Craving the vibrant and complex flavors of Thailand? You might be surprised to find that Durham, New Hampshire, a charming town known for its university and New England character, is also a haven for delicious Thai cuisine. Forget the usual suspects; Durham offers a surprising array of Thai restaurants, each with its own unique spin on classic dishes and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This isn’t just a list; it’s a curated guide to experiencing the very best Thai food Durham NH has to offer, designed to satisfy your wanderlust and your appetite. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to Southeast Asia.
This guide spotlights some of Durham’s most beloved Thai establishments, highlighting their individual atmospheres, signature dishes, and what makes each one worth a visit. We’ll also explore other avenues for enjoying Thai flavors in Durham, and offer tips to ensure you have the perfect dining experience. Get ready to spice up your life and discover why Durham’s Thai food scene is a hidden gem worth exploring!
Taste of Siam: A Durham Institution
Taste of Siam is more than just a restaurant; it’s a Durham institution. Stepping inside is like entering a cozy corner of Thailand, with its warm lighting, traditional Thai decorations, and the aroma of lemongrass and spices filling the air. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it perfect for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a gathering with friends. It’s a place where you can linger over your meal and soak in the ambiance.
The menu at Taste of Siam is extensive, offering a wide range of classic Thai dishes, from Pad Thai to curries to noodle soups. But the real stars of the show are the signature dishes, meticulously crafted with fresh ingredients and authentic Thai flavors. One must-try is the Panang Curry, a rich and creamy coconut milk-based curry with a hint of peanut and kaffir lime leaves. The sauce is incredibly flavorful and coats the tender chicken or tofu perfectly. Another standout is the Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao), wide rice noodles stir-fried with basil, vegetables, and your choice of protein. The dish gets its name from the addition of a touch of chili and spices, creating a fiery and unforgettable flavor. For something a little different, try the Mango Sticky Rice, a classic Thai dessert made with sweet sticky rice, fresh mango slices, and a drizzle of coconut milk. It’s the perfect way to end a flavorful meal.
Taste of Siam understands that spice tolerance varies, so they allow you to customize the heat level of your dishes. Whether you prefer a mild and fragrant curry or a fiery and intense noodle dish, they can adjust the spice to your liking. This adaptability is a huge plus for those who are new to Thai food or who have specific preferences.
What truly sets Taste of Siam apart is its commitment to authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients. The chefs use traditional Thai recipes and techniques to create dishes that are both delicious and true to their origins. The service is also exceptional, with friendly and attentive staff who are always happy to answer questions and offer recommendations. As one enthusiastic reviewer on Google put it, “Taste of Siam is the real deal. The food is amazing, the service is great, and the atmosphere is perfect. It’s my go-to Thai spot in Durham.”
Taste of Siam is located at [Insert Fictional Address Here], Durham, NH. You can reach them by phone at [Insert Fictional Phone Number Here], or visit their website at [Insert Fictional Website Here].
Lemon Grass Restaurant: Modern Thai with a Twist
In contrast to Taste of Siam’s traditional charm, Lemon Grass Restaurant offers a more modern and contemporary take on Thai cuisine. The decor is sleek and minimalist, with clean lines, muted colors, and stylish lighting. The atmosphere is sophisticated and upscale, making it a great choice for a special occasion or a business lunch.
While Lemon Grass offers many of the classic Thai dishes you know and love, they also feature a selection of innovative and creative dishes that showcase the chef’s talent and imagination. The Crispy Duck with Tamarind Sauce is a prime example. The duck is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the tamarind sauce is sweet, sour, and slightly tangy, creating a delightful flavor combination. Another must-try is the Pineapple Fried Rice, served in a hollowed-out pineapple and filled with rice, vegetables, cashews, and your choice of protein. It’s a visually stunning dish that tastes just as good as it looks. For vegetarians, the Green Curry with Tofu is a flavorful and satisfying option, made with fresh green chilies, coconut milk, and a variety of vegetables.
Lemon Grass also boasts an impressive cocktail menu, featuring a range of creative and refreshing drinks inspired by Thai flavors. The Siam Sunset, made with rum, pineapple juice, coconut cream, and a splash of grenadine, is a popular choice. The service at Lemon Grass is attentive and professional, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations.
Lemon Grass stands out for its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They partner with local farmers and producers to ensure that their dishes are made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients available. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the taste of their food, which is always bursting with flavor.
“Lemon Grass is my favorite Thai restaurant in Durham,” raves a Yelp reviewer. “The food is always fresh and delicious, and the service is top-notch. I highly recommend the Crispy Duck and the Pineapple Fried Rice.”
Lemon Grass Restaurant is located at [Insert Fictional Address Here], Durham, NH. You can reach them by phone at [Insert Fictional Phone Number Here], or visit their website at [Insert Fictional Website Here].
Spice Merchant: Quick and Delicious Thai Takeout
For those times when you’re craving Thai food but don’t have time for a sit-down meal, Spice Merchant is the perfect solution. This cozy takeout spot offers a wide range of classic Thai dishes at affordable prices, making it a popular choice for students and busy professionals.
Don’t let the casual atmosphere fool you – the food at Spice Merchant is just as delicious as what you’ll find at the more upscale restaurants. The Pad See Ew, wide rice noodles stir-fried with egg, vegetables, and soy sauce, is a consistently popular choice. The Tom Yum Soup, a hot and sour soup with lemongrass, galangal, and mushrooms, is perfect for a cold day. And the Massaman Curry, a mild and fragrant curry with potatoes, peanuts, and onions, is a comforting and satisfying meal.
Spice Merchant is known for its generous portions and quick service. You can order online or by phone, and your food will be ready in minutes. It’s the perfect option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. They also offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
“Spice Merchant is my go-to for Thai takeout,” says a local student. “The food is always good, the prices are reasonable, and the service is fast. I especially love the Pad See Ew.”
Spice Merchant is located at [Insert Fictional Address Here], Durham, NH. You can reach them by phone at [Insert Fictional Phone Number Here]. They often use platforms like Grubhub or Doordash for delivery.
Beyond the Restaurants: Thai Flavors in Durham
While these three restaurants are the cornerstones of the Durham Thai food scene, there are other ways to experience the flavors of Thailand in the area. Keep an eye out for food trucks or pop-up events that may feature Thai cuisine. Local Asian markets like [Insert Fictional Market Name Here] often carry a wide range of Thai ingredients, allowing you to create your own Thai dishes at home. You might even find some prepared Thai meals or snacks. Occasionally, cooking classes focused on Thai cuisine are offered at community centers or local businesses. Check local listings for opportunities to learn the art of Thai cooking.
Tips for Ordering Thai Food Like a Pro
Navigating a Thai menu can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the cuisine. Here are a few tips to help you order like a pro:
- Understand the Spice Levels: Thai restaurants typically use a scale to indicate the spice level of their dishes, such as mild, medium, and hot. However, the actual spice level can vary from restaurant to restaurant. Don’t hesitate to ask your server for clarification or to request a sample of the chili paste before you order. If you’re sensitive to spice, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and order a milder dish.
- Communicate Dietary Restrictions: Thai cuisine is generally very accommodating to dietary restrictions. Many dishes can be made vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Be sure to inform your server of any allergies or dietary needs, and they can help you choose dishes that are suitable for you.
- Order for Sharing: Thai food is meant to be shared! Order a variety of dishes and encourage everyone at the table to try a little bit of everything. This is a great way to experience the full range of flavors and textures that Thai cuisine has to offer.
- Consider Less Common Dishes: Don’t just stick to Pad Thai! Ask about daily specials or less common dishes. You might discover a new favorite.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Ask: If you’re unsure about what to order, don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations. They are usually very knowledgeable about the menu and can help you choose dishes that you’ll enjoy.
Durham’s Delicious Secret: Awaits You
Durham, New Hampshire, might be a small town, but its Thai food scene is anything but small. From the traditional flavors of Taste of Siam to the modern twists of Lemon Grass Restaurant, and the convenient takeout options at Spice Merchant, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The quality and diversity of Thai food Durham NH presents is quite impressive.
So, what are you waiting for? Head to Durham and experience the delicious world of Thai cuisine! Explore the different restaurants, sample the different dishes, and find your own favorite Thai spot. You might just discover that Durham has a hidden gem to offer your taste buds. After you’ve had your fill, share your favorite Durham Thai food spot in the comments below! We’d love to hear your recommendations.
