Melbourne’s love affair with Thai food runs deep. From fiery southern curries and sizzling street food to elevated modern dining and late-night noodle bars, the city is home to some of Australia’s best Thai restaurants. Whether you’re chasing authentic Bangkok flavours, rooftop cocktails with Thai-inspired feasts, family-run hidden gems or iconic institutions that helped shape Melbourne’s dining scene, there’s no shortage of exceptional options across the city.
This guide to the best Thai restaurants in Melbourne celebrates venues delivering bold flavours, vibrant hospitality and unforgettable dining experiences. From CBD hotspots such as Soi 38, Chin Chin and Longrain to beloved suburban favourites like Jinda Thai and Little Bangkok Doncaster, these restaurants showcase the incredible diversity of Thai cuisine. Expect fragrant herbs, punchy spice, silky curries, wok-fired noodles and some of Melbourne’s most exciting social dining experiences. Whether it’s a casual midweek dinner, date night, group celebration or late-night feast, these standout venues continue to raise the bar for Thai dining in Melbourne.
Soi 38 - CBD
Soi 38 remains one of Melbourne’s great Thai success stories, with humble beginnings in a car park, to now modern larger venue seating around 300. Inspired by the bustling street food culture of Bangkok, this hotspot delivers bold flavours, energetic vibes and some of the city’s most authentic Thai dishes. The menu leans unapologetically traditional, with favourites such as boat noodles rich with spice and depth, fiery papaya salad, silky pork jowl and comforting bowls of tom yum noodles drawing loyal crowds night after night. The atmosphere feels transportive, from the neon glow to the tightly packed tables and constant buzz of conversation. It’s chaotic in the best possible way, echoing the spirit of Bangkok’s famous street markets. While many venues soften flavours for local palates, Soi 38 stays committed to punchy heat, fragrant herbs and layered complexity. Service is fast-paced and friendly, matching the energy of the kitchen. Whether you’re chasing a post-work feast, a late-night supper or one of Melbourne’s most authentic Thai dining experiences, Soi 38 continues to deliver the goods. It’s vibrant, affordable, flavour-packed and still one of the benchmark Thai restaurants in Melbourne.
Kan Eang - CBD
Kan Eang brings authentic southern Thai flavours and heartfelt family hospitality to the heart of Melbourne CBD. This family-run restaurant has quickly built a loyal following thanks to its deeply traditional cooking, vibrant atmosphere and uncompromising approach to flavour. The menu showcases dishes inspired by Thailand’s southern regions, where spice, herbs and seafood play a major role in the cuisine. Expect rich curries, fiery stir fries, fragrant soups and beautifully balanced dishes layered with chilli, lemongrass and fresh herbs.
We have enjoyed several top notch dinners at Kan Eang and we are addicted to their Basil Minced Beef and Grilled Bone Marrow with Brioche Toast. Not to mention their legendary 3-way signature Fried Chicken Spare Ribs ( a famous family recipe). Curries are also a high point notably the Southern Tumeric Curry with King Prawns.
Signature offerings consistently impress with bold seasoning and authentic depth rarely found outside Thailand itself. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, balancing modern Melbourne dining with genuine Thai hospitality. Service is attentive and passionate, adding a personal touch that enhances the overall experience. Kan Eang stands out because it never feels overly commercial or watered down for local tastes. Instead, the restaurant confidently celebrates authentic regional Thai cooking while still remaining approachable and inviting. Whether you’re exploring Thai cuisine for the first time or chasing flavours reminiscent of Bangkok and Phuket, Kan Eang delivers one of Melbourne’s most satisfying and genuinely authentic Thai dining experiences in the CBD.
Lexy Melbourne - CBD
Lexy delivers a glamorous take on modern Thai dining, combining elevated interiors, vibrant cocktails and bold flavours in the heart of South Yarra. The venue immediately impresses with its luxurious fit-out, moody lighting and stylish energy, creating an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and playful. The menu takes inspiration from classic Thai cuisine while embracing a contemporary Melbourne edge, resulting in dishes that are vibrant, refined and packed with flavour.
Signature offerings include beautifully balanced curries, grilled meats, fresh seafood dishes and colourful share plates designed for social dining. Cocktails are another standout, crafted with tropical influences and premium spirits that perfectly complement the spice and freshness of the food. Lexy excels at delivering the full dining experience, where atmosphere, music, drinks and food work together seamlessly. Service is polished yet approachable, helping create a venue that feels equally suited to celebrations, long lunches or stylish dinners with friends. While many modern Thai venues lean heavily into aesthetics, Lexy backs up the glamour with genuinely impressive cooking and attention to detail. It’s a venue that captures Melbourne’s love for high-energy dining while still respecting the bold, aromatic flavours that define great Thai cuisine.
Jinda Thai - Abbotsford
Jinda Thai has long been regarded as one of Melbourne’s premier destinations for authentic Thai cuisine. Tucked away in Abbotsford, this much-loved restaurant has built its reputation on uncompromising flavours, family recipes and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. The menu dives deep into regional Thai cooking, delivering dishes packed with fragrant herbs, chilli heat and complex layers of flavour. Signature favourites include the crispy pork belly, spicy soups, rich curries and deeply aromatic stir fries that continue to attract devoted diners from across Melbourne. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, allowing the food to remain front and centre. Jinda Thai’s consistency over the years has been remarkable, maintaining exceptional standards while many restaurants evolve or soften their flavours. Diners seeking genuinely traditional Thai cuisine often point here first, and for good reason. The kitchen isn’t afraid of spice or bold seasoning, resulting in dishes that feel vibrant and deeply satisfying. Friendly service and generous portions further enhance the experience. Jinda Thai represents the kind of restaurant that earns loyalty through substance rather than hype, proving that authentic flavours and passionate cooking never go out of style in Melbourne’s competitive dining scene.
We dined at Jinda Thai with good friends from Adelaide, who have a penchant for Thai cuisine. We wanted to take our friends to a "now" Melbourne restaurant (no offence to older institutions) and Jinda Thai are in fine form. . Jinda Thai doesn't "dumb it down" for Western tastes. This is about fresh, tasty, authentic, well presented food.
Jinda Thai has a casual but hip modern ambience. Green Curry Chicken was creamy, spicy and a delightful amount of spice. The heat in this dish creeps up on you... We find many Thai restaurants in Melbourne cook great pork neck dishes, and the Thai style marinated pork neck at Jinda Thai from the grill was top notch. The Thai special fried rice with chicken was a meal in itself...
Chin Chin - Flinders Lane CBD
Few restaurants have shaped Melbourne’s dining scene quite like Chin Chin. Since opening, this Flinders Lane institution has consistently drawn crowds with its high-energy atmosphere, bold Southeast Asian flavours and vibrant approach to social dining. The venue hums with constant energy, from the open kitchen theatrics to the soundtrack and bustling communal tables. While inspired by Thai cuisine, the menu confidently blends flavours and influences from across Southeast Asia, delivering dishes that are punchy, colourful and built for sharing. Standouts include kingfish sashimi, caramelised sticky pork, massaman curry and the legendary corn fritters that remain crowd favourites. Cocktails are equally iconic, balancing tropical flavours and playful presentation with serious quality. Chin Chin’s success lies in its ability to combine accessibility with genuinely exciting food, making it just as popular with tourists as longtime Melbourne locals. Service remains fast, polished and energetic despite the restaurant’s relentless pace. More than a decade on, Chin Chin still feels relevant, vibrant and consistently enjoyable. It continues to define Melbourne’s modern casual dining culture while delivering flavours that keep diners coming back. For many, no list of Melbourne’s best Thai-inspired restaurants is complete without this enduring CBD powerhouse.
Chin Chin has a striking ambience with pop artwork, Asian images, the neon rabbit, and cool typeface of its logo. The lighting is slightly dim, the crowd energises at atmosphere of its own, there's activity and sometimes there's a sense of rush. In fact these are elements of Asia itself and you feel like you actually might be somewhere in Bangkok or Singapore or some other Asian city.
Another area where Chin Chin shines is that Asian fusion is done outstandingly. Every dish has punch. The spice and heat factor are not dumbed down. Spice Temple is another restaurant that comes to mind where the spice is authentic and not watered down. Melbourne diners are discerning and want the authentic. Credit to rock star chef Benjamin Cooper whose profile is growing nationally and internationally.
Chin Chin excells when it comes to fresh ingredients. The World Loves Melbourne rates the Caramelised Sticky Pork with Sour Herb Salad & Chilli Vinegarette as one of the best pork dishes in Melbourne. The fresh zingy Asian salad ingredients with this dish complement perfectly and cut through the richness of the pork. The sauce in the bowl was also a highlight which I absorbed with a side of rice.
The ability to secure a table with a no bookings policy is a challenge, but the strategy has proved highly successful. Washed down with Tempranillo, this was a rewarding lunch.
BKK - CBD
BKK brings the electric chaos of Bangkok nightlife straight into the heart of Melbourne CBD. From the moment you step inside, the venue pulses with colour, music and atmosphere, delivering one of the city’s most exciting Thai dining experiences. Neon lighting, high-energy service and a playful fit-out create the perfect backdrop for a menu packed with bold modern Thai flavours. Signature dishes such as the crab fried rice, wagyu skewers, punchy curries and vibrant seafood creations showcase a kitchen that balances authenticity with creativity. Cocktails are a major feature here, with tropical flavours and theatrical presentation complementing the lively energy of the restaurant. While BKK is undeniably trendy, the food remains the hero, delivering serious flavour and quality produce throughout the menu. It’s the kind of venue equally suited to group celebrations, date nights or late-night cocktails with friends. Every visit feels dynamic and entertaining, with a party atmosphere that rarely slows down. BKK has quickly cemented itself as one of Melbourne’s hottest Thai dining destinations by combining big personality, exceptional hospitality and flavour-driven cooking. If you’re looking for modern Thai dining with atmosphere turned all the way up, BKK absolutely delivers.
Longrain MELBOURNE - CBD
Longrain remains one of Melbourne’s most influential modern Thai restaurants, blending sophisticated dining with bold Southeast Asian flavours in an elegant CBD setting. Since opening, the restaurant has helped shape Melbourne’s appreciation for elevated Thai cuisine, proving that refinement and intensity of flavour can exist side by side. The stunning dining room, with its dramatic communal tables and moody lighting, creates a warm yet stylish atmosphere ideal for long lunches and memorable dinners. The menu celebrates balance, freshness and spice, featuring standout dishes such as whole fried fish, aromatic curries, caramelised pork hock and vibrant salads layered with herbs and citrus. Every plate demonstrates precision and restraint while still delivering the punchy flavours Thai cuisine is known for. Cocktails and wines are thoughtfully curated, complementing the complexity of the menu beautifully. Longrain’s enduring success lies in its ability to feel timeless rather than trendy. The restaurant continues to attract loyal regulars alongside first-time visitors seeking one of Melbourne’s classic dining experiences. Service is polished, knowledgeable and consistently attentive. More than just a Thai restaurant, Longrain represents a landmark in Melbourne’s culinary evolution and remains an essential destination for lovers of sophisticated Southeast Asian dining.
How can you come to Longrain and not have some of the Eggnet. It was a flavour explosion of Filled eggnet, prawns, peanuts, caramelised coconut, cucumber relish.
The oysters at Longrain were a hit with Freshly shucked oyster, red chilli nahm jim, coriander and lime... Loved the Thai influences. Another hit at Longrain is the Betel leaf, either with smoked trout, mint, peanuts, chilli paste or with pomelo, mint, green papaya, toasted coconut... Betel leaf was once a kind of novelty but is now a common feature at Thai restaurants. Of course Longrain has been doing it so well for so long...
The highlight at Longrain was the Caramelised pork hock, chilli vinegar, crisp garlic. The Caramelised pork hock with chilli vinegar at Longrain is a melt-in-your-mouth delight. The pork is cubed then deep fried until it is crisp and has an irresistable sweetness. This is serious caramelisation that causes the pork to have a lovely stickiness. We ordered a second serving.
BangPop - South Wharf
Set along the Yarra River at South Wharf, BangPop combines vibrant Thai flavours with one of Melbourne’s most relaxed waterfront dining settings. Bright, colourful and energetic, the venue delivers a fun and approachable take on modern Thai cuisine while embracing the social spirit of shared dining. The menu features a broad range of dishes inspired by Bangkok street food culture, including fragrant curries, spicy salads, stir fries, skewers and fresh seafood options packed with herbs and bold seasoning. Signature cocktails and refreshing drinks perfectly suit the riverside location, making BangPop especially popular for long lunches, sunset dining and group celebrations. The atmosphere strikes an appealing balance between casual and lively, with warm hospitality adding to the experience. Families, tourists and locals alike are drawn to the restaurant’s accessible menu and scenic location. Despite its laid-back feel, the kitchen consistently delivers vibrant flavours and quality produce across the menu. BangPop succeeds because it captures the fun, colourful essence of Thai dining while remaining welcoming and approachable for all diners. Whether you’re stopping by for cocktails and snacks or settling in for a feast with friends, BangPop continues to be one of South Wharf’s most reliable dining destinations.
From the spice-driven menu to the frenetic buzz of the colourful dining room, guests are invited to enjoy a truly immersive experience without having to even think about getting on a plane. I was able to lunch at BangPop 3 days in a row and while I intend to return again soon, here is my review...
In Thai language, the word ‘bang’ means a village situated on a stream, while the ‘pop’ element encapsulates the bold flavours, vibrant colours and larger-than-life personality of this Yarra-side restaurant. Thai's love their colours and BangPop displays the brilliance of purples and greens, and reds and yellows. The Duck curry above is one of The World Loves Melbourne's favourite Thai dishes in Melbourne.
What I love is that BangPop doesn't "dumb" down authentic dishes to suit the masses. Actually what the masses may well want (I can't speak for them but speculate) is an authentic experience, and that includes the heat in the dishes. BangPop brings the heat and fire, enough to brighten up a grey Melbourne day, but keeps the flavour (heat doesn't kill it).
The Pad Ka Prow Moo is a wonderful dish with wok fried pork with Thai basil, chilli, garlic, and jasmin rice. I've had variations of this dish in the past where the heat has overpowered. But here the balance is right with spice and heat and flavour all predominant, all with perfect rice accompaniment.
It strikes me that although this is street food there's a sense of finery and celebration around this restaurant space and it's cuisine. The kitchen brings a sense of refinement to the street food offerings, while all the time demonstrating a strong understanding of the importance of flavourful dipping sauces and aromatic condiments.
Rich and creamy! BangPop serve up a sumptuous Green curry. I love the idea of being presented with a bevvy of condiments - allowing me to adjust the balance of the meal. The fact that the waitress explained each condiment to me and its effect, was impressive. I found the balance of all dishes perfect as it was, preferring not to use condiments but to discern where the chef "is coming from" in terms of balance.
BangPop is a great spot to soak up the riverside atmosphere. Highly recommended as one of the best Thai restaurants in Melbourne.
Son in Law - Melbourne Central
Son In Law is a delightful modern Thai restaurant that hits the spot on all fronts. Traditional names are present but this is about modern Thai or "Thai with a twist". Good restaurants are run by good people and Tony is an excellent front of house, eager to please. We remember the previous restaurant Ayatana but this is something different. The World Loves Melbourne (David and Mario) was invited to sample the bright vibrant experience that is Son In Law.
Every dish we consumed was on point. And comment should be made about the beer and wine list; the best we've ever seen in a Thai restaurant (if that's not patronising). Craft beer overdrive and iconic well chosen trendy wines.
Son in Law Eggs are a must order; Instagram art on a plate but more than that delicious textures and flavours for a simple dish. It set the trend for the night; bright modern food with decent and appropriate levels of spice. Sweetness with heat featuring sweet tamarind, chilli, fried shallots.
Crispy Barramundi Fillets are another highlight, with many of the dishes bringing a crispy style. Delectable small fillets of crispy barra with a fair amount of kick. Roasted dry chilli, mint and coriander, red onion and roasted ground rice come together wonderfully for a flavour packed dish. Another high point was the Crispy Soft Shell Crab and Tiger Prawns; a variation on the traditional Thai Green Curry dish. In fact you can order the Thai Green curry straight up, and if a traditionalist, Son In Law is still for you. Yet we enjoyed the modern and adventurous dishes, with the soft shell crab and tiger prawns cooked perfectly and combining as a seafood triumph against spicy green curry. Enjoyed with coconut rice this was a hugely rewarding dish.
By now we were thinking every dish is modern, on point and wonderfully spiced. The food is also affordable; you won't break the bank at Son In Law.
We highly recommend Son In Law as a modern, vibrant, affordable, savvy and cheery Thai restaurant.
Cookie - Swanston St CBD
Cookie has become one of Melbourne’s most iconic dining institutions, seamlessly blending Thai-inspired cuisine, exceptional drinks and an unmistakably Melbourne atmosphere. Hidden above Swanston Street, the sprawling venue combines restaurant, beer hall and cocktail bar energy into one vibrant destination that continues to attract packed crowds year after year. The menu showcases bold Southeast Asian flavours with strong Thai influences, delivering dishes designed for sharing and packed with spice, freshness and texture. Favourites such as curries, stir fries, crispy pork dishes and vibrant salads pair perfectly with one of the city’s most impressive beer and wine selections. Cookie’s atmosphere remains a major drawcard, balancing lively chaos with genuine warmth and character. The eclectic interiors, buzzing soundtrack and constant movement create a uniquely Melbourne dining experience. It’s equally suited to casual after-work drinks, big group celebrations or spontaneous late-night dinners. Service is efficient despite the venue’s relentless popularity, helping maintain its enduring appeal. Cookie has managed to remain relevant across changing dining trends because it consistently delivers flavour, atmosphere and hospitality in equal measure. Decades after opening, it still feels like one of Melbourne’s essential dining experiences and a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant restaurant culture.
Image: Cookie Instagram. Walk up the stairs of the cool Curtin House to a place hidden away from the hustle and bustle of Swanston Street. Enter the dimly lit but uber cool large dining area. Was asked where we would like to sit and saw an opportunity out on the stately balcony. My friend and I, meeting for lunch, felt like royals out there on the balcony overlooking Swanston St. I highly recommend you score a balcony booth on a sunny Melbourne day.
The menu is impressive with a great number of imaginative selections. The food is a modern twist on Thai with clean flavours. Love the pork belly - a chart topper. Thai sausage was also tasty and great! As were the Thai patties/cakes… So are about 70 other dishes from the huge menu. Sensational! Went there with my friend the legendary Rudy who spends half his life in Asia and who gave the thumbs up – the perfect lunch.
Fusion is a good word to describe Cookie. It gives it’s unique interpretation of dishes. Such as the stir fry pork belly with red curry. The option of small, medium or large dishes on the menu is great! You can tailor your eating experience! And an extensive bar menu! The fusion extends to the décor with an almost retro feel to combine with the modern.
Q&A
What are the best Thai restaurants in Melbourne?
Some of the best Thai restaurants in Melbourne include Soi 38, Chin Chin, Longrain, Jinda Thai, BKK, Lexy, BangPop, Cookie, Kan Eang and Son in Law. These venues are known for authentic flavours, vibrant atmospheres and standout Thai-inspired dining experiences.
Which Thai restaurant in Melbourne is most authentic?
Jinda Thai and Kan Eang are often praised for delivering highly authentic Thai flavours, including regional dishes packed with traditional herbs, spices and chilli heat. Soi 38 is also famous for recreating Bangkok-style street food experiences.
What is the most iconic Thai restaurant in Melbourne?
Chin Chin remains one of Melbourne’s most iconic Thai-inspired restaurants thanks to its energetic atmosphere, bold flavours and influence on the city’s dining culture. Longrain is another landmark venue that helped elevate Thai cuisine in Melbourne.
Where can I find Thai street food in Melbourne?
Soi 38 is one of Melbourne’s best destinations for Thai street food-style dining, serving favourites such as boat noodles, papaya salad and late-night comfort dishes inspired by Bangkok.
Which Thai restaurants in Melbourne are good for groups?
BangPop, BKK, Chin Chin, Lexy and Cookie are all excellent choices for group dining thanks to their share-style menus, lively atmospheres and extensive drinks offerings.
Are there good Thai restaurants outside Melbourne CBD?
Yes. Jinda Thai in Abbotsford and Little Bangkok Doncaster are standout suburban favourites known for authentic flavours, welcoming service and consistently excellent Thai cuisine.
Which Melbourne Thai restaurants have great cocktails?
Lexy, Son in Law, BKK and Chin Chin are particularly popular for creative cocktails alongside modern Thai dining experiences and vibrant nightlife energy.
What Thai dishes should I try in Melbourne?
Popular Thai dishes to try include boat noodles, massaman curry, papaya salad, crispy pork belly, pad thai, green curry, tom yum soup and grilled skewers. Many Melbourne Thai restaurants also showcase regional specialties and modern interpretations of classic dishes.