Central Florida’s dining scene has exploded with incredible Thai restaurants in Central Florida that bring authentic flavors from Thailand right to your doorstep. From family-owned gems serving royal recipes to modern fusion spots, the region offers something for every Thai food lover. Whether you’re craving perfectly balanced pad thai or adventurous regional specialties like khao soi, these ten establishments represent the absolute best dining experiences you’ll find across the diverse landscape of Thai restaurants in Central Florida.
1. Lan Lamoon Authentic Thai Bistro – royal family recipe heritage
Lan Lamoon stands apart with its incredible backstory and unmatched authenticity. This Daytona Beach gem was founded by a Thai couple using family recipes passed down from a grandmother who cooked for the Thai Royal Palace during King Rama VI’s reign. The modern, spotlessly clean interior creates a fine-dining atmosphere while maintaining comfortable casual vibes.
Signature dishes:
- Whole snapper with choice of specialty sauces (sweet & sour, ginger, or basil)
- Panang salmon featuring pan-seared fish in rich, creamy curry
- Pork jerky fried rice offering unique, deeply savory flavors
What makes it special: The royal heritage recipes create sophisticated dishes you won’t find elsewhere. Their basil duck showcases techniques passed down through generations. The restaurant also excels at accommodating dietary restrictions with clearly marked gluten-free options.
The experience: Diners consistently praise the authentic flavors and elegant presentation. The pineapple fried rice arrives as both visual spectacle and taste sensation. However, prices run higher than typical Thai spots, with specialty dishes reaching $31+. Service can slow during peak weekend hours.
Details:
- Address: 2900 S Nova Rd, Unit 1, South Daytona, FL 32119
- Phone: (386) 944-9644
- Website: lanlamoonthaifl.com
- Price range: $18-$31+ per entree
- Hours: Check website for both locations
2. Lemon Grass Thai Kitchen – six-time award winner
Lemon Grass has earned serious local credibility by winning “Best Thai Restaurant” in Creative Loafing’s “Best of the Bay” awards six times between 2015-2023. Among Thai restaurants in Central Florida, this level of consistent recognition stands out as truly exceptional. They operate two locations: South Tampa focuses on takeout and delivery, while Riverview offers full dine-in service.
Signature dishes:
- Pad thai with over 90% positive ratings from 3,000+ delivery reviews
- Panang or green curry paired with crispy duck or filet salmon
- Tom kha coconut soup delivering fragrant, creamy comfort
What makes it special: Their dual-location model serves different customer needs perfectly. The chef’s specials like whole crispy red snapper elevate the experience beyond typical Thai takeout. Consistent quality has built a devoted following across Tampa Bay.
The experience: Customers love the reliability and generous portions. The pad thai tastes fresh even for takeout orders. Quality remains consistent whether dining in Riverview or ordering delivery from Tampa. Some diners note prices run 15-20% above average for the area.
Details:
- Addresses: 3635 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa (takeout only) & 11106 W Bloomingdale Ave, Riverview (dine-in)
- Phones: (813) 514-4349 (Tampa), (813) 654-0671 (Riverview)
- Website: lemongrassbestthai.biz
- Price range: $16-$30 per entree
- Hours: Check website for both locations
3. Thai Thani Celebration – extensive vegan paradise
Located in the picturesque planned community of Celebration, Thai Thani offers one of the most comprehensive vegan menus among Thai restaurants in Central Florida. The cozy, calm atmosphere makes it perfect for families seeking both comfort and dietary accommodation.
Signature dishes:
- Kho soi (Northern Thai coconut curry noodle soup)
- Duck jacuzzi featuring roasted duck with pineapple and lychee in panang sauce
- Any vegan dish from their dedicated plant-based menu section
What makes it special: The extensive vegan offerings include mock duck, beef and chicken options. Vegan curry puffs and dumplings show serious commitment to plant-based dining. The Northern Thai specialties like kho soi demonstrate authentic regional knowledge.
The experience: Vegan diners rave about the clearly marked options and outstanding flavors. Service stays attentive throughout meals with staff checking regularly. Generous portions satisfy even hearty appetites. The calm atmosphere occasionally lacks energy during slower periods.
Details:
- Address: 600 Market St #110, Kissimmee, FL 34747
- Phone: (407) 566-9444
- Website: thaithanifl.com
- Price range: $18-$28+ per entree
- Hours: Check website for current schedule
4. Jao Thai Kitchen – adventurous spice specialist
This Melbourne strip-mall surprise creates a lively atmosphere reminiscent of authentic Thai street food markets. Jao Thai boasts the most extensive menu in the area with hard-to-find regional specialties and represents one of the most adventurous Thai restaurants in Central Florida with a serious commitment to customizable heat levels.
Signature dishes:
- Khao soi earning rave reviews as “the best damn khao soi ever”
- Chicken basil (pad krapow) praised by Thailand travelers for authenticity
- Fire dragon roll combining Thai kitchen skills with sushi expertise
What makes it special: The spice scale ranges from 1-7 with a tableside “spice cart” for heat customization. Their authentic street food atmosphere energizes the dining experience. The dual Thai-sushi menu offers unique variety under one roof.
The experience: Diners often discover Jao Thai by accident and become instant converts. The authentic flavors transport you straight to Thailand’s streets. Prices run higher than competitors, but the quality justifies every penny. The strip-mall location might surprise first-time visitors.
Details:
- Address: 914 W New Haven Ave, Melbourne, FL 32901
- Phone: (321) 914-0708
- Website: jaothaikitchen.com
- Price range: Higher end but worth the cost
- Hours: Check website for current schedule
5. Sea Thai Restaurant – critically acclaimed date night spot
Sea Thai has built a reputation as Orlando’s premier Thai date night destination with its warm, relaxed atmosphere that exceeds typical plaza restaurant expectations. This family-run establishment earned critical recognition from the Orlando Sentinel.
Signature dishes:
- Spicy basil noodles (pad kee mow/drunken noodles)
- Yellow curry with chicken cooked to perfection
- Steamed dumplings as consistently popular starters
What makes it special: Winner of “Best Thai” in 2021 Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards. The family-business warmth creates genuine hospitality. Long-time Orlando residents finally discovering it often regret waiting so long.
The experience: The authentic flavors impress even Thailand travelers who know traditional cuisine well. Service stays friendly and efficient throughout meals. The plaza location doesn’t hint at the quality within. Some dishes could use more consistent spice levels across visits.
Details:
- Address: 3812 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Phone: (407) 895-0985
- Website: seathaiorlando.com
- Price range: Mid-range pricing
- Hours: Check website for current schedule
6. Thai House of Orlando – decades of consistency
Operating since the 1990s, Thai House represents old-school Orlando dining with quaint, homey charm. The unique traditional seating area with low tables near the entrance adds whimsical touches to the relaxed atmosphere.
Signature dishes:
- Pad thai with perfect sweetness and tang balance
- Red curry described as “absolutely amazingggg” by regulars
- Mango sticky rice serving as heavenly meal endings
What makes it special: Three decades of operation proves consistent quality and community trust. The traditional seating area offers authentic Thai dining posture. Excellent gluten-free accommodations with knowledgeable staff.
The experience: Long-time customers spanning 15-20 years never experience disappointment. The authentic flavors and fresh ingredients create delightful dining memories. Gluten-free diners eat worry-free with extensive options. The dated decor might not appeal to modern aesthetic preferences.
Details:
- Address: 2117 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32803
- Phone: (407) 898-0820
- Price range: Mid-range and reasonable
- Hours: Check current operating schedule
7. Siam Garden Thai Restaurant – unique “bring your catch” service
As St. Petersburg’s longest-running Thai restaurant since the 1980s, Siam Garden offers intimate, homestyle dining with award-winning cooking made without MSG. Their innovative service sets them apart from every other restaurant.
Signature dishes:
- Panang curry earning consistent rave reviews
- Pad thai with over 1,200 positive delivery platform mentions
- Ka pao kai sup (minced chicken with Thai basil and fried egg)
What makes it special: The “Bring Your Catch” service lets local anglers bring fresh fish for multi-course Thai preparation. Historic significance as the area’s Thai cuisine pioneer. Family-friendly atmosphere welcomes all ages comfortably.
The experience: The panang chicken creates “wow” moments with amazing flavors. Sweet sticky rice with coconut ice cream provides perfect dessert endings. Lunch specials offer excellent value for money. Limited parking can challenge busy evening visits.
Details:
- Address: 3125 9th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704
- Phone: (727) 822-0613
- Price range: Affordable, $12-$17 entrees
- Hours: Check for current operating schedule
8. Thai Prime Kitchen & Bar – upscale modern glamour
Located on Tampa’s busy Boy Scout Boulevard restaurant row, Thai Prime brings sophisticated dining with edgy design mixing reclaimed wood, brick and crystal birdcage light fixtures. The large, ambitious space creates high-energy upscale environments that set it apart from most casual Thai restaurants in Central Florida.
Signature dishes:
- Volcano hot plates with sizzling jumbo shrimp and scallops
- Nam sod or yum duck traditional salads with bracing chili-lime flavors
- Sushi rolls during happy hour specials
What makes it special: Professional large-scale execution elevates Thai dining sophistication. The full sushi bar expands menu variety significantly. Crystal fixtures and glamorous touches create Instagram-worthy ambiance.
The experience: The wonderful addition to “Chain Row” impresses with atmosphere and presentation. Sushi quality receives high marks from experienced diners. Dine-in experiences typically outshine delivery orders for flavor consistency. Higher prices reflect the upscale positioning and ambiance.
Details:
- Address: 4142 West Boy Scout Blvd #5 & 6, Tampa, FL 33607
- Website: thaiprime.com
- Price range: Upscale, $26-$37+ entrees
- Hours: Check website for current schedule
9. Spice Thai & Sushi – custom heat specialists
Spice Thai & Sushi serves Lakeland with versatile dining celebrating both Thai and Japanese cuisines. Their dedication to customizable spice levels empowers diners to tailor meals to exact preferences.
Signature dishes:
- Pad thai with customizable heat levels as the #1 delivery favorite
- Panang curry ranking as second most popular with rich, creamy texture
- Fresh rolls featuring lettuce, shrimp, crab stick and seaweed salad
What makes it special: Custom heat level accommodation for any dish shows deep spice understanding. The dual Thai-sushi menu serves diverse group preferences. Consistent quality across over 1,000 delivery ratings builds trust.
The experience: Fast delivery maintains food quality and temperature perfectly. Custom heat levels let spice lovers and mild preferrers dine together happily. Regular customers appreciate the consistently amazing quality. Some sushi items receive occasional mixed reviews compared to Thai offerings.
Details:
- Address: 3895 Florida Ave S, Lakeland, FL 33813
- Phone: (863) 709-8321
- Website: spicethaisushirestaurant.com
- Price range: Mid-range, $16-$18 entrees
- Closed: Tuesdays
10. Zen Bistro – serene patio dining
Zen Bistro provides tranquil escapes in Daytona Beach with gorgeous patio featuring open firepits. The quaint, family atmosphere focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients with elegant presentation.
Signature dishes:
- Red curry customizable without coconut milk for maximum heat
- Authentic Thai cuisine made with fresh, all-natural ingredients
- Great tea selection complementing the serene dining experience
What makes it special: The firepit patio creates beautiful outdoor dining atmospheres. Elegant plating shows attention to presentation details. Family ownership maintains personal service and quality control.
The experience: Elegant plating and perfect spicing create memorable meals among Daytona’s limited quality dining options. The fresh ingredients and balanced seasoning showcase culinary skill. Past health inspection issues were resolved, maintaining current “A” grades. Limited indoor seating might challenge during bad weather.
Details:
- Address: 223 Magnolia Ave, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
- Phone: (386) 248-0453
- Website: zenbistrodaytona.com
- Price range: Mid-range to slightly upscale
- Hours: Check website for current schedule
Central Florida’s Thai restaurants offer incredible diversity from royal heritage recipes to modern fusion experiences. Whether you’re seeking authentic street food flavors, family-friendly dining, or upscale date night atmospheres, these Thai restaurants in Central Florida deliver exceptional Thai cuisine that honors tradition while embracing innovation. Your perfect Thai meal awaits in the Sunshine State.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lan Lamoon Authentic Thai Bistro in Daytona Beach tops our list with its royal family recipe heritage and sophisticated flavor profiles. Their dishes feature techniques passed down from a grandmother who cooked for the Thai Royal Palace, creating unmatched authenticity. The whole snapper and panang salmon showcase this royal culinary lineage perfectly.
Most Thai restaurants in Central Florida charge $16-$28 per entree, with upscale spots like Thai Prime reaching $26-$37+. Affordable options like Siam Garden offer entrees for $12-$17, while premium establishments like Lan Lamoon charge $18-$31+ for specialty dishes. Lunch specials typically cost less than dinner pricing.
Many Thai restaurants in Central Florida close by 9-10 PM, but hours vary by location and day. Lemon Grass Thai Kitchen offers extended delivery hours through their Tampa location. We recommend calling ahead or checking restaurant websites for current operating hours, as many adjust schedules seasonally.
Must-try dishes include Lan Lamoon's whole snapper with specialty sauces, Jao Thai Kitchen's authentic khao soi, and Thai Thani's extensive vegan offerings. Lemon Grass's award-winning pad thai and Sea Thai's spicy basil noodles represent local favorites. Don't miss Siam Garden's unique "bring your catch" service for fresh fish preparation.
Thai Thani Celebration in Kissimmee excels for families with its calm atmosphere and extensive vegan menu accommodating dietary restrictions. Siam Garden in St. Petersburg offers family-friendly environments with affordable pricing. For large groups, call ahead for reservations, especially at popular spots like Sea Thai Restaurant.
Yes, most Thai restaurants in Central Florida accommodate various dietary needs. Thai Thani offers the most extensive vegan menu with mock meats and plant-based options. Thai House of Orlando provides excellent gluten-free accommodations with knowledgeable staff. Lan Lamoon clearly marks gluten-free dishes throughout their menu.
First-time Thai diners should start with mild (level 1-2) or request "mai phet" (not spicy). Most restaurants customize heat levels from 0-5, with level 3 being medium for experienced spice eaters. Jao Thai Kitchen offers a helpful tableside "spice cart" for heat customization. Always specify your tolerance when ordering.
