Ask a group of Edinburgh locals what their favourite Thai restaurant in Edinburgh is and Nok’s Kitchen will be repeatedly recommended.
This family-owned Thai eatery has two locations, one restaurant in the trendy Stockbridge neighbourhood of Edinburgh and the second sits in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle on Johnston Terrace.
If you like to take photos of your food, Nok’s Kitchen’s presentation will blow you away.
Pad Thai is served in a basket, the Pad Ka Prow is stuffed into a pepper and the satay sticks come pierced into a slice of pineapple.
The food is quick, clean and creative.
The menu has all of your Thai favourites such as pad Thai, massaman curry and the signature dish is the Nok Nutty Curry.
The drinks menu includes teas, soft drinks, Asian beers and wine.
Nok’s Kitchen also has the option for online ordering on their website.
Local tip: Parking in Edinburgh is a nightmare but if you reserve a table for after 18:30 you can enjoy free parking on Johnston Terrace.
Location & Nearby
Nok’s Kitchen has two Edinburgh homes: one in trendy Stockbridge and the flagship on Johnston Terrace, tucked directly beneath the walls of Edinburgh Castle. The Old Town site is a short walk from the Grassmarket and the Royal Mile, making it an easy add-on to a day of sightseeing. Its position under the castle gives the dining room a genuinely dramatic backdrop.
What to Order
Presentation is the calling card here. Pad Thai is served in a basket, the Pad Ka Prow is stuffed into a pepper and satay sticks are pierced into a slice of pineapple. Beyond the theatre, you get all the Thai favourites – pad Thai, massaman curry and the family’s signature Nok Nutty Curry. The drinks list runs from teas and soft drinks to Asian beers and wine.
Who It Suits
Ideal for food photographers, date nights and anyone who wants their Thai to look as good as it tastes. It is a step up in polish (and price) from casual spots like Ting Thai Caravan. Families are welcome and the creative plating goes down well with kids.
Practical Tips
- Family-owned with sites on Johnston Terrace and in Stockbridge
- Reserve a table after 18:30 for free parking on Johnston Terrace
- Online ordering available via the restaurant website
- Book ahead for the castle-side Old Town branch, especially weekends
- Signature dish: the Nok Nutty Curry
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Nok’s Kitchen in Edinburgh?
Nok’s Kitchen has two locations – one on Johnston Terrace directly beneath Edinburgh Castle, and a second in the Stockbridge neighbourhood. The Old Town branch is the one with castle views.
Can you get free parking at Nok’s Kitchen?
Yes – if you reserve a table for after 18:30 you can park for free on Johnston Terrace, which is otherwise tricky for parking in the Old Town.
What is Nok’s Kitchen known for?
Its creative presentation – pad Thai in a basket, Pad Ka Prow in a pepper, satay on pineapple – plus the signature Nok Nutty Curry. It is a regular local recommendation.
