Edinburgh punches well above its weight for Thai food, from cult street-food canteens packed with students to castle-view fine dining and neighbourhood takeaways loved by locals. This guide rounds up seven of the best Thai restaurants in Edinburgh, grouped by area, so you can find the right spot whether you want a cheap pad Thai on the run or a special-occasion meal with a view.
Below you will find every restaurant as a card with prices, area and what it is best for, followed by a quick comparison table and answers to the questions we get asked most. Tap any card to read the full review, menu highlights and practical visitor tips.
Ting Thai Caravan
Old TownEdinburgh’s cult casual Thai on Teviot Place – authentic street food, big flavours and student-friendly prices. No reservations, always busy.
Nok’s Kitchen
Old TownFamily-owned Thai beneath Edinburgh Castle, famous for creative plating – pad Thai in a basket, satay on pineapple. Also in Stockbridge.
Krua Khun Mae
Old TownA speakeasy-feel Thai tucked down Craig’s Close off Cockburn Street. Low lighting, hearty portions and a great date-night vibe.
Chaophraya
City CentreUpscale Thai on the 4th floor of Castle Street with terrace castle views. The go-to for anniversaries, birthdays and impressing guests.
Passorn
SouthsideBib Gourmand-recognised Thai on Brougham Place (2014-2018). Flexible kitchen, standout purple dumplings – a Southside favourite since 2009.
Soi 38
SouthsideQuick, fresh Thai street food on Clerk Street with most mains under £10. Mostly takeaway with a few tables, next to The Dog House pub.
Street Box
StockbridgePopular Stockbridge Thai takeaway on Raeburn Place. Tight, well-executed menu from head chef Jo – grab a box for Inverleith Park.
Thai Restaurants in Edinburgh Compared
| Restaurant | Area | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ting Thai Caravan | Old Town | ££ | Casual street food |
| Nok’s Kitchen | Old Town | £££ | Presentation-led |
| Krua Khun Mae | Old Town | ££ | Hidden gem |
| Chaophraya | City Centre | £££ | Special occasions |
| Passorn | Southside | £££ | Award-winning |
| Soi 38 | Southside | ££ | Takeaway + dine-in |
| Street Box | Stockbridge | ££ | Street food takeaway |
How to Choose the Right Thai Restaurant
For a cheap, buzzy feed near the university, Ting Thai Caravan and Soi 38 are hard to beat, with most dishes keenly priced. If you are marking a special occasion or want a view, book the terrace at Chaophraya for castle vistas, or go for the award-recognised cooking at Passorn. For takeaway, Street Box in Stockbridge and Soi 38 on the Southside both do fast, fresh Thai to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Thai restaurant in Edinburgh?
It depends on what you want. Ting Thai Caravan is the cult casual pick, Chaophraya wins for castle-view special occasions, and Passorn holds a Bib Gourmand for consistently good cooking. Nok’s Kitchen is the most photogenic.
Which Edinburgh Thai restaurants are cheapest?
Ting Thai Caravan and Soi 38 are the best value, with most street-food mains coming in around or under £10. Both suit student budgets and casual meals.
Where can I get Thai food with a view of Edinburgh Castle?
Chaophraya on Castle Street has a terrace with castle views, and Nok’s Kitchen on Johnston Terrace sits directly beneath the castle. Request a terrace or window table when booking.
Are there good Thai takeaways in Edinburgh?
Yes – Street Box in Stockbridge and Soi 38 on Clerk Street are primarily takeaways, and Nok’s Kitchen offers online ordering. Several also offer delivery.