Craving the aromatic spices and vibrant flavors of Thailand? You don’t need a plane ticket. Brunswick, Melbourne, boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious Thai food scene. Forget the usual suspects – this suburb is brimming with hidden gems and established favorites, each offering a unique taste of Southeast Asia. Brunswick is a hub of culture and this article explores the diverse range of Thai restaurants in Brunswick, helping you discover the perfect spot for your next culinary adventure.
A Taste of Thailand: More Than Just Pad Thai
Before diving into the Brunswick offerings, let’s briefly appreciate the magic of Thai cuisine. It’s a symphony of flavors, carefully balancing sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and sometimes even a hint of bitter. This delicate equilibrium is achieved through the liberal use of fresh herbs and spices like lemongrass, galangal (Thai ginger), fiery chilies, fragrant basil, and kaffir lime leaves. The foundation often includes rice, whether steamed jasmine rice served alongside curries or transformed into delicate rice noodles for Pad Thai and other noodle dishes. Coconut milk adds richness and creaminess, while fish sauce provides a savory depth that defines many Thai dishes.
While Pad Thai might be the most recognizable Thai dish globally, the cuisine extends far beyond this popular stir-fry. From the creamy green curries of central Thailand to the spicy and sour soups of the north, and the seafood-rich dishes of the south, Thai food offers a culinary journey across diverse regions and flavors. Brunswick is where you’ll find just the Thai dishes you’re looking for.
Exploring Brunswick’s Thai Treasures: A Restaurant Roundup
Brunswick is a suburb with plenty of cultural food choices that are sure to satisfy any palette. Here is a list of must try’s.
Thai Emerald: A Tranquil Oasis of Flavor
Nestled on Sydney Road, Thai Emerald provides a tranquil escape from the bustling street. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a calming ambiance, with soft lighting, traditional Thai decor, and the gentle sounds of Thai music. This is a place to unwind and savor the flavors of Thailand.
Thai Emerald, located on Sydney Road, is a treasure trove of flavour and aroma. You can contact Thai Emerald on their website or by looking them up on social media.
The Massaman Curry is an absolute must-try. Slow-cooked beef simmered in a rich and fragrant coconut milk-based curry, infused with cinnamon, star anise, and potatoes, it’s a culinary hug in a bowl. The beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the curry sauce is both comforting and complex. Also, don’t miss the Tom Yum soup, a spicy and sour broth brimming with lemongrass, galangal, chilies, mushrooms, and your choice of protein. The balance of flavors is simply perfect, leaving you wanting more. Their cashew chicken is also a well known favourite.
Expect to pay around twenty to thirty dollars per person for a satisfying meal. Thai Emerald offers both dine-in and takeaway options, and they are also available for delivery through various food delivery platforms. They cater to various dietary needs, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options clearly marked on the menu. This place makes a great first date place or an important date night.
Thai Emerald stands out for its dedication to authentic Thai flavors and its serene atmosphere. It’s a place where you can truly relax and enjoy a delicious meal, away from the hustle and bustle of Brunswick. The friendly service and consistently high-quality food make it a local favorite.
Siam Sensations: Bold Flavors and Lively Atmosphere
Located further down Lygon Street, Siam Sensations offers a more vibrant and energetic dining experience. The decor is modern and stylish, with bold colors and eye-catching artwork. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, perfect for a casual night out with friends.
Reach Siam Sensations on their website or on social media for bookings and more.
The standout dish is the Pad See Ew, a stir-fried noodle dish with broad rice noodles, Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the sauce is savory and slightly sweet, creating a satisfying and flavorful dish. Their pineapple fried rice is a fan favourite that is also vegan friendly. Another popular choice is the Green Curry, which is known for its intense flavors.
Expect to pay around twenty to thirty-five dollars per person. Siam Sensations offers dine-in, takeaway, and delivery options. They also have a fully licensed bar, serving a range of Thai beers and cocktails. They are open late, making it a great spot for a late-night meal. With its lively atmosphere and bold flavors, it’s a place where you can have a fun and memorable dining experience. The generous portions and reasonable prices make it a popular choice for students and young professionals.
Spice & Rice: Brunswick’s Budget-Friendly Gem
Spice & Rice, hidden away on a side street off Sydney Road, is a true hidden gem. This unassuming restaurant offers delicious and authentic Thai food at incredibly affordable prices. Don’t let the simple decor fool you – the food here is packed with flavor.
Spice & Rice offers incredible food and they can be contacted by phone and via social media.
The Boat Noodles are a must-try. This rich and flavorful soup is a staple of Thai street food, featuring rice noodles, beef or pork, blood, spices, and herbs. It’s a unique and intensely flavorful dish that is not for the faint of heart. Another excellent choice is the Pad Kra Pao, a stir-fry with minced meat (chicken, pork, or beef), basil, chilies, garlic, and soy sauce, served with rice and a fried egg. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that is packed with flavor. You can customise how hot you want your meal when ordering and they are known for their generous portions.
Expect to pay around fifteen to twenty-five dollars per person. Spice & Rice is primarily a takeaway restaurant, although they do have a few tables for dine-in. They are a popular choice for students and budget-conscious diners. The focus is on serving delicious and affordable Thai food quickly and efficiently. The authenticity of the flavors and the incredible value make it a local favorite.
Thai Home: Authentic Thai Flavours With a Modern Twist
On the northern side of Brunswick, Thai Home is known for its dishes from generations of family recipes that still impress. Using traditional Thai methods, Thai Home offers home cooked Thai food with the feeling that you are in the country yourself.
Thai Home has a website as well as offering direct bookings over the phone.
Thai Home’s Massaman beef is to die for. With melt-in-your-mouth texture with a rich and fragrant curry, it makes the restaurant a well known choice for locals. Their Pad See Ew is also a popular choice for a quick lunch or dinner. Thai Home also has vegetarian options so everyone is included.
Thai Home is a great choice for families or romantic dinners and the prices range from twenty to thirty-five dollars. The takeaway options are also well known for their cheap and fast qualities.
Beyond the Restaurants: Exploring Other Thai Food Options
While Brunswick boasts a fantastic selection of Thai restaurants, there are other ways to experience Thai cuisine in the area.
For those who enjoy cooking at home, Amsons Grocery on Sydney Road is a great place to find authentic Thai ingredients. From fresh lemongrass and galangal to dried chilies and various types of curry paste, you’ll find everything you need to create your own Thai masterpieces. Look out for the wide selection of Thai sauces and condiments, which can add an extra layer of flavor to your dishes.
Unfortunately, there are no currently operating Thai cooking classes in Brunswick or its immediate surrounds.
Tips for Ordering Thai Food Like a Pro
Navigating a Thai menu can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the cuisine. Here are a few tips to help you order with confidence:
- Spice Levels: Thai restaurants often use a spice scale ranging from mild to very hot. Don’t be afraid to ask your server for guidance. If you’re not used to spicy food, it’s best to start with a mild or medium level. Remember that “Thai hot” can be significantly spicier than what you might expect.
- Dietary Restrictions: Thai cuisine can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary restrictions. Be sure to inform your server if you are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have any other allergies or intolerances. Many Thai restaurants offer tofu as a protein substitute and can adjust dishes to be gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Common Thai Phrases: Learning a few basic Thai phrases can enhance your dining experience. For example, “Aroi mak mak” means “very delicious,” and “Mai phet” means “not spicy.”
- Takeaway and Delivery: Most Thai restaurants in Brunswick offer takeaway and delivery services. Check their websites or use popular food delivery apps to place your order. Some restaurants may offer discounts for direct orders or for pick-up.
Brunswick’s Thai Food Scene: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Brunswick’s Thai food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors, offering something for everyone. From the tranquil ambiance of Thai Emerald to the lively atmosphere of Siam Sensations and the budget-friendly delights of Spice & Rice, there’s a Thai restaurant in Brunswick to suit every taste and budget. Don’t be afraid to explore beyond the well-known dishes and discover the hidden gems that this culinary scene has to offer.
So, next time you’re craving Thai food, skip the usual takeaway and head to Brunswick. Explore the delicious options highlighted in this guide, and you’re sure to discover your new favorite Thai restaurant. Happy eating and embrace the journey of discovery of all things thai!
