This new Thai restaurant is spicing up Riyadh’s dining scene
Thai Soi has that fine balance of sweet, sour, salty and spicy down pat…
Whether you’re looking to try something entirely new, test your tolerance for spice in a tangy som tum, or just want a good old pad kra pao, this Thai joint will have something good to satiate your cravings.
The latest darling of new restaurants in town, Thai Soi is an authentic Thai eatery nestled at Awal Plaza in Riyadh. Here, you get a youthful, colourfully casual spot that serves modern renditions of classic Thai recipes. The most exciting part? It’s helmed by Thai chefs, so you know you’re getting the real deal.
From vibrant curries bursting with aromatic spices to delicate stir-fried creations, each plate showcases the depth and complexity of Thai cuisine. The swell of bright dishes includes familiar staples like larb kai (minced chicken served on lettuce), som tum (green papaya salad), massaman curry, and pad thai.
The Tom Yum Kung soup (SAR29 per bowl) is an absolute must-try, as it uses prawn stock made from scratch. With every sip, we can taste the briny freshness of the prawn and a tangy fragrance from the lemongrass and spices. It may look unassuming, but it is packed with serious flavour.
Among our other favourites are the Thai-style marinated beef skewers served with peanut sauce (SAR34) and the stir-fried Drunken Noodles (SAR59) if you’re in the mood for a spicy kick. The spice level for the dishes here are adjustable, though, so feel free to let the staff know if you’d like it to be mildly spicy or very spicy.
And for a refreshing respite from the spice load, wash down the dishes with mocktails such as Mango Boba.
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Thai Soi has a warm and inviting atmosphere that embraces you from the moment you enter. The intimate dining space features a striking mural and has a relaxed feeling, inspired by the bustling streets of Bangkok. Its interior is marked by a bar area and a glass-fronted display kitchen, allowing diners to watch the chefs as they prepare their meals.
Thai Soi is a welcome addition to Awal Plaza; plus, it’s easy on the wallet (nothing above SAR60) and ideal for a casual dinner outing with friends. There are some hiccups in terms of service during our visit, but it is still in its soft opening phase, so expect that kinks are continuing to be worked out.
Thai Soi, 4pm to midnight (soft opening), Awal Plaza, Al Takhassousi, Al Mathar Ash Shamali, Riyadh 12312. @thaisoi.sa
Images: Instagram