Introduction
The aroma of lemongrass, ginger, and chili hangs in the air, a tantalizing promise of the exotic flavors to come. Close your eyes for a moment, and you might just imagine yourself transported to the bustling streets of Bangkok. But you don’t need a passport; some of the most authentic and delicious Thai restaurants are right here in New Jersey, waiting to take your taste buds on a vibrant adventure. From the bustling urban centers to the quieter suburban neighborhoods, the Garden State offers a surprising wealth of Thai culinary experiences.
Thai cuisine is more than just Pad Thai (though we love Pad Thai!). It’s a symphony of flavors, a delicate dance of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and umami that invigorates the senses. The foundation of most dishes rests on fresh ingredients: fragrant herbs like basil, cilantro, and mint; fiery chilies; creamy coconut milk; and the unmistakable tang of fish sauce or soy sauce. These elements are carefully balanced to create dishes that are both satisfying and incredibly complex. Beyond the well-known classics like Tom Yum soup and green curry, lies a world of regional specialties and innovative creations just waiting to be discovered. This guide will help you uncover the best Thai food in NJ, highlighting spots known for authenticity, ambiance, value, and unique culinary twists. Get ready to spice up your life!
Northern Delights: Exploring Thai Flavors Up North
North Jersey boasts a diverse range of Thai restaurants, reflecting the region’s cosmopolitan population and adventurous palates. From simple, no-frills eateries to elegantly decorated dining rooms, you’ll find options to suit every taste and budget.
Let’s start with Sawasdee Thai Restaurant in Fort Lee. This establishment has garnered a devoted following for its consistently excellent food and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The star of the show is their Pad See Ew, a stir-fried noodle dish with Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein. The noodles are perfectly cooked, the sauce is savory and slightly sweet, and the overall dish is simply addictive. Sawasdee Thai is also a fantastic option for those seeking authentic Thai curries; their Massaman curry, with its rich and complex flavor profile, is a must-try.
Next up is Ayara Thai Cuisine in Montclair, a restaurant that truly elevates the Thai dining experience. With its sleek décor and sophisticated menu, Ayara offers a more refined take on traditional Thai dishes. Their standout dish is the Pla Nueng Manow, a steamed whole fish topped with a vibrant and zesty lime sauce. The fish is incredibly fresh and flaky, and the sauce adds a bright and refreshing kick. Ayara is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Finally, for a more casual but equally satisfying experience, try Bangkok Kitchen in Bloomfield. This is a local favorite known for its generous portions and reasonable prices. Their Green Curry is a standout, made with fresh green chilies, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, and your choice of protein. The curry is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Bangkok Kitchen is a perfect spot for a quick and delicious Thai lunch or dinner. North Jersey seems to lean towards delivering those comforting flavors that make you feel like you are eating at home.
Central Jersey’s Spice Route: A Thai Food Odyssey
Moving down to Central Jersey, the Thai food scene continues to impress, offering a blend of traditional and modern interpretations of classic dishes.
Thai Basil in New Brunswick is a popular choice among Rutgers University students and locals alike, thanks to its vibrant atmosphere and consistently good food. Their Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) are a perennial favorite, featuring wide rice noodles stir-fried with basil, chilies, vegetables, and your choice of protein. The dish is spicy, flavorful, and guaranteed to wake up your taste buds. Thai Basil also offers a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for diners with dietary restrictions.
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, head to Lotus Thai Restaurant in Princeton. This elegant restaurant boasts a beautifully decorated dining room and a menu filled with creative and innovative Thai dishes. Their standout dish is the Panang Curry, a rich and creamy coconut milk-based curry with bell peppers, basil, and your choice of protein. The curry is perfectly balanced, with a hint of sweetness and a subtle spicy kick. Lotus Thai is also known for its excellent service and extensive wine list.
For a taste of authentic street food, don’t miss Taste of Thai in Edison. This unassuming restaurant specializes in traditional Thai dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their Tom Yum soup is a must-try, a spicy and sour broth brimming with lemongrass, galangal, lime leaves, and mushrooms. The soup is both comforting and invigorating, perfect for a cold day or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. There is a healthy selection of Thai restaurants in the area to choose from, but these stand out as a few fan favorites.
Southern Comfort: Thai Treasures Down South
South Jersey may be known for its beaches and boardwalks, but it also offers a surprisingly diverse and delicious Thai food scene.
Thai Square in Cherry Hill is a longtime favorite known for its consistently good food and friendly service. Their Pad Thai is a classic, made with rice noodles, shrimp, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. The dish is perfectly balanced and always satisfying. Thai Square also offers a wide selection of curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes, making it a great choice for families and groups.
For a more modern and stylish dining experience, try Indo Thai Restaurant in Marlton. This restaurant boasts a sleek and contemporary décor and a menu filled with creative and innovative Thai dishes. Their standout dish is the Pineapple Fried Rice, a sweet and savory dish featuring rice, shrimp, chicken, pineapple, raisins, and cashews served in a hollowed-out pineapple. The dish is visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Indo Thai is also known for its creative cocktails and extensive wine list.
Finally, for a taste of authentic Thai street food, don’t miss Siam Cuisine in Voorhees. This unassuming restaurant specializes in traditional Thai dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their Green Curry is a must-try, a spicy and creamy coconut milk-based curry with bamboo shoots, eggplant, and your choice of protein. The curry is packed with flavor and guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out. South Jersey may not be the first place that comes to mind when craving Thai food, but don’t sleep on these options for fantastic Thai food in NJ!
Beyond the Classics: Exploring Lesser-Known Thai Delights
While Pad Thai and green curry are undeniably delicious, the world of Thai cuisine is so much more than just these familiar favorites. Venture beyond the usual suspects and you’ll discover a treasure trove of lesser-known dishes that are equally rewarding.
Consider trying Khao Soi, a Northern Thai noodle soup with a rich and creamy coconut curry broth, soft egg noodles, and crispy fried noodles on top. This dish is a true symphony of textures and flavors, offering a comforting warmth with a satisfying crunch.
Another excellent option is Gaeng Keow Wan Gai, also known as Green Curry Chicken. While many restaurants offer green curry, seeking out a truly authentic version will elevate your experience. Look for versions made with fresh green chilies, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, resulting in a vibrant and intensely flavorful dish.
Of course, no exploration of Thai cuisine would be complete without mentioning Mango Sticky Rice, a classic Thai dessert made with sweet sticky rice, fresh mango slices, and a drizzle of coconut milk. This dessert is the perfect way to end a Thai meal, offering a sweet and satisfying conclusion. There are endless possibilities for dessert if Mango Sticky Rice does not strike your fancy!
Thai BYOB Restaurants: Bring Your Own Beverage
For many, enjoying a glass of wine or a cold beer alongside their Thai meal enhances the overall experience. Luckily, New Jersey boasts several excellent Thai BYOB restaurants, allowing you to bring your favorite beverages to enjoy with your meal without the inflated prices of a liquor license.
Spice Paradise in Hackensack is a fantastic BYOB option, known for its extensive menu and flavorful dishes. Their Tom Kha soup is a must-try, a creamy coconut milk soup with lemongrass, galangal, mushrooms, and your choice of protein. The soup is both comforting and flavorful, and pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine.
Thai Amarin in Metuchen is another excellent BYOB choice, praised for its authentic Thai cuisine and friendly service. Their Massaman Curry is a standout, a rich and complex curry with potatoes, peanuts, and your choice of protein. The curry pairs well with a robust red wine or a hoppy IPA.
Little Thai Kitchen in Collingswood, offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The food is authentic, flavorful, and reasonably priced, with a wide variety of options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for noodles, rice, curry, or seafood, there’s something for everyone on the menu. The menu is expansive and the flavors are top tier so you are sure to find something to pair perfectly with your drink of choice.
A Culinary Journey Concludes
The Thai food scene in NJ is a vibrant and exciting landscape, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences to suit every taste and budget. From the bustling urban eateries of North Jersey to the cozy suburban gems of Central and South Jersey, you’re sure to find a Thai restaurant that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the heart of Thailand.
So, the next time you’re craving the complex and satisfying flavors of Thai cuisine, skip the plane ticket and head to one of these fantastic restaurants in New Jersey. Explore beyond the familiar classics, try new dishes, and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll discover a whole new world of culinary delights. Now go forth and enjoy the best Thai food in NJ!
