This was my first time eating at Kao, and as someone who absolutely loves Thai food, I was really excited to try it. The atmosphere was amazing, a cozy quaint spot in a what seemed to be a great part of the city. The bar was nice and overall decor of the restaurant was eclectic without feeling overdone. Our server (I believe her name was Havvy), was pleasant as well. We started with the crab rangoons and spring rolls. The crab rangoons were a 10/10, and the spring rolls were solid as well. I'd definitely order both again. I ordered the pad kapow, which is my go-to dish I like to start with at any new Thai restaurant. The presentation of the rice was really cute and the dish itself was rich and full of flavor. My husband ordered the pineapple fried rice with beef, it was phenomenal, just as flavorful and satisfying. We ordered cocktails as well, which were made perfectly, and since it was our anniversary, we treated ourself to the coconut cake. After the first bite, I wasn't sure about the cake, but by the second bite I was SOLD. If you're looking for a laidback, non-pretentious spot to enjoy a great meal, cocktails or even just a small bite, I definitely recommend. read more

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KAO is a nice little date-night spot right off Main Street. It's "fancier Thai" kind of like Basil which is located in Forest Acres. How did it hold up? Pros: - Fair prices (it is considered "fancier") - Fun cocktails - Food was great - Seating was nice and spaced out (not super close to anyone) - Cons: - Food Menu was typical for Thai I'd overall recommend KAO. It's in a great location for downtown (super close to the beginning of mainstreet) and it's a fun little date night. I had the drunken noodles with chicken and my date had shrimp/chicken padthai. They were both really solid. Not like...amazingly phenomenal, but a really tasty dinner. I recently went to 929 and was glad to not be sitting right beside someone. It was nice to be able to have a conversation without hearing other people's. read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Drunken Noodles with Chicken - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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We came in on a Saturday night and it was 29 degrees with high winds, hence, we got seated right away. Service is amazing, our server was friendly and had a smile on her face, shared useful information. Food came out fast and well portioned. Cozy ambiance, tasty Thai cuisine , yes, I would come back and try their other dishes. read more

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The food is good. I had pork gyoza and shrimp Shumai. My daughter had drunken noodles. Izzy was our waitress and she did a good job. It's a small place, very quaint. It was an enjoyable meal. read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Pork Gyoza and Shrimp Shumai - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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I got a curry and it was phenomenal just perfect on a cold chilly day. We were from out of town so we were looking for something warm and cozy near our hotel and this was it. We also got the spicy edamame which was delicious. The waiter was very sweet and had fast service. read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Panang Curry - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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Wow! Very very very good. I would 100% come back here. My fiancé and I split the duck curry (my fav) and the Senate Street Noodles. The duck curry was more of a sweet heat, and you eat it with rice - omg I'm drooling now thinking of it. The Senate Street noodles were also amazing and you get a variety of different proteins too. The spiciness on both of the foods were just the right amount where it wasn't overpowering. Our server was also very friendly and we weren't waiting on our food very long. The inside of the restaurant was decorated really cute and I would recommend to friends in Columbia! read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Lychee Duck Curry - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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Delicious, and our waitress was awesome - Caitlyn! The drunken noodle with chicken was so good and the flavor was excellent , kind of unexpected. It was so good. read more

Red curry was awesome! My daughter got drunken noodles. Both were sweet and spicy the way we like them! read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Red curry - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

Totally forgot to check in today but what a great find. Finally some good Thai with such cute ambiance and service was great. I strayed away from my norm pad see eww and wasn't craving a curry. The flavors were delicious and portion sizes here were very fair for the size. I cant wait to come back and try more! read more

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We celebrated my daughter's 21st birthday here and were not disappointed! Everything about our visit was amazing. The staff let me ask what felt like a million questions about seating/reservations, the cake etc; they were patient and kind. Our server, Ellis, was the best! She was so attentive to every guest in our large party answering everyone's questions with ease and comfort; she knows her stuff. Our food came out in what felt like the perfect timing from our apps to entrees. All of the food was fantastic! EVERY DISH...FANTASTIC. We loved the decor here, the music and lighting were just right. We've been back a few times since this check in. We just can't get enough of this place! read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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This is a classic Cola staple! The food is consistent and delicious, and the staff is kind and helpful. They will help with easily making adjustments to the orders, depending on things like spice tolerance and preference. The cocktails are great as well with friendly bartenders who always help me when I can't make a decision. Love this place! read more

Stopped in for an early dinner and was able to check out happy hour. The bartender was great. She was super friendly, helpful with suggestions and made a great cocktail. The HH specials were pretty good with a decent selection of discounted food and bar items. I had the crab curry for my entree and thoroughly enjoyed it. The made my requested adjustments and it came out fast, hot, and delicious. I will definitely return when I am in the area next. read more

So Thai is our favorite cuisine, therefore our expectations are a bit high. This place is cute, it's quaint, the customer service was fine, nothing great but not bad either. We ordered: vegetable spring rolls: the filling was very mushy, I think they were pre-frozen, not a fan. The papaya salad: didn't fire on all cylinders. It was missing that famous sweet, salty, spicy, crunchy element. It was also missing long beans, lime, and dried shrimp, so that was a bummer. Pork belly bowl: Joel said it was okay, it has A LOT of noodles, a good amount pork belly, and not enough veggies, but he liked the flavor. Chicken curry: was flavorful! The meat was a bit dry, but that tends to be the case with chicken breast. Because it's our first time, we'll come back to try more dishes, we'll see how it goes. read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Pork belly bowl & chicken curry - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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I came here to pick up a takeout order but upon entering the place I was greeted with a warm welcome from the hostess. The space looked so cozy and quaint. The food was better than expected. It was pricier than what I'm used to from eating at Thai restaurants but I'd say that it's worth the price. I paid $20 for the pork belly dish and $9 for the papaya salad. Both were phenomenal. If I were to visit Columbia, SC again, I'd definitely come back! read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Pork Belly Ba Mee - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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Referred by a friend so decided to try and do glad we did! Had a mojito and it was sooo good! The duck was excellent and tender! Excellent service and the ambiance was nice since it's an open face restaurant. Will pass on the referral read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Duck & Mojito - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

The food at Kao Thai is disappointing and mediocre. I had Tom Kha soup, and it was very good, but the Pad Thai was terrible. Pad Thai is the Thai equivalent of spaghetti and meatballs at an Italian restaurant, so if such a basic dish isn't good, it's a very bad sign. My pad Thai smelled like it had been fried in rancid oil and the chicken pieces were tough, almost like jerky. It's a dish that I've eaten around the world so I do know what it should taste like, and Kao Thai's version is NOT it. I'll stick with Mai Thai restaurant from now on. read more

Kao is a great place to go for a delicious bite of Thai cuisine. The food is always fresh and full of flavor. The quality truly stands out. It's located in a perfect spot in downtown Columbia, making it an easy stop whether you're exploring or heading out for a night in the city. Don't forget HaPpY Hour. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can enjoy your meal just the way you like. Definitely a must try! read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Pork Gyoza - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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Stopped here for dinner while on a work trip. I decided to sit outside which was a treat because the restaurant directly next door had a live saxophonist playing. For my drink I got the Mapow Mojito which was refreshing. For an appetizer I had the Shrimp Shumai steamed which was a take on steamed dumplings. Those were good I just wished they were larger. For my entree I got the Pad See Ew with Beef. I've had better Pad See Ew but this dish was still good. The portions were also relatively large for the price. My server was friendly and attentive. Overall I would give this place a shot because it has a cool atmosphere and the prices are reasonable. It is a small spot though so if you have a large party I would recommend making a reservation if possible. read more

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The food was delicious and the service was phenomenal. See yall the next time I visit South Carolina read more

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I hesitated to write this review. I have been to Kao many times, and normally, it's great. However, last night was a different story. I met a friend there for dinner, and we had reservations. A server came to our table promptly, and we ordered an appetizer and drinks, followed by entrees a little while later. All of the food was fantastic. During our meal, a staff member came to our table, as well as the table next to us, and asked us to move because a large party had come in, who also had reservations. We were told we could take our food with us to the new table. We had to carry it all ourselves...across the restaurant...to a table with no silverware or napkins. What the heck? My friend had ordered a drink right before we moved, and she didn't get it until 30 minutes later, along with a box for my food that I couldn't finish because I had no utensils. I let our server know how the whole experience put a damper on our evening, and she did ask what she could do to make it right. I don't think she was aware that we had been asked to move. The manager also came over and apologized. All in all, it was a very disappointing experience from a restaurant that I have always looked forward to going to. I'll probably give it another chance, but it will be awhile. read more

Excellent Thai food. Nice atmosphere. Food is amazing. Nice hot tea and cocktail specials read more

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Stopped in on a business trip and grabbed some appetizers. As good as they were I wish I would have had time for dinner. Based on appetizers only this place was fantastic. I will definitely find my way back here. read more

The atmosphere is nice, the service is good, and the food tastes good. However, the dishes are more like Thai food adapted for foreigners. For example, the Thai papaya salad even had cilantro and scallion added, which isn't typical for traditional som tam. It's not bad, just a more internationalized version of Thai cuisine rather than authentic Thai flavors. If you're Thai and craving authentic Thai food, I wouldn't really recommend it. But if you're going for the atmosphere and to enjoy a nice cold draft Singha beer, then it's a pleasant place to hang out. read more

Kao is a GREAT place for a date night. The atmosphere is a total vibe with plush seating and a dope decor. The staff is super friendly, from the hostess to the bartenders to the wait staff. They provided exceptional service and had the perfect balance of checking in without being overbearing. To start I had the steamed shrimp shumai. They were cooked to perfection and unlike most places it came topped with a sweet and spicy sauce and sprinkled with some seasoning that added a really nice touch to the dish. To drink I opted for the Lychee Mule with the spiced rum and it was delicious. The drink was refreshing and balanced. As for my entree I ordered the Pork Belly Ba Mee. I was expecting the pork belly to be prepared differently but this dish didn't disappoint in the least bit. The broth was balanced with a nice balance of umami, sweetness and a slight kick. Overall I had a great experience and am looking forward to my next visit. read more

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I honestly have to start by saying my drink was AMAZING! My waitress Violet AMazing! I love the vibe of this place and that B people actually were dressed up to eat hear made it seem a little more fancy and special. I had the gluten free version of the pad se eww it was good and my bf had the Pad Kapow with he enjoyed. I need to say again how amazing the drinks are here and the best mojito I've ever had! read more

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Wonderful date night with my wife at this beautiful restaurant. They have many vegan and vegetarian options which is a pleasant surprise for Columbia. The waitstaff is very friendly and knowledgeable of the menu and made some excellent recommendations. The brussel sprouts were a big hit for both my wife and I. They also have some really good carnivore options for the non-vegans. read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Crispy Brussels Sprouts - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

A day out in the Metro ... The wife decided we would try out Kao. Dope scenery right on Main St . Put you in the feel of spot in Manhattan minus the people . I hate to be repetitive at the Thai spots but I had to try the Crab Rangoon and the Crispy Chicken Wings (Spicy) For my entree I went with the Pineapple Curry Duck and added Thai chilies for the extra spice. The crab Rangoon came out out and I was excited but disappointed ... they didn't have any flavor that's popped.. they weren't nasty but compared to other Thai spots they don't stand a chance. The wings were better and met expectations with the spice level. The dipping sauce in the side was a plus. Wings were good but still no wow factor. My entree was delivered and I'm glad the duck wasn't drowned in the curry ....the spice level was perfect ... but once again the the let down was with the seasoning of the duck ... it was cook perfectly but didn't wow me . Wasn't nasty just didn't hit the pallet like I was expecting. I'll still try another dish at a later date. But shout out to our waiters Natalie she was on point and great service always makes up for the minor let downs. Til next time fo read more

This is a fun place to dine downtown Columbia. The food is always good and we have had great service. You can eat outside or inside which is a nice option. Their cocktails are carefully crafted. Definitely give this place a try if you haven't already. We will be coming back. Till next time.... read more

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Loved loved Kao Thai! Haven't ate there in a while but the food tasted just as good as I remembered. Will definitely return when in the area again! Our server was great and the new location is awesome! read more

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Found this restaurant while walking around Main Street. It has very nice contemporary decor with dark colored modern stylish furniture and non thematic decor. Well spaced comfortable seating. Menu is a bit limited and doesn't have several Thai dishes I like - more Americanized Thai food without the street food type favorites. We had pad kew, fried shrimps, spring rolls, and pork gyozas. All the fried items just a bit greasy but tasted good with nice presentation and prompt service. They are out of just about half the beers listed however. The dining room is not big but has a full size bar on one side and upholstered banquette seating as well as regular 2 and 4 tops. A bit pricy at about $30/pp for our three apps and one noodle dish and a beer. Seems to be a popular place - one of the reasons we picked it is on a Monday night it's probably the busiest restaurant in town while many others were empty. read more

Good place to eat with a trendy atmosphere and location. If you like Thai and the downtown areas this place is for you. If food was great. The wife and I both got the KFC chicken. Plenty of food could have shared. Cocktails were good too. read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - KFC Kao Fried Chicken - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

Lunch on a Wednesday 2/20/25 @ 1pm. The Ambiance was AWESOME. I got the Classic Thai Fried Rice w/Chicken (Amazing). I swear the picture doesn't do it justice. Ate up the Veggie Spring Rolls before I could take a picture (Delish). Everything taste fresh & cooked to perfection. I live 25mins away from the restaurant. However I will be visiting at least 3times a mth. If you in the area TRY THIS ESTABLISHMENT. You'll thank me in read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Classic Thai Fried Rice w/Chicken - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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I was touring the city and some locals recommended the place. I ate at the bar and the bartender was pretty attentive and the food came out quickly. The Brussel sprouts were delicious and probably my favourite. I ate a few more small plates and they were all delicious. I would definitely come back! read more

My daughters and I found this little gem while touring during USC orientation. Food was amazing and the service exceptional. Don't skip out on the Brussels sprouts appetizer!!! Shout out to Mac, the host, that went above and beyond for us. My oldest daughter left her Invisalign in a napkin and we didn't realize it until we reached the hotel. We called the restaurant and found that the table had already been cleaned and no Invisalign found. When I told Mac that it was wrapped in a napkin, he told me that he would look for it. He called back within a minute to let me know that he had found it! How many people do you know in the food service industry that would have put in the effort of looking through the garbage?!!! Thankful for you, Mac! We will definitely be back. read more

Pad Thai is super tasty. Drunken noodles is heavy on the veggies. Service and ambiance is great. Location is tough to beat.

Atmosphere was beautiful and the food was really good. Loved the fact they had several gluten free options and the service was quick and attentive. read more

A friend recommended this place for dinner one evening. I have already been back a second time. Everything about this spot is perfect. Nice ambiance, really great menu, and the food is just addicting. Riley was our server the first time - and he really just was the icing on the cake. Very familiar with the menu, made great recommendations and service all around in both trips was superb. I really love how many "small plate" options they have, as well as lengthy list of entrees. Prices are very reasonable as well. Everything was so good, but the Roti and Curry will keep me coming back - so simple but SO good. This is a great choice for a date night or just happy hour with friends. So happy to have discovered it! read more

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Upon entering, I was greeted. I opted for takeout. I ordered the chicken wings and the KFC chicken. The sauce for the chicken wings was delicious. The KFC had a good heat. The restaurant was busy and lively. The bar was also packed. I would not go back, but the patrons I witnessed seemed to be enjoying themselves. read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Crispy Chicken Wings - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

What a great lunch! Steamed Shrimp Shumai dumplings that melt in your mouth, classic Tom Yum soup, and wonderful Mango Sticky Rice to top it off. Love this place. Great service too! read more

Kao Thai Cuisine - Tom Yum Shrimp Soup - Thai Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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I arrived here pretty early and was able to sit outside. The server was really friendly. I opted for the Tom Kha and the Pad Krapow. Both were excellent and tasted authentic. There is not designated parking lot, so finding close enough street parking is a challenge. If I'm ever back in Columbia, I'd definitely want to come back here. read more

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