Sawatdee is a situational pick for Thai food in Minneapolis. I'll explain what I mean, but first the food. I got Chicken Penang Curry and Thai Tea. Starting off strong, the drink was great. Digging into the curry though, I had a some questions. The base itself was solidly flavorful, and the chicken--while a little dry--did the job. Never in my years of Penang Curry-fandom, however, have I found a restaurant with such a passion for green beans. While it's not unusual to have a few beans alongside bell peppers and maybe carrots, this curry had a comedic amount. A venerable mountain of green beans. There was still a proper portion of everything else, so it wasn't really an issue, but that is how this place will stick in my memory. Now, Thai food is among--if not THE--standout cuisine in the Twin Cities. Transparently, there are a lot of places I'd recommend first if you're going out of your way for it (Nong's, Coconut Thai, Bangkok Thai Deli, Hot Wingz). But if you're in the area for work, a show at the Guthrie, or a game at US Bank, Sawatdee should scratch the itch. Especially if you like green beans. read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Chicken Penang Curry - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Take out order - Papaya salad (level 3 spice). Papaya salad was wrapped up twice in plastic - a dream because it didn't spill! The papaya salad is very citrusy. Level 3 spice was not spicy and would definitely bump it up. The portion size was just enough! read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

A wonderful spot to escape the cold after visiting the stone arch bridge and the Mississippi River. The jasmine tea had great flavor and was the perfect temperature. I ordered the red curry with tofu and the 2/5 spice level was great. I liked the fried tofu and array of veggies in the dish. The restaurant was spacious and well laid out. I didn't catch the waitstaff's name, but we bantered about basketball for a few minutes and it made my night! He checked on us throughout the meal and was attentive and kind. The food was delicious and just what I wanted. read more

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This restaurant had very nice seating and a Thai inspired theme. The food came quick and very tasty, we had the famous sue's egg rolls, pad see ew, and the lemongrass pasta. The prices were a bit steep, and an automatic gratuity of 18% was already charged to our party of 3. Overall, it was a good experience, and definitely good for a nice evening out or a celebration. Parking is metered, but it's also a great walking destination! read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Sue's Egg Rolls - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Pad Thai and wontons are always fab. I prefer take out but they've got a quiet and chill dine in experience. Service is interesting, they have a robot who helps! I suspect to mitigate costs of operating a restaurant downtown. There are still real servers who are great and know the menu really well. Always quick service in my experience and a great, simple option if you're in an indecisive mood. read more

Unfortunately, my group was pretty disappointed with our experience here. We came and sat ourselves, and waited a bit for our server to come around. Before greeting us or offering waters, we waited for her to clean up one of the only other tables in the restaurant, which is fine but a bit odd for us to wait since the table was directly behind us. As we were placing our order, our server was very monotonous and frankly a bit rude. One of our group members has a gluten allergy, and asked if one of the menu items comes prepared with gluten. Our server did not answer this question and continued to place her order and move on. As we were paying, my card kept getting rejected and I shared that I have cash and can make it easier. Our server instead stated multiple times that she'll be right back, without ever actually leaving. She just kept trying my card again and again, disregarding my offer to pay in cash instead. Everything she had said to our group was just very short and almost snappy, which doesn't make a very nice dining experience. The food itself tasted decent, but made me feel quite sick when I got home. Luckily, none of my other group members had this issue, so I cannot say if it was the fault of the restaurant or if I was having a digestive issue. Most of us got noodles of some sort, with either tofu or chicken. One group member ordered the Erewan steak salad, and it came with very purple/gray looking meat. She said it tasted fine and felt fine afterwards, thankfully. Overall, it wasn't a very good experience and I don't think any of our group will be back. read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Pad Thai - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

I was expecting a horror show from the reviews but I was wrong! It seems the dine in experience is different than the takeout which seems to be where a lot of complaints are for this place are. Sawatdee is reported to be the first Minneapolis Thai restaurant ever that opened back in the 80s and since it was so close to home I'd thought I'd give it a shot. First off it's a Saturday and I was the only 1 there at noon and perhaps one other group opted for a sit-down my entire time there. The high ceilings, clean restrooms, and quiet atmosphere is notable and chill to say the least. Had to ask if the curry had shrimp which unfortunately they all do, so decided to get Pad Thai with 4 (mild to hot) spiciness, Sweet and Sour soup, and Sue's egg rolls. The appetizers came out first while the Pad Thai took about 15 minutes. A little slower than would you'd get at other places but given that I was the only one there, I can at least expect it to be out fresh. Sue's Egg Rolls: 7.5/10 Decent although it wasn't as crispy as I'd like it, The sweet sauce is good but just passes as acceptable for me. Sweet and Sour Soup: 7/10 Also decent although the chicken was overcooked and you could probably skip it, it makes for an appetizer for a work lunch but nothing special about it. Pad Thai: 7.5/10 The unorthodox choice of using lemon as well as forgoing some vegetable staples made me realize that maybe this is supposed to cater to someone who's just trying Thai for the first time. It's not bad, but I guess since I've tried so many Asian restaurants in the Twin Cities this seems bland by comparison . Now I do think the price is quite high. Given that it's the Mill District, it is almost 33% higher than other places that I've tried within Minneapolis and I'll let you decide if that's worth it. That being said it wasn't bad. I'm not going to pick this as my first option as a lot of options that involve shrimp isn't for me (I'm allergic), but if you're at a Vikings game this is one of the only places to get decent asian food in the area within walking distance. I also think the ambience isn't bad and the restrooms are clean which bumped this review up. Overall, it serves a niche but honestly I've had better elsewhere. read more

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Best I could describe our experience is MEH. Great place to skip unless you're just craving Thai. Ambience was fine. Service and food were lackluster. read more

Ahhh, Sawatdee my mistress... absolutely love this place! Most consistent quality, always get the same flavors and product! Spring rolls & Thai rice done perfectly and arrived warm. Will need to up one next time on the rice. If you haven't yet you need to get some! read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Spring rolls & Thai rice done perfectly - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

After the gym I stopped by my go to Thai restaurant for dinner. Anytime I have a craving I make my way downtown for my takeout order at Sawatdee. Parking is crazy due to construction so venture over at your own risk. So, tonight's order was broccoli and oyster sauce stir fry with beef at a 4 spice level, holy basil supreme stir fry with beef at a 3 spice level, 2 orders of Sue's eggrolls... because of course everyone needs their own, cream cheese wontons, extra rice and a side of steamed veggies.... you know, since I just came from the gym and all, lol. Everything was delicious as always. I think it's a bit pricey but everything costs more nowadays. If you like Thai food you should try it. They have such a variety of items everyone will find something to satisfy their appetite. I highly recommend. read more

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A great place to pregame before any event at the US Bank Stadium, with delicious food and affordable drinks. Reservations for our party of 9 was super easy using the OpenTable app. Our favorites included: Shrimp Pad Thai Supenn's Fresh Spring Rolls My Thai cocktail Service was excellent. The restaurant looked a bit older, but had lots of character and was adorned with many Thailand themed decorations. Finding cheap parking was difficult due to the event at US Bank stadium, but many street and ramp options were nearby. read more

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I grabbed some chicken pad Thai from the Sawatdee food truck at my workplace. (I confirmed it's affiliated with this location). The service was excellent but the food was very mediocre. The portion was overpriced at $12. The flavor was on point, but the minimal chicken in the dish was bone dry. There was way too much crushed peanut and not enough vegetables. The food came out as soon as I paid for it and both workers were very pleasant! read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Chicken Pad Thai - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

We stopped here before A Christmas Carol at the Guthrie. Everyone had a different version of Pad Thai and they were all very good. I forgot to photograph the food as I was watching the robot. He delivers food and then zips back to the kitchen for more. Our human server acted rushed even though it wasn't busy at all. We were celebrating an anniversary but they apparently don't do anything for anniversaries. read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

I had a chance to check out Sawatdee to celebrate a friend's birthday, and our host did a solid job serving our party of 10+. I tried Sue's Egg Rolls, the fried chicken wings, and the tropical fried rice. I enjoyed that I could choose my spice level here, which really lets you tailor the dishes to your taste. The food was good, though not something that would necessarily bring me back. The space itself is nice and roomy, making it a good choice for larger gatherings, although nothing about the decor particularly stood out. Parking can be a challenge in this area since it's mostly street parking, so plan accordingly if you're stopping by. read more

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We ordered chicken pad Thai. And Thai style car fish. Portions were generous. The vibe was nice and Spacious n modern Thai decor ,,, service was adequate. Might not have been her day. Never had a smile on her face. Sorry for what's she's going through read more

Stumbled upon after the game, off the place wasn't packed. Pros: ambiance, tasteful Thai decor. Food: spring roll, made fresh. Chix pad Thai, I've had many and this was on point. Spice level is rarely right, their 3 was just right. Great service. Cons: Viking fans looked sad, odd since the won 48-10 today. Go figure. Highly recommend, it's legit Thai and I'm from an area heavily populated by Asians. read more

Super sweet workers/ owners hand very cozy ambience always delicious every time I get takeout! one of my go to spots!

We stopped in around mid afternoon and Makayla made our experience here much more amazing. There wasn't a lot of people seated to dine in , but had a ton of takeout orders. I ordered the Tokyo rose cocktail and my husband opted for the same , we both enjoyed how tasteful it was! I liked the fisherman's delight but it wasn't as spicy as I'd hope. Makayla went above and beyond to bring us extra chili and jalapeños. 10/10 from the cleanliness of the restaurant to the efficiency of the customer service to the taste of the food. Immaculate! read more

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Excellent Thai food!!! Sawatdee is kind of a Thai landmark in town, everyone knows it. The food is delicious and just what you're looking for to get that authentic Thai flavor. read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Restaurant awards wall - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

I was craving some curry as one does and after my Trader Joe's shopping and found this place. When we walked in we got placed in a broken booth and couldn't sit in the booth we wanted because they had already closed down that section. I got the red curry (the spice level is white people spice level) and while the flavoring was good the vegetables were kind of chunky. My friends got the Pad Thai and they said it had very little egg and not many vegetables. The service was very decent until the end when we waited for our check for a while. Not the best thai food in Minneapolis :/ if anyone has suggestions let me know. read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Red Curry - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Dissapointed. Flavorless. Ms sues egg rolls just have plain ground beef in them, tastes like they just cooked the ground beef and rolled it up. Zero seasonings. Everything we ordered tasted bland. No seasonings were used in these dishes. I guess I can only blame myself, I didn't read the reviews before ordering. Those would have told me everything I needed to know. read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Chicken pad thai, shrimp fried rice, ms sue egg rolls & cream cheese wontons - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Sawatdee on Washington. Over the past 30 years, I've been to the old and new STP locations, the dear departed 4th St location in the Warehouse District, and seen the buildings build up around this Washington location. Their Thai Style Catfish in red curry was as good as it was thirty years ago. Their Coconut Shrimp though . . . wow, even better than I remember, especially putting tons of chili pepper oil in the sweet sauce. Stellar. And a delicious Iced Thai Tea read more

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We had a quick lunch at Sawatdee Thai due to it's close proximity to the Renaissance hotel on the 3rd avenue. I ordered Pad-See-Ew, my go -to dish for Thai foods. The sauce was good, however the noodles themselves were not cooked well and the noodles were smaller than what typically used for Pad-See-Ew. They use broccoli in stead of Gai lan (Chinese broccoli). My friend ordered chicken pad thai and she thought it was ok. The service was average (normal 3-time checks for order/foods/and checks). The restaurant is hugh and very quiet for weekday lunch. read more

I got the worse Toam Yum soup I've ever had. Bland and tasteless. this place used to be my favorite for this soup. Now I'll never eat there again. read more

The lunch buffet and Pad Thai was good. My experience with the food and service was positive.

Whenever I try a new Thai restaurant, I go to the basic dishes at first. Ordered chicken pad thai, curry fried rice, Sue's egg rolls and fried calamari. Got a 4 (out of 5) on the spicy scale on the pad thai and a 3 for the curry fried rice. Not too hot but good spice on the two entrees. Chicken pad thai was tasty. Noodles were good, not pasty. The spice added to its flavor. Good pieces of chicken though a tad dry. Curry fried rice was a good surprise. I liked the curry taste of the fried rice and the spiciness added to it. Just maybe a little more salt to season would have made it better. Sue's egg rolls had good filling and a nice crust. Sweet and sour dipping was a little thin. Fried calamari was your typical frozen variety. But since I was hungry for calamari, it was ok. Food was pretty good. I will go again and try other curry dishes. read more

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This was my second visit and the food was excellent again! Hot, fresh, and promptly prepared. I appreciate the ease of mobile ordering, the specifications readily available to adjust spice level and add extras. I will gladly order again when I want an excellent meal. Thanks so much for the care and quality. read more

Ordered the massaman curry with vegetables to go. Got home and there were no vegetables so I called the restaurant. Person said that if I wanted vegetables I had to order extra vegetables and pay $2 extra because vegetables were very expensive. This was never stated on the menu. Menu stated the price was $14 but I was charged $16. Sixteen dollars for curry with chunks of potato seems a bit high. read more

I get takeout for here every once in awhile. I get the chicken pad Thai and the cream cheese wontons. Food is really good. However, it's not great for leftovers in my opinion. The service is always pretty good as well. Parking is all metered street parking or parking in a nearby ramp. It can be sometimes tricky to find street parking. read more

Sawatdee was the first place I ever remember having Thai food. It was an introduction into a world of new flavors and spices. I hadn't been in years so stopped in last summer. I was quickly greeted seated and given water. The place has an older feel and decor could be refreshed and maybe some sprucing up. There was a great deal which was awesome the table shared one of the appetizer samplers it was great to try out a few different things and they all tasted really good read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Dining room - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Service is awesome, and the food is delicious! The atmosphere is inviting. I would recommend the red curry!

My, oh my...I can't rave enough about the food here! I ordered the Som Tum green papaya salad and ginger chicken stir fry. Samuel was my waiter and he did a great job at juggling three tables. It was about an hour before closing and the restaurant had pretty much cleared but we were all seated fairly close to each other near the back of the room. I was seated promptly and service was quick considering one of the tables was a party of 6 and another was 2 parents and a toddler. It took some time to choose from the menu because I wanted it all. The aroma filled the room from the kitchen and it ignited my hunger. The papaya salad had ample peanuts and just the right consistency. The sauce was amazing! The cook put the perfect proportion of ingredients. It's distinct fish sauce, lime juice and spices coupled with the hint of sweet made this the best papaya salad I've had to date. The ginger chicken stir fry held its own weight. With fresh green, red and orange peppers, celery, strips of ginger, mushrooms and onion, there was no food wasted! If I lived here, this would be my go-to for Thai food! read more

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Sawatdee used to be sort of underwhelming, but now is really great I highly recommend. They have robot that delivers the food to the table. read more

Can't even call it bad service. No service at all. We were seated and ignored for 30 minutes. Left and told the hostess on the way out we were never spoke to and she just said... "yea". Strange place. read more

We came here for the lunch buffet. It was pretty small with only 1 hot table but the items were tasty. They had chicken wings, cream cheese puffs, pad thai, red curry chicken white rice, veggies stir fry and other various items. The price was decent and was able to find street parking fairly easily. I forgot to take photos because I was lost in conversation. read more

A convenient location in downtown Minneapolis is this delicious Thai place. The service is friendly, though a bit slow. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable. The pineapple red curry was outstanding! I would definitely go back! read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Thai it. You'll like it! - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Disappointed by the general lack of flavor. Appetizer platter - Cream cheese wontons were fine - Fried spring roll seemed like an egg roll with noodles - Sarong was not what at all what I expected. What we got was basically a fried ball of noodles, not as described on the menu Stir-Fried Silver-Thread Noodles with tofu Super bland and definitely needs more sauce, the onions tasted off (maybe frozen?), tofu was standard fried tofu Pad See Yew with pork Also bland and needs more sauce, doesn't really taste like any pad see ew I've had. The flavor was pretty similar to the other noodle dish so I imagine it's just the same sauce on both read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Pad See Yew, Stir - fried Silver - Thread Noodles - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

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Not good at all. The Penang curry was the most bizarre I have ever had, it was just a plate of string beans drizzled with some curry. The supenns Thai style pasta also had no flavor, it was a mushy mess. The service was also not good - the waitress did not check in on us at all after the food was served and did not refill our drinks. We should have known better than to eat here when we did not see a single Thai person working at the restaurant. I've been to a lot of Thai restaurants, and this is hands down the worst food. read more

Sawatdee Thai Restaurant - Minneapolis - Penang curry - Thai Near Me - Minneapolis, Minnesota

Great food and comfortable restaurant with good service. FOOD: I got the vegetable stir fry with chicken. I intended to get the brown rice but forgot to order that and channeled my inner Minnesotan and didn't speak up to get a second order of rice. Good food with good flavor. ATMOSPHERE: Comfy atmosphere. Noticed they had a cool private area that can be used for events. And good lighting. PARKING: I parked on the street two blocks away. Not sure if there's more convenient parking but that wasn't bad. read more

This restaurant has sadly gone downhill over the years. Used to be a good place for Thai food, but the food quality and flavors are no longer present or authentic. Went with a friend before a show, and the restaurant was able to get food out to us quickly, but it was not good at all. Papaya salad tasted nothing like it should - tasted like peanut sauce with vinegar and no fish sauce. Stuffed chicken wings were completely bland. The vegetable curry was nothing but a pile of green beans. Will think fondly of meals I had there years ago but won't be returning. read more