai? While Maine might not be the first place that springs to mind when thinking of world-class Thai cuisine, Belfast is proving that delicious surprises can be found in the most unexpected places. The town is home to several unique restaurants, each presenting a unique interpretation of classic Thai flavors.
This article will explore several of the best Thai restaurants in Belfast, highlighting their specialties, ambiance, and overall experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a curious newcomer looking to expand your palate, Belfast has something to offer. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Thailand, right here on the coast of Maine.
Kim’s Thai Kitchen: A Belfast Staple
A Belfast fixture for over a decade, Kim’s Thai Kitchen has quietly and consistently served up authentic and comforting Thai dishes that have won the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Located on Main Street, its unassuming exterior belies the explosion of flavors that await inside. Kim’s Thai Kitchen offers a welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating and friendly service. The decor is simple, yet pleasant, with traditional Thai artwork adorning the walls, creating a relaxed and inviting setting.
The menu at Kim’s Thai Kitchen is extensive, featuring all the classic Thai dishes you would expect, prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. But Kim’s really shines in its consistency and the obvious care put into each dish. One must-try is the Pad Thai, a classic stir-fried noodle dish that’s a staple of Thai cuisine. At Kim’s, the Pad Thai is prepared with rice noodles, shrimp, chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. The balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors is simply perfect, and the generous portion size is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.
For those who prefer something a bit spicier, the Green Curry is a flavorful and aromatic choice. Made with green curry paste, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, eggplant, and basil, this dish packs a serious punch of flavor and heat. You can choose your protein, including chicken, beef, pork, tofu, or shrimp. The creamy coconut milk tempers the spice of the curry paste, creating a harmonious and delicious dish. Kim’s also offers a variety of appetizers, including spring rolls, dumplings, and satay, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light meal. For vegetarian diners, many of the dishes can be prepared with tofu or vegetables.
Kim’s Thai Kitchen is a very reasonably priced eatery with most main dishes falling in the range of ten to fifteen dollars. This affordability, combined with the quality of the food and the friendly service, makes it a popular choice for both lunch and dinner.
“Best Thai in town! Always fresh and flavorful,” reads one review on a popular review website. “The Pad See Ew is my favorite, and the service is always excellent.” Another customer raves, “Kim’s is a hidden gem. The food is authentic, the portions are generous, and the prices are unbeatable.”
My own experience at Kim’s Thai Kitchen was thoroughly enjoyable. The service was prompt and friendly, and the food was absolutely delicious. I ordered the Tom Yum soup, a hot and sour soup with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, mushrooms, and tomatoes. The soup was incredibly flavorful, with a perfect balance of sour, spicy, and savory notes. It was the perfect way to start my meal and whet my appetite for the main course.
Siam Sky: Thai Cuisine with a Modern Flair
In contrast to Kim’s Thai Kitchen’s traditional approach, Siam Sky brings a modern touch to the Thai food scene in Belfast. Located just a short drive from downtown, Siam Sky boasts a sleek and contemporary decor, with stylish furnishings and vibrant artwork. The atmosphere is a bit more upscale than Kim’s, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The restaurant also offers a full bar, serving a selection of Thai-inspired cocktails and local craft beers.
Siam Sky is committed to sourcing local ingredients whenever possible. The menu features classic Thai dishes alongside more innovative creations, showcasing the chef’s creativity and passion for flavor.
One of Siam Sky’s signature dishes is the Mango Sticky Rice Spring Rolls. This creative take on the classic Thai dessert combines the flavors of sweet sticky rice and ripe mango in a crispy spring roll wrapper. The spring rolls are served with a coconut cream dipping sauce, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor. The dish is a testament to Siam Sky’s ability to blend traditional Thai flavors with modern techniques.
Another popular choice is the Panang Curry, a rich and creamy curry made with Panang curry paste, coconut milk, peanuts, bell peppers, and basil. This dish is less spicy than the Green Curry but still packs a flavorful punch. The peanuts add a nutty and satisfying element, while the coconut milk creates a velvety smooth sauce. You can customize the dish with your choice of protein or vegetables.
Siam Sky also offers a wide variety of noodle dishes, including Pad See Ew, Drunken Noodles, and Lo Mein. The noodle dishes are prepared with fresh noodles and a variety of flavorful sauces.
While the prices at Siam Sky are slightly higher than those at Kim’s Thai Kitchen, the quality of the food, the elegant ambiance, and the attentive service make it well worth the extra expense. Most main dishes fall in the range of fifteen to twenty-five dollars.
“Siam Sky is my go-to spot for Thai food in Belfast,” writes one satisfied customer online. “The food is always fresh and delicious, and the service is top-notch. I highly recommend the Mango Sticky Rice Spring Rolls – they’re amazing!” Another reviewer raves, “Siam Sky is a great place for a special occasion. The atmosphere is elegant, the food is delicious, and the service is impeccable.”
I recently dined at Siam Sky and was thoroughly impressed. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, and the service was friendly and attentive. I ordered the Tom Kha soup, a creamy coconut soup with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, mushrooms, and chicken. The soup was incredibly flavorful and comforting. I also tried the Pad See Ew, which was perfectly cooked and seasoned.
Beyond the Restaurants: Exploring Thai Food Culture in Belfast
While Belfast may not have a dedicated Thai grocery store, many of the local supermarkets carry a selection of Thai ingredients, such as coconut milk, curry pastes, fish sauce, and rice noodles. Additionally, several Asian grocery stores in nearby towns offer a wider variety of Thai ingredients. Belfast has an emerging culinary scene, and this has brought an appreciation to the Thai food culture.
The popularity of Thai food in Belfast is a testament to its delicious flavors, its versatility, and its ability to appeal to a wide range of palates. Whether you’re looking for a quick and affordable lunch, a romantic dinner, or a flavorful takeout meal, Belfast’s Thai restaurants have something to offer. The subtle balance between sweet, sour, spicy and savory flavors makes Thai food a highly sought-after choice for the population of Belfast and is a great addition to the culinary options for all.
Conclusion: A Thai Food Oasis on the Maine Coast
Belfast, Maine, might be a small town, but when it comes to Thai food, it punches well above its weight. Both Kim’s Thai Kitchen and Siam Sky offer distinct and delicious experiences, catering to different tastes and preferences. The town’s Thai food scene is a testament to its culinary diversity and its ability to embrace flavors from around the world.
Whether you prefer the classic and comforting dishes of Kim’s Thai Kitchen or the modern and innovative creations of Siam Sky, you’re sure to find a Thai meal that satisfies your cravings. So, next time you find yourself in Belfast, be sure to check out these fantastic Thai restaurants and experience the flavors of Thailand in coastal Maine. Prepare to be surprised by the quality and authenticity of the Thai food scene in this charming Maine town. After all, who would have thought that a taste of Thailand could be found on the coast of Maine?
