In 2024, UFood editors have compiled a curated list of essential Thai restaurants in Kowloon City, the vibrant heart of Hong Kong’s Thai community. This guide features nearly a dozen establishments, ranging from authentic family-run stalls to contemporary dining spots, providing a comprehensive resource for anyone eager to explore the area’s rich culinary landscape.
Kowloon City has become a cultural hub for Thai immigrants since many began settling in the neighborhood. Today, streets like Fa Foo Lane, Nga Ying Tsz Road, Nam Kok Road, and Lung Kong Road host over 200 eateries, with Thai restaurants making up roughly 30 percent of them. The annual Songkran Water Festival, first held in 2007, has further reinforced the area’s identity as “Little Thailand.” Visitors can easily pair a trip to the Kowloon Walled City Park with a flavorful meal at one of these recommended spots.
The selection showcases both traditional dishes and inventive recipes ideal for sharing. Here are the standout options:
- Kam Thai Grill & Kam Thai Smoothie: A two-decade-old staple known for its grilled skewers, such as whole chicken wings and pork collar, coated in a signature peanut or spicy dipping sauce. The grill offers dine-in service, while the takeaway outlet focuses on smoothies. Address: Kam Thai Grill at G/F, 386A-B Prince Edward Road West; Kam Thai Smoothie at A2, 21 Nga Ying Wai Road. Open noon to 11 PM.
- Chao Phraya Thai Restaurant: Operating since the 1990s, this spot is famous for its boat noodles made with a heirloom broth containing pork bones, black garlic oil, and aromatic spices. The soup often sells out before dinner. Address: G/F, 19 Lung Kong Road. Open 11:30 AM to 10 PM.
- Cambo Thai Cuisine: A veteran since 1991, it specializes in seafood dishes like chili clams and raw shrimp. The popular “bao jiang shrimp balls” feature crispy exteriors and succulent fillings. Address: G/F, 25 Nga Ying Tsz Road. Open 11:30 AM to 11 PM.
- Thai Royal Castle: Run by Thai chefs, this restaurant serves grilled Angus beef and curry soft shell crab in a setting adorned with Thai murals and wooden furniture. Address: G/F, 15 & 19 Nga Ying Tsz Road. Open noon to 10 PM.
- Orange Elephant Thai Restaurant: Known for affordable, generous portions, it offers photogenic plates like coconut seafood rice and egg-netted pad thai. A branch in North Point extends its reach. Address: G/F, 31-33 Kai Tak Road. Open noon to 5 PM and 6 to 11 PM.
- Golden Orchid Thai Restaurant: A fixture since 1993, it serves classic dishes such as stir-fried clams with basil and lemongrass, and a signature Thai-style bun dipped in yellow curry. The restaurant does not charge a service fee. Address: 10-12 Lung Kong Road. Open noon to 10 PM.
- BTS Food Station: Named after Bangkok’s metro, this eatery stays open until 1 AM, making it ideal for late dining. It offers crispy pork knuckle and a seafood stew inspired by Thai army base recipes. Address: G/F, 11 Nam Kok Road. Open noon to 1 AM.
- Lung Jie Thai Food Stall: With two branches, this stall uses 90 percent Thai ingredients, ensuring authentic flavors. Highlights include a pumpkin curry that often sells out early. Address: G/F, 2A-B Nga Ying Tsz Road and 21-23 Nam Kok Road. Hours vary by location, typically from morning to late evening.
This guide serves not only as a practical tool for diners but also as a tribute to the Thai community’s culinary heritage in Hong Kong. From recipes passed down through generations to innovative presentations designed for sharing, Kowloon City’s Thai food scene continues to evolve. For those planning a visit, combining a meal with a walk through the historic Kowloon Walled City area offers a richer experience. Bookmark these addresses for your next culinary exploration.