Stepping into this Northern Thai restaurant, you’re immediately enveloped in an ambiance that brilliantly captures the spirit of Thailand. Since its opening in 2015, Thai District has mastered the art of blending opulent decor with intimate dining experiences. Red walls adorned with traditional Thai artwork and intricately detailed statues set the stage for a culinary journey.
The seating varies from cozy booths lined with plush cushions to communal tables under a dark wood archway that frames the bustling scene outside. Each lighting fixture, from delicate lanterns to bold, basket-like lamps, casts a warm and inviting glow, enhancing the cozy yet exotic atmosphere.
Our evening was made even more delightful by our servers, Erik and Molly, who were attentive and knowledgeable, elevating our dining experience with their exceptional service.
I have my usual favorite Thai dishes, but tonight I indulged in a variety of new ones, each presenting a symphony of flavors that are both traditional and innovative. The appetizers set the stage. The grilled beef salad was a vibrant start, balancing succulent beef with a crisp assortment of greens and vegetables, all beautifully garnished.
Equally impressive were the Thai crispy rolls. Their golden exteriors crunched open to reveal a tender mix of root vegetables and glass noodles, paired with a tangy pineapple dipping sauce that added depth to each bite.
However, it was the pineapple curry that stole my heart. The sweetness of the pineapple melded perfectly with the savory depth of the curry spices, and a surprise ingredient — black grapes — all creating a harmonious blend that was both refreshing and rich.
The main courses continued to impress, with the Kao Soi offering a coconut-infused curry broth filled with tender chicken and topped with crispy noodles, providing a delightful texture contrast. The Hung Lay pork curry was a revelation, with its slight gingery sweetness and complex spice blend that slow-cooked into the tender pork, offering layers of flavor. All of their dishes can be ordered with your preference of spiciness.
Accompanying these were perfectly cooked varieties of rice — late harvest Jasmine, heirloom brown, and heirloom sticky rice — each enhancing the dishes with their unique textures and flavors.
The evening concluded on a high note with a vanilla soufflé that was as beautiful as it was flavorful and accompanied by a silky sauce that enhanced the rich vanilla essence.
The beverage menu, with its thoughtful selection of wines, craft cocktails, and traditional drinks like Thai iced tea, complemented our meal beautifully, ensuring that every bite was paired with the perfect sip.
My visit to this Thai restaurant was not just a meal but a memorable journey through tastes and traditions. With dishes like the unforgettable pineapple curry and the exemplary service, I am eagerly looking forward to my next visit to explore more of what this remarkable venue has to offer.
Other Menu suggestions
The Northern/Chiang Mai menu at this restaurant presents a vibrant assortment of Thai dishes, blending traditional flavors with innovative twists. The variety caters to all tastes, ensuring a delightful dining experience for every guest.
Appetizers: T.D. Shishito Peppers and Thai District dumplings showcase creative uses of classic ingredients
Soups: Potak mixed seafood soup
Salads: The spicy shrimp salad highlights the freshness of organic, locally sourced produce.
Main Courses: Pad Thai and Drunken Noodle. Each dish is carefully prepared to emphasize the natural flavors enhanced by authentic Thai seasonings.
Thai District, 149 Linden Ave., is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; Friday 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Saturday noon to 10:30 p.m. The restaurant is closed Mondays.