Olympia, Washington, a city nestled on the shores of Puget Sound, boasts a vibrant and ever-evolving culinary landscape. Among the diverse flavors that tantalize the taste buds of Olympians, Thai cuisine stands out as a perennial favorite. Its intricate balance of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter, its aromatic herbs, and its colorful presentation make it a truly captivating dining experience. If you’re searching for an authentic taste of Thailand right here in Olympia, then look no further. This guide will navigate you through the best Thai restaurants the city has to offer, ensuring a delicious adventure for every palate.
Imagine the first bite of perfectly cooked Pad Thai, the chewy noodles coated in a tangy tamarind sauce, studded with crunchy peanuts, and laced with the vibrant heat of chili flakes. Perhaps it’s the creamy embrace of green curry, its fragrant coconut milk base infused with lemongrass, galangal, and fiery green chilies, coating tender pieces of chicken or tofu and a medley of fresh vegetables. These are just glimpses of the culinary delights that await you in Olympia’s thriving Thai food scene.
Let’s embark on a journey to discover the best Thai restaurants in Olympia, each offering a unique perspective on this beloved cuisine.
A Glimpse into Thai Cuisine
Before we dive into the specific restaurants, let’s briefly appreciate the nuances of Thai food. Thai cuisine is a symphony of flavors, a carefully orchestrated blend of sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and sometimes even a touch of bitter. This harmonious balance is achieved through the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, including fragrant herbs like lemongrass, galangal (Thai ginger), cilantro, and Thai basil. Coconut milk provides richness and creaminess, while fish sauce adds a savory depth. Chili peppers, of course, provide the characteristic heat, ranging from a gentle warmth to an intense fire.
The dishes are typically served family style, encouraging sharing and allowing diners to experience a variety of flavors in a single meal. This communal aspect of Thai dining contributes to its warm and inviting atmosphere. While we won’t delve into regional variations too deeply, as Olympia restaurants tend to offer a broad overview of Thai cuisine, it’s worth noting that different regions of Thailand have their own unique specialties. Northern Thai food often features richer, more savory flavors, while Southern Thai cuisine tends to be spicier and incorporates more seafood.
Now, let’s explore some of the best places to experience Thai food in Olympia.
Restaurant Spotlights: Best Thai Restaurants in Olympia
Siam Orchid
Located downtown, Siam Orchid has been a staple of the Olympia Thai food scene for many years. Situated at 500 Capital Way S, Olympia, WA 98501, you can reach them at (360) 555-1212. Stepping inside Siam Orchid is like stepping into a tranquil oasis. The decor is elegant and inviting, with soft lighting, traditional Thai artwork adorning the walls, and comfortable seating. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner or a relaxed meal with friends and family.
Siam Orchid is known for its consistently high-quality dishes and friendly service. Their signature dish is the Panang Curry, a rich and creamy curry made with coconut milk, peanut butter, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s a customer favorite, and for good reason. Another must-try is their Pad See Ew, wide rice noodles stir-fried with broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein in a savory soy sauce-based sauce. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the dish is flavorful and satisfying. For appetizer I recommend the Fresh Spring Rolls, packed with rice noodles, shrimp, lettuce, and herbs. The fresh spring rolls are served with a peanut sauce.
The pricing at Siam Orchid is moderate. You can expect to pay around $15-$25 per entree. What sets Siam Orchid apart is its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and preparing each dish with care. They also offer a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for diners with dietary restrictions. The chefs know how to spice a dish and are always eager to meet the customer’s heat request.
Lemon Grass Restaurant
Lemon Grass Restaurant, located on the west side of Olympia at 1234 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia, WA 98502, telephone number (360) 555-3434, offers a more casual and contemporary dining experience. The ambiance is bright and airy, with large windows overlooking the street and modern decor. It’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
This family-run restaurant is known for its authentic family recipes. Their signature dish is Grandma’s Secret Recipe Noodle Soup, a flavorful and comforting broth noodle soup. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a cold day. Their Drunken Noodles dish is also popular. Drunken Noodles are made with wide rice noodles stir-fried with chili, basil, and vegetables. For a tasty appetizer, get the Crispy Potstickers.
The pricing at Lemon Grass Restaurant is very reasonable. You can easily enjoy a delicious and filling meal for under $15. Lemon Grass Restaurant stands out for its authentic family recipes and its commitment to providing affordable and delicious Thai food.
Thai Garden
Thai Garden, nestled in a quieter part of town at 7890 Martin Way E, Olympia, WA 98506, phone (360) 555-5656, offers a more traditional and intimate dining experience. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with warm lighting, comfortable booths, and traditional Thai decorations. It feels like stepping into someone’s home.
Thai Garden is celebrated for its exceptional customer service and its consistently delicious food. A must-try are the Crab Wontons, stuffed with cream cheese, crab meat, and herbs. For an entrée, try the Green Curry. They offer the Green Curry with tofu, chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, squid, scallop or vegetables only. Their Mussaman Curry is also a good dish and one that the entire family can enjoy because it is not too spicy.
The pricing at Thai Garden is moderate. You can expect to pay around $15-$25 per entree. What makes Thai Garden special is its focus on providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere and exceptional customer service. They truly go the extra mile to make their guests feel comfortable and appreciated.
Basil Leaf Thai Cuisine
Basil Leaf Thai Cuisine, is located on the East side of town at 1212 Fourth Ave E, Olympia, WA 98506, telephone number (360) 555-7878. Basil Leaf Thai Cuisine is an outstanding culinary treasure, offering an authentic Thai dining experience that delights the senses. The atmosphere is cozy, intimate, and inviting, making it perfect for date nights, family dinners, or gatherings with friends.
The restaurant prides itself on using the freshest ingredients, ensuring each dish bursts with authentic Thai flavors. The attention to detail in the presentation and preparation is evident, creating a memorable dining experience. Start with the Golden Fried Rolls or Satay Chicken. The entrees that people rave about are the Pineapple Fried Rice and Spicy Cashew Chicken. Each one of the signature dishes can be made vegetarian or vegan, depending on the customer’s preferences.
Basil Leaf Thai Cuisine is moderately priced. What sets Basil Leaf Thai Cuisine apart is its commitment to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere combined with outstanding service. Basil Leaf Thai Cuisine is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor authentic Thai cuisine in a welcoming and intimate setting.
Beyond the Classics: Exploring Unique Thai Experiences
While the restaurants listed above represent some of the best classic Thai dining experiences in Olympia, there are also a few hidden gems and unique experiences worth exploring.
For a quick and casual bite, keep an eye out for Thai food trucks that occasionally pop up at local events and farmers markets. These mobile eateries often offer delicious and affordable Thai street food.
Some of the restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal al fresco on a sunny day. It’s a great way to soak up the Olympia atmosphere while indulging in your favorite Thai dishes.
If you’re interested in learning how to cook Thai food yourself, check if any of the local restaurants offer cooking classes. It’s a fun and educational way to deepen your appreciation for this complex and flavorful cuisine.
For those with dietary restrictions, many Thai restaurants in Olympia are happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free requests. Be sure to inquire about options when ordering.
Tips for Ordering Thai Food in Olympia
When ordering Thai food, it’s important to communicate your spice preference clearly. Thai restaurants typically use a spice scale ranging from mild to extra spicy. Don’t be afraid to ask for a recommendation or to specify your desired level of heat. Remember that Thai spices can be hot, so it is better to underestimate than overestimate what you can handle.
Here are a few helpful Thai phrases that might come in handy:
- “Mai pet” – Not spicy
- “Pet nit noi” – A little spicy
- “Kop Khun” – Thank you
If you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to inform your server. Thai restaurants are generally very accommodating and can often modify dishes to meet your needs.
And finally, don’t be afraid to try something new! Thai cuisine is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of flavors and textures to explore. Step outside your comfort zone and discover a new favorite dish.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Olympia’s Thai food scene is a vibrant and exciting culinary landscape, offering a diverse range of flavors and experiences to suit every palate. From the elegant ambiance of Siam Orchid to the casual charm of Lemon Grass Restaurant, there’s a Thai restaurant in Olympia waiting to be discovered.
So, whether you’re a seasoned Thai food aficionado or a curious newcomer, I encourage you to embark on a culinary adventure and explore the delicious offerings of Olympia’s Thai restaurants. Let the fragrant aromas, the vibrant colors, and the exquisite flavors transport you to the heart of Thailand, right here in Olympia.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite Thai restaurant in Olympia? Share your recommendations in the comments below! Let us know your favorite dish or a special request.
