What Should I Order at a Thai Restaurant in Toronto Other Than Pad Thai?

 When you're craving Thai food in Toronto, the first dish that often comes to mind is Pad Thai. But, Thai cuisine has so much more to offer than this popular noodle dish. Whether you're a regular at your favorite Thai spot or a first-timer, there are plenty of delicious options to explore. In this article, we'll take you through some mouth-watering Thai food alternatives you can order the next time you’re wondering, “What should I order at a Thai restaurant Toronto?”

1. Tom Yum Soup: A Perfect Start to Your Meal

If you love a good balance of spicy, sour, and savory flavors, Tom Yum soup is the perfect dish to begin your meal. Made with shrimp, mushrooms, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili, Tom Yum delivers that iconic tangy kick that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied. It’s a perfect appetizer before diving into the main courses.

Why Try It?

It’s the perfect balance of flavors and a great introduction to Thai cuisine. The vibrant, fresh herbs give this dish an aromatic quality that enhances every sip.

2. Green Curry: The Creamy and Flavorful Delight

Green curry, or Gaeng Keow Wan, is a Thai classic that packs a punch. Unlike the rich red curry, green curry is made with a blend of green chili, coconut milk, Thai basil, and other spices. It’s served with chicken, beef, or tofu, and usually accompanied by steamed rice. The creaminess of the coconut milk blends beautifully with the heat of the green chilies.

Why Try It?

It’s rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced in flavor. If you enjoy spicy foods with a creamy texture, green curry is a must-try.

3. Massaman Curry: A Fusion of Thai and Indian Flavors

Massaman curry is a unique Thai curry that draws inspiration from Indian cuisine, with its aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cumin. This dish is typically made with tender beef or chicken and potatoes, simmered in a fragrant coconut milk base.

Why Try It?

It’s a heartier curry that’s less spicy than others but packed with deep, rich flavors. If you're looking for something comforting and filling, Massaman curry is your best bet.

4. Som Tum: The Thai Papaya Salad

Som Tum is a Thai papaya salad that combines shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, dried shrimp, chilies, and lime, all tossed together in a tangy and spicy dressing. It’s a fresh, crunchy, and vibrant dish that offers an explosion of flavors with every bite.

Why Try It?

If you love fresh, crisp textures with a burst of tangy, spicy flavors, Som Tum is the way to go. It’s a great side dish that complements richer, heavier dishes like curries or stir-fries.

5. Thai Basil Chicken: Stir-fried with Fresh Basil and Chili

Another popular dish to consider when ordering Thai food near me is Thai Basil Chicken (Pad Krapow Gai). This stir-fry dish is made with minced chicken, Thai basil, and a savory sauce packed with garlic, chilies, and soy sauce. It's often served with rice and topped with a fried egg.

Why Try It?

The combination of Thai basil and chili makes this dish flavorful and aromatic. It’s perfect if you want something savory with a little spice but without overwhelming heat.

6. Thai Satay Skewers: Grilled Meat with Peanut Sauce

For those who love grilled meats, Thai Satay skewers are an excellent option. These skewers are typically made with marinated chicken or beef, grilled to perfection, and served with a rich peanut dipping sauce. It’s a great appetizer or snack.

Why Try It?

The smoky flavor from the grill and the creamy peanut sauce pair perfectly. Satay skewers offer a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors.

7. Pad See Ew: Stir-Fried Noodles with Sweet Soy Sauce

While Pad Thai might be the most popular noodle dish, Pad See Ew is another favorite in Thai restaurants. This dish features flat rice noodles stir-fried with Chinese broccoli, eggs, and your choice of meat, all drenched in a savory sweet soy sauce.

Why Try It?

Pad See Ew is less tangy than Pad Thai and has a richer, more savory flavor. It’s a great alternative if you’re craving something hearty and flavorful without the sweetness of Pad Thai.

8. Crying Tiger: Grilled Beef Served with Spicy Dipping Sauce

Crying Tiger, or Seua Rong Hai, is a Thai-style grilled beef that is juicy and flavorful, often served with a spicy dipping sauce on the side. The beef is grilled to perfection and pairs wonderfully with sticky rice.

Why Try It?

If you enjoy grilled meats with a hint of spice and smoky flavor, this dish is a great choice. The dipping sauce adds a fiery kick, making it a treat for spice lovers.

9. Larb: A Thai Salad with Ground Meat

Larb is a vibrant and flavorful Thai salad made with ground chicken, pork, or beef, mixed with fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and lime. It’s usually spiced up with chili and fish sauce and served with lettuce or cabbage leaves.

Why Try It?

Larb is perfect for those who love fresh, light salads but want something with a spicy punch. It’s a dish that's both refreshing and satisfying.

10. Thai Iced Tea: The Sweet Refreshment

After enjoying the flavorful dishes, you’ll want something cool and refreshing to balance out the heat. Thai iced tea is a popular beverage made from strong brewed tea, sweetened condensed milk, and served over ice. It's creamy, sweet, and incredibly refreshing.

Why Try It?

If you have a sweet tooth and need something to cool you down after a spicy meal, Thai iced tea is the perfect drink.

Conclusion: Expand Your Thai Culinary Horizons

When you’re in Toronto and searching for Thai food near me, there’s no need to limit yourself to just Pad Thai. From the fiery Tom Yum soup to the comforting Massaman curry, Thai cuisine offers a rich variety of dishes to suit any palate. Whether you’re looking for something spicy, creamy, or refreshing, there's an abundance of options to explore.

So, next time you're at a Thai restaurant, take a break from your usual order and try something new. You might just discover your new favorite dish!

FAQs

1. What is the spiciest Thai dish I can order?
If you're looking for something spicy, try the Green Curry or Thai Basil Chicken. Both of these dishes pack quite a punch with their chili-infused flavors.

2. Can I find vegetarian options at a Thai restaurant in Toronto?
Yes! Thai cuisine offers plenty of vegetarian options, including dishes like Green Curry with tofu, Som Tum, and Thai Iced Tea.

3. What is the difference between Thai red curry and green curry?
Green curry tends to be spicier and has a more herbal flavor, while red curry is milder and has a slightly smoky flavor due to the red chilies.

4. Is Thai food healthy?
Thai food can be very healthy, especially dishes like Som Tum, Larb, and Thai salads. They often feature fresh herbs and lean meats, though some curries can be high in fat due to coconut milk.

5. Can I get Pad Thai at every Thai restaurant in Toronto?
Yes, Pad Thai is a staple dish at most Thai restaurants in Toronto, but don't forget to explore other flavorful dishes to get the full experience!