Melbourne is celebrated for its diverse culinary scene, offering a melting pot of flavours from around the world. From Italian trattorias to Indian street food, the city has it all. One cuisine that has gained immense popularity in recent years is Thai.

a plate of food on a wooden table

With its bold flavours, fragrant ingredients, and balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy, Thai food has won over the hearts (and taste buds) of Melburnians. The rise of Thai cuisine in Melbourne has led to the opening of countless Thai restaurants, ranging from high-end establishments to casual eateries. But amidst the wide variety of Thai dishes available, some stand out as crowd favourites.

What Is The Most Popular Thai Dish In Melbourne, Australia?

While Melbourne’s Thai food scene offers a plethora of options, Pad Thai reigns supreme as the most popular dish in the city. Loved for its simplicity, versatility, and explosive flavour profile, Pad Thai can be found in almost every Thai restaurant in Melbourne. Whether you’re dining at a trendy Thai fusion restaurant or grabbing a quick meal from a street vendor-style eatery, Pad Thai is a menu staple.

Pad Thai: A Brief Overview

Originating from Thailand in the 1930s, Pad Thai was popularized as part of a government initiative to promote nationalism. It’s a stir-fried noodle dish made with rice noodles, eggs, tofu or meat (commonly chicken or shrimp), bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tamarind-based sauce. The magic of Pad Thai lies in its sauce – a perfect balance of tangy tamarind, salty fish sauce, sweet palm sugar, and spicy chilli flakes. When tossed together with chewy noodles and garnished with lime wedges and crushed peanuts, it delivers a complex taste that satisfies all the taste buds.

Why Pad Thai Is So Popular In Melbourne?

Several factors contribute to the popularity of Pad Thai in Melbourne. First, it’s a dish that appeals to both adventurous foodies and those who prefer more familiar flavours. The combination of savoury, sweet, and tangy notes offers a comfortable entry point into Thai cuisine for newcomers, while the addition of chilli can satisfy spice lovers. Secondly, Pad Thai is customizable, with options to choose between different proteins, vegetarian alternatives, or varying levels of heat. In a city known for its emphasis on catering to different dietary needs, Pad Thai’s flexibility is a significant draw.

Lastly, Melbourne’s multicultural population has contributed to an ever-growing appreciation of authentic international cuisines. Thai immigrants have brought their culinary traditions to Melbourne, ensuring the availability of high-quality, authentic Pad Thai.

Other Must-Try Thai Dishes In Melbourne

While Pad Thai may hold the crown as Melbourne’s favourite Thai dish, it’s not the only contender. The city’s Thai food scene offers an array of delicious and exciting dishes that showcase the complexity of Thai cooking. Here are two other dishes that you should consider when exploring Thai cuisine in Melbourne:

Tom Yum Goong (Thai Hot And Sour Soup)

If you’re in the mood for something aromatic and packed with bold flavours, Tom Yum Goong is a perfect choice. This hot and sour soup features shrimp (goong), lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chilli peppers, creating a broth that is fragrant, tangy, and spicy. Tom Yum is renowned for its medicinal properties, thanks to its use of herbs that have immune-boosting and digestive benefits.

In Melbourne, Tom Yum Goong can be found in many Thai restaurants, either as a starter or a main dish. Some variations include mushrooms, tomatoes, and coconut milk, which can mellow out the spiciness of the dish. What makes Tom Yum so beloved is its ability to awaken the senses with every spoonful, making it a perfect option on a cold Melbourne evening or for those who appreciate strong, aromatic dishes.

Whether served as a standalone soup or as part of a multi-course meal, Tom Yum Goong is a testament to the versatility and depth of Thai cuisine.

Massaman Curry

For those who crave a rich and hearty dish, Massaman Curry is a must-try. This slow-cooked curry is influenced by Persian cuisine and features tender chunks of meat (usually beef or chicken), potatoes, peanuts, and a fragrant, mild curry sauce made with coconut milk, cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise. Unlike Thai green or red curries, which are known for their spiciness, Massaman Curry has a sweeter, milder flavour profile, making it a favourite for those who prefer less heat.

In Melbourne, Massaman Curry is a popular choice for both Thai food enthusiasts and those new to the cuisine. The dish is often paired with jasmine rice or roti, allowing diners to soak up the creamy, flavorful sauce. Its balance of sweet and savoury flavours, coupled with the fall-apart tenderness of the meat, makes Massaman Curry a comforting and satisfying meal.

As Thai cuisine continues to evolve in Melbourne, chefs are experimenting with variations of the classic Massaman Curry, incorporating modern twists while maintaining the dish’s core flavours. This makes it an exciting dish to explore at different restaurants across the city.

Where To Find The Best Thai Food In Melbourne

Melbourne is home to a thriving Thai food scene, with establishments catering to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a casual takeaway spot or a fine dining experience, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to indulging in authentic Thai flavours.

Longrain Melbourne

Longrain is one of Melbourne’s most iconic Thai restaurants, offering a contemporary take on traditional Thai dishes. Located in the heart of the city, Longrain is known for its communal dining experience, allowing guests to share large platters of food. Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and Massaman Curry are all on the menu, alongside other creative dishes such as stir-fried soft-shell crab and crispy duck salad.

Longrain’s extensive cocktail list also includes Thai-inspired drinks, making it a great place to enjoy a full dining experience. With its chic ambience and innovative approach to Thai food, Longrain remains a top choice for both locals and tourists alike.

Chin Chin

Another popular destination for Thai cuisine in Melbourne is Chin Chin, a trendy, bustling restaurant that offers a fusion of Thai and Southeast Asian flavours. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere, combined with its bold and innovative dishes, has made it a favourite among food enthusiasts.

Chin Chin’s menu features a variety of Thai-inspired dishes, including their famous Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong. The restaurant also offers unique twists on classics, such as its grilled pork belly with tamarind sauce and crispy barramundi with green papaya salad. Chin Chin is a must-visit for those looking to experience Thai cuisine with a modern twist.

Ying Thai

For a more traditional experience, Ying Thai in Carlton is known for serving authentic Thai dishes that transport you straight to Thailand. The restaurant’s no-frills approach focuses on bold flavours and quality ingredients, making it a local favourite for those seeking an unpretentious yet delicious Thai meal.

Ying Thai’s Pad Thai is particularly popular, as is their green curry, Som Tum (papaya salad), and Larb (spicy minced meat salad). The casual and friendly atmosphere, combined with reasonable prices, makes Ying Thai a go-to spot for a comforting and authentic Thai meal.

Conclusion

Thai cuisine has found a special place in Melbourne’s diverse culinary landscape, with Pad Thai leading the way as the most popular dish. However, the city’s love for Thai food extends beyond just noodles, with dishes like Tom Yum Goong and Massaman Curry also gaining a loyal following. Whether you’re new to Thai cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, Melbourne offers a wealth of options for indulging in authentic and flavorful Thai dishes.

From high-end restaurants to casual eateries, the city’s Thai food scene is rich, varied, and worth exploring. So, if you’re looking to experience the vibrant flavours of Thailand, Melbourne has you covered!

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