A Taste of Authenticity: How We Chose These Restaurants
The tantalizing fragrance of lemongrass, the vibrant hues of chili peppers, and the harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy – these are just a few of the reasons why Thai cuisine has captivated palates around the globe. If you find yourself in Hillsboro, Oregon, and are craving an escape to the exotic flavors of Southeast Asia, you’re in luck. Hillsboro boasts a surprisingly diverse and delectable selection of Thai restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience. This guide will navigate you through some of the best spots in Hillsboro to satisfy your Thai food desires, uncovering both hidden gems and local favorites. We’ll explore the authentic family-run kitchens and the modern interpretations that make the Thai food scene in Hillsboro so vibrant and rewarding.
Before we embark on our culinary adventure, it’s important to understand the criteria we used to curate this list. We didn’t just pick names out of a hat; instead, we delved deep into the Hillsboro community, consulting online reviews from platforms like Yelp and Google, soliciting recommendations from local food enthusiasts, and carefully scrutinizing menus for authentic Thai dishes that go beyond the typical Pad Thai and spring rolls. Our focus was on restaurants that demonstrated a commitment to fresh ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and a genuine passion for sharing the flavors of Thailand. We also considered ambiance and service, seeking establishments that offered a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. While this list represents our top picks, we encourage you to explore beyond these suggestions and discover your own personal favorites. The world of Thai food Hillsboro Oregon has to offer is waiting for you to discover it.
Taste of Thai
Nestled in the heart of downtown Hillsboro, Taste of Thai is a long-standing favorite among locals. This family-owned restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, making you feel instantly welcome the moment you step inside. The aroma of simmering curries and stir-fries fills the air, promising a truly authentic Thai experience. The décor is simple yet charming, with traditional Thai artwork adorning the walls.
One must-try dish at Taste of Thai is their Green Curry. This vibrant curry is made with fresh green chilies, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, eggplant, and basil, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue. You can choose your preferred protein, from chicken and beef to tofu and shrimp, and specify your desired spice level. Another standout dish is the Pad Kee Mao, also known as Drunken Noodles. These wide rice noodles are stir-fried with chilies, garlic, basil, onions, tomatoes, and your choice of protein, resulting in a bold and flavorful dish with a fiery kick. Taste of Thai also offers a wide selection of appetizers, soups, salads, and entrees, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. They pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. The price range for most entrees falls between twelve and fifteen dollars. What sets Taste of Thai apart is their unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity, along with their friendly and attentive service. As one reviewer raved, “This is the real deal! The best Thai food Hillsboro Oregon has to offer!”
Thai Cottage
Located just a short drive from downtown, Thai Cottage offers a more modern and upscale dining experience. The restaurant boasts a sleek and contemporary design, with stylish lighting, comfortable seating, and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work. The ambiance is both elegant and inviting, making it perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Thai Cottage is known for its innovative take on traditional Thai cuisine. While they offer classic dishes like Pad Thai and Massaman Curry, they also feature a range of unique and creative creations. One dish that consistently receives rave reviews is the Panang Salmon. A perfectly grilled salmon filet is topped with a rich and creamy Panang curry sauce, made with coconut milk, red curry paste, peanuts, and kaffir lime leaves. The combination of the flaky salmon and the fragrant curry is simply divine. Another highlight is the Khao Soi, a Northern Thai noodle soup made with egg noodles, coconut curry broth, pickled mustard greens, shallots, chilies, and lime. This dish is both comforting and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. Thai Cottage also offers a selection of handcrafted cocktails and a curated wine list to complement your meal. Most entrees range from fifteen to twenty dollars. What makes Thai Cottage stand out is its dedication to culinary innovation and its sophisticated atmosphere. They elevate the Thai dining experience to a whole new level. “A truly exceptional dining experience,” one satisfied customer wrote. “The most innovative Thai food Hillsboro Oregon has seen.”
Siam Lotus Thai Cuisine
If you’re looking for a more casual and budget-friendly option, Siam Lotus Thai Cuisine is an excellent choice. This unassuming restaurant may not look like much from the outside, but it serves up some seriously delicious Thai food at incredibly reasonable prices. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends.
Siam Lotus Thai Cuisine is a family run establishment focused on delivering authentic flavors. Many describe the food as a comforting reminder of home cooking. You absolutely must try the Tom Yum soup, a spicy and sour broth infused with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and mushrooms. This soup is both invigorating and comforting, and can be customized with your choice of protein. Another popular dish is the Pad See Ew, wide rice noodles stir-fried with Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein. The slightly charred noodles and savory-sweet sauce make this a classic comfort food. Siam Lotus also offers a variety of lunch specials that are incredibly affordable, making it a popular choice for students and office workers. Entrees generally cost between ten and fifteen dollars. The restaurant also offers many options for vegetarian and gluten-free diets. What makes Siam Lotus Thai Cuisine special is its unbeatable value and its consistently delicious food. It proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy authentic Thai flavors. “Amazing food at an amazing price,” a loyal customer declared. “The best budget friendly Thai food Hillsboro Oregon has available.”
Thai Basil
Thai Basil provides a slightly more elegant ambiance than some of the more family oriented places, offering a refined dining experience. The interior is decorated with elegant Thai artwork and soft lighting.
A signature dish at Thai Basil is the Spicy Basil Duck. Crispy duck is flash fried and topped with a rich basil sauce. Also highly recommended is the mango sticky rice for dessert, a seasonal dish that is both delicious and refreshing. Thai Basil also offers a unique selection of Thai teas and beverages. Main courses are between twelve and eighteen dollars. Thai Basil distinguishes itself from other establishments by offering high quality ingredients prepared with an obvious pride in their art.
Beyond the Plate: Thai Ingredients in Hillsboro
While dining out is a fantastic way to experience Thai cuisine, you can also bring the flavors of Thailand into your own kitchen. Hillsboro is home to several Asian markets and grocery stores where you can find a wide variety of Thai ingredients, from fresh herbs and spices to authentic sauces and pastes. Stocking up on these ingredients will allow you to recreate your favorite Thai dishes at home and experiment with new recipes. Some popular Thai ingredients to look for include lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil, fish sauce, soy sauce, coconut milk, red curry paste, green curry paste, and rice noodles. With a little practice, you can easily master the art of Thai cooking and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. Remember, authentic ingredients contribute significantly to the genuine taste of Thai food Hillsboro Oregon consumers have come to love.
Tips for Ordering and Embracing the Thai Culinary Adventure
Embarking on a Thai food journey can be a delightful experience, but it’s helpful to have a few tips in mind. Spice levels in Thai cuisine can vary greatly, so it’s important to communicate your preference when ordering. If you prefer mild dishes, you can say “mai phet” (not spicy) or “phet nit noi” (a little spicy). For those who enjoy a fiery kick, you can say “phet mak” (very spicy). It’s also a good idea to order a variety of dishes to share, allowing you to sample a wider range of flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to try new things and step outside your comfort zone. When it comes to drinks, Thai iced tea, Singha beer, and coconut water are all excellent choices to complement your meal. And remember, a little bit of Thai language can go a long way. Saying “Sawasdee” (Hello) and “Khop Khun” (Thank you) will be greatly appreciated by the restaurant staff.
A Culinary Conclusion
Hillsboro’s Thai restaurants offer a delightful culinary escape, transporting you to the vibrant streets of Thailand with every bite. From the authentic flavors of Taste of Thai to the innovative creations of Thai Cottage and the budget-friendly delights of Siam Lotus Thai Cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, whether you’re a seasoned Thai food aficionado or a curious newcomer, we encourage you to explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide and discover your own favorite Thai dishes. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your culinary adventures. Remember, the exploration of Thai food Hillsboro Oregon delivers is not just about the food itself, it’s about the experience, the culture, and the community. Get ready for a flavorful adventure, as you won’t be disappointed.
