Looking to indulge your taste buds in the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine? Look no further than Columbia, SC's burgeoning food scene, which boasts a plethora of top-notch Thai restaurants. From the deliciously authentic dishes at Lotus Thai Dining to the delightful fusion creations at Fusion Thai & Japanese, this article will guide you through the must-try spots in the city.
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey as we explore the 7 Best Thai Restaurants in Columbia, SC. Prepare to be amazed by the harmonious blend of flavors, aromatic spices, and the warm hospitality that awaits you at these fabulous establishments.
Jump to places
- Baan Sawan Thai Bistro
- Duke's Pad Thai
- Mai Thai Cuisine
- Basil Thai Cuisine
- Golden Chopstix
- Lotus Thai Dining
- Thailand Restaurant
Baan Sawan Thai Bistro is a bar that offers an upscale dining experience in a small house. Visitors say that the food is of great quality and quantity, with a tasty selection of traditional Thai dishes. Although the parking space is limited, guests appreciate the cozy ambiance and friendly staff.
One reviewer describes their experience as fantastic, highlighting the perfectly balanced spicy flavors and the modest yet amazing menu. Another reviewer recommends this place as possibly the best Thai food in the entire city or even the state. Despite the small size, appetizers are served promptly, although cooked-to-order main dishes may take a while.
Prices range from $20 to $25, making it a reasonable option.

Duke's Pad Thai is a standout Thai restaurant worth visiting for its fresh and flavorful dishes. People say that the steamed pork dumplings here are among the best they've ever had, and the portions are generous. Guests have also praised the cleanliness and pleasant aroma of the restroom, a detail that is often overlooked in reviews.
While the food at Duke's Pad Thai is not as spicy as traditional dishes in Thailand, visitors appreciate the surprisingly authentic flavors, especially for South Carolina. The curries, fried rice dishes, and steamed dumplings are all delicious, but it's the noodles that truly shine at this informal spot.
The pad Thai is a must-try, but guests are also highly satisfied with the pad see eew and other noodle options. Those seeking a spicy kick can opt for the Spicy Beef & Shrimp dish, which has received rave reviews. With its delicious, fresh flavors and great textures, Duke's Pad Thai delivers a memorable dining experience.
The only downside is that parking can be limited, so plan accordingly.

Mai Thai Cuisine is a small gem that offers consistently great Thai dishes, making it a worthy visit for any food enthusiast. People have been coming to this restaurant for years, drawn in by its fresh and flavorful menu. The presentation of their dishes is also a standout quality, with guests marveling at the beautiful and appetizing arrangements.
The staff is attentive and friendly, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for everyone. With a range of dishes to choose from, Mai Thai Cuisine caters to all taste preferences. Additionally, this restaurant offers boba tea, a perfect treat to enjoy alongside your meal.
Visitors have praised not only the food but also the ambiance, noting that the dining room and bathrooms are impeccably clean. Overall, Mai Thai Cuisine provides outstanding food, great service, and a delightful dining atmosphere.

Located in the heart of Columbia, Basil Thai Cuisine is a must-visit place for Thai food enthusiasts. Visitors rave about the traditional and contemporary Thai dishes offered in this stylish small-chain outpost. People say that the food at Basil Thai is always good and cooked to perfection.
Guests appreciate the restaurant's dedication to customer satisfaction, as demonstrated by their swift response when a hair was found in a dish – not only did they remake the meal free of charge, but they also surprised the children with a complimentary dessert.
In addition to their excellent service, visitors are also pleased with the ambiance of Basil Thai. Its clean and beautiful interior, coupled with the warm and friendly staff, create a welcoming dining experience. With consistent quality and flavors that appeal to the taste buds, it's no wonder that guests keep coming back for more.
Whether it's a special occasion or an impromptu dinner, Basil Thai Cuisine is the ideal place to indulge in delectable Thai dishes.

Golden Chopstix is worth visiting for its compact operation serving sushi along with Thai and Vietnamese options to eat in or take out. Visitors have praised this little gem, with one guest even mentioning that they moved all the way from Little Saigon in California and stumbled upon this restaurant.
The reviewer and their partner were both impressed and deemed it worth the drive from town, vowing to return. Another guest highlighted the exceptional service provided by one of the staff members, who not only accommodated their gluten allergy but also ensured that their food was delicious.
Furthermore, guests have raved about the wonderful atmosphere, clean and beautifully decorated surroundings, as well as the clean restrooms. Additionally, the food has been described as marvelously tasty, with steaming hot and filling portions. Overall, Golden Chopstix has been recognized as a place where visitors can experience true Vietnamese cuisine and enjoy a delightful dining experience without any complaints.

Lotus Thai Dining, situated inconspicuously in a strip mall, offers a delightful surprise to anyone who stumbles upon it. Visitors may initially overlook it, but as people say, "please don't judge a book by its cover!" In fact, this hidden gem is known for having the best sushi in town.
One satisfied guest even introduced their three-year-old daughter to sushi here, and it has since become her "favorite food." However, Lotus Thai Dining is not just about sushi. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu with a wide range of Asian dishes, as mentioned by another impressed diner who greatly enjoyed their takeout.
Additionally, the crab and cheese spring rolls come highly recommended by a kind elderly lady and the chicken pad thai is an irresistible choice for those looking to satisfy their cravings after a workout. With its mouthwatering offerings and inviting atmosphere, Lotus Thai Dining is definitely worth a visit.

Located on a quiet street in the heart of downtown, Thailand Restaurant offers an unassuming locale with traditional decor and a menu that is sure to impress any lover of Thai cuisine. Visitors rave about the authentic flavors that transport them directly to Bangkok.
One guest, who had previously lived in Asia, confidently claims that this is the best Thai food in the area. The healthy portion sizes and loaded flavors make for a satisfying experience, especially when enjoyed over a shared pot of fragrant jasmine tea.
Many reviewers commend the excellent service, with one guest mentioning the kind lady who even brought them extra plates without being asked. The food is presented and prepared well, with popular dishes like Pad ke mow, Green Curry, fresh spring rolls, Rama Duck, Fried Calamari, and House Fried Rice receiving high praise.
With its delicious offerings and warm atmosphere, Thailand Restaurant is truly a gem that deserves a visit.
