Discover the Best Thai Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is home to more than 175 foreign embassies, so it makes sense that the city’s food scene is incredibly diverse too. Thai cuisine is particularly well represented. While many restaurants offer delightful Thai food, here are eight stellar options for authentic flavors that hail straight from Bangkok. This list features classic dishes including curries, drunken noodles, and pad Thai, alongside unique items that bring an extra kick, such as bubble waffles.

Thai Chef Street Food

This colorful restaurant near Dupont Circle immerses you in the vibrant street food culture of Bangkok. Make sure to save room for dessert as bubble waffles are a must-try item here. Choose from delicious Thai tea or chocolate chip bubble waffles topped with ice cream flavors like lychee or sesame, embellished with strawberry Pocky and chocolate cornflakes. Don’t overlook savory treats such as Thai-style homemade chicken nuggets and deeply marinated beef strips served jerky-style with zesty sriracha sauce.

Little Serow

A line often forms outside this renowned, no-reservations restaurant near Dupont Circle, which focuses on northern and northeastern Thai cuisine. Diners who are willing to wait are rewarded with a set menu served family-style featuring bold dishes. Expect tantalizing fish dumplings paired with burnt coconut and lime leaf, along with tender Si Krong Muu pork ribs. Be prepared for some heat, as meals generally include pork, seafood, and nuts with no substitutions. Moreover, the menu changes weekly, meaning each visit to Little Serow is a unique culinary experience.

Beau Thai

Washingtonians are enamored with the stylish Beau Thai, a neighborhood gem with locations in both Shaw and Mount Pleasant, characterized by sleek decor and oversized photographs. The menu shines with vibrant choices, including a fresh salad made with green papaya, grilled shrimp, tomatoes, string beans, Thai chilies, and crushed peanuts topped with lime dressing—alongside beloved drunken noodles. At the Mount Pleasant spot, guests can warm up with comforting noodle bowls adorned with roast pork, duck, chicken, beef, or vegetables.

Thai X-ing

For a distinctive dining experience, make arrangements well in advance to visit Thai X-ing in Shaw. You will feel as if you are enjoying a meal in chef/owner Taw Vigsittaboot’s kitchen while indulging in a regularly changing pre-fixe menu. Signature offerings include pumpkin curry and mango sticky rice for dessert. Some evenings are tailored for vegetarian and vegan diners, so be sure to check the night’s menu beforehand. The total cost may fluctuate based on the day’s selections and the number of guests at your table.

BKK Cookshop

The owners of Beau Thai expanded their culinary venture with BKK Cookshop, a lively noodle house in Shaw. This inviting venue features a delightful patio and serves street food-inspired appetizers such as pumpkin empanadas, Thai sausage, and steamed buns. For main courses, try the Bangkok spicy noodles featuring ground pork or a family-recipe derived pad Thai. These authentic favorites guarantee a classic Thai dining experience.

Soi 38

Soi 38 is a go-to spot for office workers in downtown D.C. The restaurant features a beautifully adorned dining room with gilded artwork and specializes in dishes inspired by Bangkok street food. Notable menu items include Khao Soi with chicken legs, egg noodles, khao soi curry, and pickled mustard greens. Also popular are Kana Moo Krob, which incorporates flash-fried pork belly, Chinese broccoli, garlic, and oyster sauce. The extensive menu ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Baan Thai

For those seeking a departure from typical Thai fare, Baan Thai offers an exceptional array of authentic dishes known for their spiciness. Highlights include the glass noodle soup enriched with chicken and shrimp, or the homemade fishball green curry featuring eggplant, Thai thin rice noodles, basil, and chili. Additionally, the kanom krok, or coconut milk pancake desserts, are a fan favorite that shouldn’t be missed.

Bangkok Joe’s

Conclude your day of sightseeing in D.C. with a meal at Bangkok Joe’s, located on the scenic Georgetown waterfront overlooking the Potomac River. This inviting eatery, adorned with red accents, is celebrated for its enticing lunch specials. Bangkok Joe’s serves Thai cuisine with a creative twist, drawing influences from American, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, and French culinary traditions. Additionally, the restaurant features a dedicated Dumpling Bar, perfect for those craving delightful, handmade dumplings.