Introduction
When a craving for the vibrant tapestry of flavors that only Thai cuisine can offer hits, Englewood presents a delightful array of options ready to transport your taste buds. Perhaps you are searching for the tang of tamarind, the subtle heat of chili, or the refreshing burst of lemongrass, Englewood’s Thai food scene holds hidden gems and established favorites, ready to satisfy. Thai food’s universal appeal stems from its masterful balance of sweet, sour, spicy, salty, and umami notes, all harmonized through fresh, high-quality ingredients, aromatic herbs, and carefully selected spices. But navigating the choices can be overwhelming. That’s why this guide aims to lead you through the best Thai restaurants in Englewood, illuminating their unique features and offerings, allowing you to embark on your own Englewood Thai food adventure. Get ready to discover the best of Englewood Thai food!
Spice Route Cuisine: A Taste of Tradition
Nestled on South Broadway, Spice Route Cuisine offers a haven of traditional Thai flavors. Stepping inside, you are immediately greeted by a warm, inviting ambiance. The decor is a comforting mix of traditional Thai art and modern accents, creating a space that is both elegant and relaxed. Soft lighting and comfortable seating contribute to a dining experience that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.
Spice Route Cuisine prides itself on using authentic family recipes passed down through generations. One of their signature dishes is the Gaeng Keow Wan Gai, their creamy and fragrant green curry with chicken. This dish is a symphony of flavors, combining tender chicken with bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and Thai basil in a rich coconut milk broth. The subtle heat of the green chilies is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the coconut milk, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Another must-try is their Pad See Ew, a classic Thai noodle dish. At Spice Route Cuisine, the Pad See Ew features wide rice noodles stir-fried with Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein. The noodles are perfectly cooked, with a slight chewiness that is incredibly satisfying. The sauce is a delicate blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a hint of sweetness, creating a flavor that is both savory and addictive. For those seeking a vegetarian option, the restaurant boasts a delicious tofu version.
And let’s not forget their renowned Tom Yum Soup. This hot and sour soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, and Spice Route Cuisine’s version is a testament to its authenticity. The broth is infused with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies, creating a complex and aromatic flavor that is both refreshing and invigorating. The soup is loaded with mushrooms, tomatoes, and your choice of protein, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal.
The price range at Spice Route Cuisine is moderate, making it an accessible option for those seeking quality Thai food in Englewood without breaking the bank. What truly sets Spice Route Cuisine apart is their dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and their commitment to preserving the authentic flavors of Thai cuisine. As one reviewer raved, “Spice Route Cuisine is a true gem. The food is incredible, the service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is perfect. I can’t recommend it enough!” This restaurant offers a delicious introduction to Englewood Thai food.
The Golden Elephant: A Fusion of Flavors
Located off Hampden Avenue, The Golden Elephant takes a modern approach to Thai cuisine, offering innovative dishes that blend traditional flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. The ambiance is lively and vibrant, with colorful murals and upbeat music creating an energetic atmosphere. The restaurant’s interior is modern and stylish, with a sleek bar area and comfortable seating arrangements.
The Golden Elephant is known for its creative fusion dishes that push the boundaries of Thai cuisine. Their signature dish, the Mango Sticky Rice Spring Rolls, is a prime example of their innovative approach. These crispy spring rolls are filled with sweet sticky rice and fresh mango, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The rolls are served with a coconut dipping sauce that adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
Another popular dish is their Massaman Curry Lamb Shank. This rich and flavorful curry features a tender lamb shank braised in a creamy Massaman curry sauce. The curry is infused with potatoes, peanuts, and onions, creating a complex and aromatic flavor that is both comforting and exotic. The lamb shank is cooked to perfection, falling off the bone with the slightest touch.
For those seeking a more traditional Thai experience, The Golden Elephant also offers a variety of classic dishes, such as Pad Kra Pao (Thai Basil Stir Fry). Their version of this dish features ground chicken stir-fried with Thai basil, chilies, garlic, and soy sauce. The dish is served over rice and topped with a fried egg, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. The spice level can be adjusted to your preference, from mild to extra hot.
The Golden Elephant caters to dietary restrictions with a wide range of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Their tofu dishes are particularly popular, and they are always willing to accommodate special requests. The price range at The Golden Elephant is slightly higher than Spice Route Cuisine, reflecting the restaurant’s upscale ambiance and innovative dishes.
The Golden Elephant stands out for its creative fusion dishes, exceptional service, and vibrant atmosphere. As the owner proudly states, “We strive to offer our customers a unique and memorable dining experience. We combine traditional Thai flavors with modern culinary techniques to create dishes that are both familiar and surprising.” Many consider this spot the most innovative of Englewood Thai food destinations.
Siam Orchid: A Family-Friendly Favorite
Nestled on Union Avenue, Siam Orchid is a long-standing Englewood institution known for its authentic Thai cuisine and family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant has been serving the community for over twenty years and has built a loyal following of regulars. The decor is simple and unpretentious, with comfortable booths and tables that are perfect for families.
Siam Orchid focuses on providing traditional Thai dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their signature dish, the Pad Thai, is a classic example of their commitment to authenticity. The noodles are perfectly cooked, with a slight chewiness that is incredibly satisfying. The sauce is a delicate blend of tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar, creating a flavor that is both sweet and savory. The Pad Thai is topped with shrimp, chicken, tofu, or vegetables, depending on your preference.
Another popular dish is their Red Curry. This rich and flavorful curry features red curry paste, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and your choice of protein. The curry is simmered to perfection, creating a smooth and creamy sauce that is bursting with flavor. The spice level can be adjusted to your preference, from mild to extra hot.
Siam Orchid also offers a variety of appetizers, such as their Spring Rolls and Satay. Their Spring Rolls are crispy and filled with vegetables and glass noodles. The Satay features grilled chicken skewers marinated in a peanut sauce. These appetizers are perfect for sharing and are a great way to start your meal.
The price range at Siam Orchid is very reasonable, making it an accessible option for families and budget-conscious diners. What sets Siam Orchid apart is its commitment to providing authentic Thai cuisine at an affordable price. As one long-time customer shared, “Siam Orchid is our go-to Thai restaurant. The food is always delicious, the service is friendly, and the prices are unbeatable. We’ve been coming here for years and have never been disappointed.” Siam Orchid, for its accessibility and consistency, truly offers some of the best Englewood Thai food.
Beyond the Usual Suspects: Other Englewood Thai Options
While Spice Route Cuisine, The Golden Elephant, and Siam Orchid are undoubtedly the most popular Thai restaurants in Englewood, there are a few other options worth mentioning. Thai Express, located on Federal Boulevard, is a takeout-only establishment that offers quick and affordable Thai dishes. They are known for their flavorful curries and noodle dishes, making it a convenient option for those on the go.
Additionally, keep an eye out for local food trucks! Occasionally, Thai food trucks will frequent the Englewood area, offering unique and delicious street food options. Websites and social media are your best bet to find these moving culinary treasures.
Tips for Ordering Thai Food
Navigating a Thai menu can be a bit daunting, especially if you are unfamiliar with the cuisine. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your Englewood Thai food experience.
Spice Levels
Most Thai restaurants offer varying spice levels, typically ranging from mild to medium to hot. Be cautious when ordering, especially if you are not used to spicy food. It’s always better to start with a lower spice level and add more chili if desired. Don’t hesitate to ask your server for recommendations.
Dietary Restrictions
Thai cuisine can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Be sure to inform your server of any allergies or dietary restrictions when ordering. Most restaurants are happy to modify dishes to meet your needs.
Ordering for a Group
When dining with a group, consider ordering a variety of dishes to share. This allows you to sample a wider range of flavors and textures. Be sure to include a mix of appetizers, entrees, and sides.
Common Thai Dishes Explained
Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts in a tamarind sauce.
Green Curry: A creamy and fragrant curry made with green curry paste, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and Thai basil.
Tom Yum Soup: A hot and sour soup infused with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies.
Massaman Curry: A rich and flavorful curry made with Massaman curry paste, coconut milk, potatoes, peanuts, and onions.
Pad Kra Pao: Thai Basil Stir Fry with choice of meat, chilies, and garlic.
Conclusion
Englewood’s Thai food scene is a hidden gem, offering a diverse range of options to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re seeking traditional Thai flavors, innovative fusion dishes, or a family-friendly atmosphere, Englewood has something to offer. Spice Route Cuisine provides an authentic taste of Thailand, The Golden Elephant pushes the boundaries of Thai cuisine with its creative fusion dishes, and Siam Orchid offers a family-friendly experience with consistently delicious classics.
So, the next time you’re craving the vibrant flavors of Thailand, explore Englewood’s diverse Englewood Thai food scene and discover your own favorite spot! Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the usual and try a new dish, or explore a different restaurant. You may just find your next culinary obsession in Englewood. This city’s Thai food offerings are a testament to its diverse and vibrant culinary landscape. Bon appétit, or as they say in Thailand, ทานให้อร่อยนะ (Taan hai aroi na) – enjoy your meal! Englewood Thai food is waiting to be discovered!
