If you've been searching for that elusive gastronomic sweet spot in India that isn't afraid of a flavor explosion, Thai food is where you find it. Far from being some sort of niche, exotically indulgent fare, Thai food has firmly secured its place as a mainstream favorite in Indian metros, offering a refreshing and sophisticated counterpoint to the more ubiquitous Chinese offering.

Why is India obsessed with Thai flavors?

Thai food's popularity in India wasn't an accident; it was a perfect cultural fit, driven by a few key factors.

The Indian palate is already conditioned for the complex play of sweet, sour, spicy, and savoury. That "holy trinity" of flavours in Thai food-balancing heat from chillies with tang from lime and sweetness from palm sugar-is at once familiar and excitingly different.

It is but natural that Indians would warm up easily to cuisines that use core ingredients already in vogue in their cookery. The strong presence of coconut milk, chillies, ginger, mint and coriander in Thai food makes it very relatable, especially to South Indian and coastal cuisines.

Increased disposable income and the surge in Indian tourism to Thailand (a major destination) have created a huge demand for authentic Thai flavours back home. What was once experienced on holiday is now craved on a Tuesday night.

Thai food has succeeded in conquering both ends of the market-from being on the menus of luxury hotels offering sophisticated fine dining to being beheld in a middle-tier restaurant, and with delivery applications, that Green Curry fix is just a click away.

A 2019 survey by YouGov reported that almost 65% of the respondents in India liked Thai food strong testament to its high ranking on the national popularity chart. When your local vendor starts stocking galangal and bird's eye chillies, you know a cuisine has gone mainstream.

5 Top Thai Restaurant Choices in Mumbai

If the aroma of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves beckons, Mumbai, a city that loves its food, has some great options.

Thai Pavilion:
The classic fine dining choice and one of the earliest authentic Thai eateries to hit the town, this is a South Mumbai-based diner known for its invariably good food and classy atmosphere. This is the place for a spot of Tom Yum Soup perfection in an upscale environment, if you can afford the steep price tag-₹4,000+ for two.

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Nara Thai
A franchise of the famed Bangkok restaurant in Bandra Kurla Complex-BKC, bringing authentic royal Thai food to Mumbai. Its posh and modern setting at BKC is ideal for business or a chic dinner. They are known for their traditional curries and impeccable presentation. Approx. ₹3,000 for two.

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By: The Mekong (The St. Regis, Lower Parel)
Located in one of Mumbai's most exclusive hotels, this restaurant comes with splendid city views and a stellar Asian menu. While it serves Pan-Asian cuisine, the Thai selection is revered for its high quality and five-star service. Extremely luxurious, and the price for two would be upwards of ₹ 4,000.

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Seefah (Bandra West)
For truly authentic flavours sought in a more relaxed and intimate environment, there's Seefah. Owned by Chef Seefah Ketchaiyo from Bangkok, this smaller restaurant is highly recommended for its genuine Thai Green Curry and desserts like Mango Sticky Rice. This place is a local favourite if you're looking for real, undiluted Thai taste. (Approx. ₹2,000 for two)
Tamnak Thai (Shivaji Park, Dadar)
This place is the most old-school, authentic in this list. It's an established and often underrated choice that focuses on traditional, unpretentious recipes and fresh ingredients. If you're looking for an authentic, no-fuss taste of Thailand, then this is where you want to go in Dadar. (Approx. ₹2,500 for two)

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