Best Thai Restaurants in the DMV

 

The District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area has blossomed into a culinary hotspot, with its Thai food scene experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity and diversity. From hidden gems specializing in regional delicacies to trendy eateries offering a complete sensory experience, the region boasts a treasure trove of authentic and innovative Thai restaurants. Whether you're craving the fiery kick of a papaya salad, the comforting warmth of khao soi, or the decadent richness of crab curry, the DMV's Thai restaurants have something to tantalize every palate.

This guide will take you on a culinary journey through the most standout Thai establishments in the DMV, exploring their unique offerings, signature dishes, and the stories behind their success.

A Symphony of Flavors: Exploring the DMV's Thai Culinary Landscape

The DMV's Thai restaurant scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse culinary influences, showcasing the breadth and depth of Thai cuisine. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene villages of Northern Thailand, these restaurants bring authentic flavors and regional specialties to the heart of the East Coast.

A Feast for the Senses: Trendy and Theatrical Dining Experiences

• Thai Chef: Step into a world of vibrant colors and whimsical decor at Thai Chef. Inspired by the bustling night markets of Bangkok, this Dupont mainstay, with its Rockville expansion, offers a theatrical dining experience. From the eye-catching aquamarine walls to the ornate metal sculptures and merry-go-round horses, Thai Chef captivates diners with its unique ambiance. The menu, curated by Bangkok native Pornnapa Pongpornprot and her daughter Chalisa Fitts, features crowd-pleasing dishes like the Crying Tiger steak, "after-school" wontons, and the aptly named "D.U.I." drunken noodles. Don't miss the crabmeat fried rice, a decadent indulgence that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors.
• Tiki Thai: For a festive and tropical dining experience, look no further than Tiki Thai. This restaurant specializes in creative tiki cocktails, served in colorful glassware that you can even purchase. The food menu complements the vibrant drinks with Thai-influenced pu pu platters and Thai tacos, such as the coconut shrimp with tamarind garlic sauce. Traditional Thai dishes like yellow curry and drunken noodles are also available, along with unique offerings like Thai ramen soups. The light-filled dining space and large bar create a lively and inviting atmosphere.
• Rimtang: This new and flashy Thai street food restaurant is presented from the Yume Sushi group. The menu has a wide range of offerings from steamed fish curry to hot and spicy pork ribs. This restaurant is sure to make a splash in the DMV.
• Sura Restaurant: Former sushi chef Billy Thammasathiti and his aunt, known for their popular Fat Nomads supper club, have created a Thai street food haven at Sura Restaurant. The 50-seat eatery features a menu of quail egg wontons, spicy salmon crudo, and wok-tossed tom yum noodles with roasted chile jam. The red-lit corner bar, reminiscent of Bangkok's nightlife, serves up creative cocktails like passionfruit daiquiris and Sichuan baijiu concoctions, crafted by Andy Thammasathiti of Baltimore’s Mayuree Thai Tavern.
• Soi 38: Owners Nat Ongsangkoon and Dia Khanthongthip, both natives of Bangkok, have infused Soi 38 with the vibrant energy of their hometown. The downtown restaurant's stylish design and creative cocktails are perfectly complemented by dishes like fried sun-dried beef, honey-roasted duck, goong kratiem (crispy shrimp), and slow-roasted pork belly.

Credits: Soi38

Regional Delights: Exploring the Diverse Flavors of Thailand

• Esaan: This hidden gem in McLean specializes in Northeastern Thai cuisine, known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients. The kitchen's flair for presentation is evident in dishes like steamed fish in a Thai hot pot, marinated minced pork sausage, head-on spicy prawns, and soft shell crab entrees. The whimsical menu features a "somtom bar" with a variety of papaya salads and other smashed vegetable dishes, as well as an extensive cocktail list.
• Donsak Thai Restaurant: Named after Thailand's seafood-centric city, Donsak Thai Restaurant in Woodley Park offers a welcoming atmosphere and authentic flavors. Chef Supisa Teawbut, a Beau Thai alum, and Boontom Ratana, former chef at Arlington's Urban Thai, have created a menu that honors Esaan-style cooking, with dishes like grilled pork neck, Om curry, and spiced sausage.
• Baan Siam: Chef Jeeraporn Poksupthong has relocated her popular Logan Circle restaurant, Baan Thai, to a larger space in Mount Vernon Triangle, now called Baan Siam. Diners can expect unapologetically spicy Northern Thai dishes, including the beloved khao soi, a yellow curry with crunchy egg noodles and chicken thighs. Other standout dishes include spicy green mango salad and tapioca skin dumplings. The restaurant also offers a popular happy hour with discounts on drinks and bar snacks.
• Padaek Arlington Ridge: Chef Seng Luangrath, known for her acclaimed Falls Church restaurant, has expanded to Arlington with Padaek Arlington Ridge, focusing on both Lao and regional Thai cuisine. The menu features familiar favorites like noodle dishes, curries, and comforting noodle soups like khao piak sen, as well as rice dishes like spicy khao paad ka pao. The new logo prominently features the marinating jars used to make their famous fermented fish sauce.

Credits: Arlington Magazine

Classic Comforts and Local Favorites

• Ruan Thai Restaurant: A Wheaton institution since 1998, Ruan Thai Restaurant has cemented the neighborhood's reputation as a Thai food destination. The menu features classic dishes like fried watercress with shrimp, squid, cashews, and spicy lime dressing. Reservations are recommended and can be made by phone.
• Tiki Garden Thai Street Food: This charming corner spot on H Street NE offers a wide range of Thai dishes, from veggie or rocket shrimp spring rolls and chive dumplings to minced laab and papaya salads. The menu also includes noodles, fried rice, curries, and stir-fry dishes.
• Kao Sarn Thai Street Food: Located in Falls Church's Eden Center, Kao Sarn Thai Street Food stands out among the predominantly Vietnamese restaurants. The menu features strong renditions of dishes like boat noodle soup, sun-dried beef, and crab fried rice, as well as a substantial selection of vegan options.
• Elephant Jumps: A longtime favorite in Merrifield, Elephant Jumps is known for its high spice levels and flavorful dishes. Standout options include most soups, a Thai play on spaghetti, crab curry, and the sen yai ladd na moo mug, which combines marinated pork, rice noodles, pickled pepper, and Chinese broccoli.
• Thai Square: Consistency is the hallmark of this Arlington Thai mainstay. The menu features popular dishes like curries and chicken satay, as well as unique offerings like sweetened shredded fish and pig knuckle stew.
• Duangrat's Thai Restaurant: Located off Route 7, Duangrat's Thai Restaurant is one of the oldest Thai restaurants in the area. The menu features an extensive selection of appetizers, salads, and seafood dishes, including cod spiked with mango and an entire fried rockfish. The upstairs has been rebranded as One Night in Bangkok, specializing in Thai street food.

The DMV's Thai restaurant scene is a testament to the region's diverse culinary landscape. From trendy eateries to hidden gems, these restaurants offer a tantalizing array of flavors and experiences. Whether you're a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the DMV's Thai restaurants are sure to leave you craving more.