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Takeout from Thai Cafe was tasty! I'm fortunate to get frequent DoorDash credits from my work and often end up getting Thai food specifically, with my credits on the way home from work. My tried and true (call me basic) is usually massaman curry and I have to say, Thai Cafe does this dish well. The curry is thick and creamy with nice peanut flavor and a substantial amount of protein, for me, tofu. While the flavor was great (I opted for hot but not Thai hot), I did notice that the potato was a fairly minimal in the dish. I placed my order right when leaving work, and about 20 minutes later when I arrived, my order was ready. The restaurant is located close to the corner of Main St and Franklin St so Preston metro rail station is just a block away as well as several bus stops. There are a few street parking spots out front, however take note that the Main St construction project to convert the car road into a pedestrian road is underway so there are multiple areas blocked off. Finally, did notice the prices are a little steep. I realize that the restaurant business can be a challenge to sustain, especially during the summer and while there is nearby construction, however $17 for a regular portion of curry seems a little high to me. Luckily I did have a credit to utilize.
I've been here twice and I think this is an average Thai spot for Houston. It is located in Houston downtown, so has become our go to for dinner prior to shows in the area. We've luckily been able to find street parking each time (free after 6PM) We've had the panang and pad kee mao. Both are good, but portion sizes seem small. I'm usually left with some leftovers at most Thai places and here I can finish my dish. We also recently tried the cheese roll appetizer. They were delicious but so pricey ($8 for 5 pieces). They may need more waiters. We were here on a Saturday evening and it looked like one waiter was taking care of all of the tables! We had to wait a while to receive our check. The restrooms are also in the back (you need to grab a key to open the restroom).
Thai cafe has been on my radar. A colleague told me great things about this place, so I am glad we stopped in. I called over to see about parking, once I found out that only street parking was available I opted to walk. Only four mins from my place! How convenient! When we walked in, we were greeted by Jay! What are the odds of this!? I've known Jay from this time at Thai garden and another Thai restaurant in Sugarland. I was extremely happy to see Jay as he is a top notch professional and just overall great person. What are the odds of this? We definitely started on the right foot! Back to the food. Food: the food here is simply amazing! We started off with green tea and Thai tea. They were both simply amazing and full of flavor! The fried calamari was the best I've ever had. So crunchy and full of flavor! I highly recommend trying that as an appetizer. The Tom yum soup was amazing! Full of flavor with the right amount of spice. The pad Thai is amazing here. I went with beef chicken and pork and I am sure glad I tried it. Made to absolute perfection. Every bite was full of flavor and delicious! Great pad Thai! I definitely get that again! My girls curry salmon was simply amazing. This is coming from someone who doesn't even like salmon. I enjoyed it and would order it! They made this dish to perfection. This is one of their signature dishes. I suggest trying it ! I cannot wait to try more things off the menu! Jay is doing absolute great job here! I look forward to many more meals here. If you live in the downtown area i highly recommend you try this place out asap! Also, we really enjoyed the decor! Some of the best Thai food in houston with exceptional customer service! I'll be back soon! Thank you Jay and Lalita!
Solid Thai food that holds up even with a delivery. We got red curry with chicken and the beef pad see ew, both at medium spice. They had just enough spice to please me (and I am a solid white girl medium spice kinda gal) and my boy who can handle pretty much any level of heat you throw at him.
Great way to kick of the new year with a spot I was introduced to & glad finally stopped in. The cafe is in a historic building, the staff greets you as you arrive. The interior is beautiful upscale feeling with hard wood floors. Went during lunch time on a Monday and it wasn't too busy. Being my first time the waiter took time to explain the menu. My friend & I looked over the menu but already know what we wanted. I got the chicken of Thai & my friend got the Thai fried rice. You can specify the intensity of spiciness from mild to Thai hot. The side salad, egg roll and soup of the day were brought within 5 minutes after ordering. The vegetable soup was flavorful and warm, egg roll had good taste and crunch to it. The salad dressing needed a bit more seasoning was my only reason for the 4/5 for this part. The chicken pad Thai tasted fresh and was hot. I asked for mild, but will be getting medium or hot on our next visit. I didn't try the chicken Thai fried rice, but my friend mentioned it did need some more soy sauce to add flavoring. Overall the portions were good that we both took to-go boxes. Looking forward to trying additional options and visiting again. Spot is good for groups or even studying. The music isn't blaring and place is clean and very welcoming.
We visited this restaurant because it was close to the hotel. When we arrived it was very chill. They were playing classic Christmas songs and that was lovely. There was only one person working the front of the restaurant, which I was a little worried about being that it was a Saturday evening. The venue quickly started to fill up as we were waiting for our drinks. When a couple arrived with their children and requested a large table set up, we anticipated a big party arriving so we quickly ordered our food. Shortly after ordering, the rest of their party arrived which included another couple and their children. The younger child started playing a video game at the highest volume that sounded like a repetitive slot machine chiming over and over. It was so loud it drowned out the restaurant chatter and the Christmas music. Over and over again, this child sat next to their oblivious parents who cared not about the experience they were creating for the rest of the guests. Not sure what kind of lunatic allows their child to make that kind of noise in a restaurant but it was extremely inconsiderate. It grew to be so unnerving that I kindly asked the server if he could as them to turn the volume down. He replied, "I just take orders" and shrugged. Needless to say, we were just obnoxiously serenaded for the rest of our dining experience by the child whose parents lack awareness in shared spaces. The food was ok. I enjoyed the flavor of the pad Thai but I was a little disappointed by the shrimp tempura as it actually resembled a heavily breaded shrimp toast with a sliver of shrimp inside. The green Thai tea was my favorite. I hope to try this place again, without the arcade sounds blasting in my ear.
This is my new "hidden gem" recommendation for Thai food. I came here with a friend who was visiting last week, and we stumbled upon their $10 lunch special, which includes an entree, soup, egg roll, and salad. I went with a mild chicken pad Thai (the rest is pre-set). Not only was the food high-quality, it was prepared beautifully and tasted great! I would have been happy to pay $15 for the meal before tip. The interior of the place was so beautiful as well, and we had no trouble parking in the spots out front. However, there aren't a ton of them (5-10?) so I'm not sure how troublesome it would be on a weekend or weeknight. Can't wait to return! read more
3 years ago
Came here for lunch and it was so yummy! My waiter was really nice and made sure we always had refills. Love the space and can't wait to come again read more
Came here cause it was walking distance to the courts cause I had jury duty so needed a place to break for lunch. Walked in around 1pm and none of the tables were cleared!! Dirty dishes were on every single empty table except for 1.. so guess that's where I'm sitting. No one wants to look at dirty dishes stacked on tables beside them when they eat! Ack! It just makes the restaurant look dirty.. plus you can't seat anyone new that comes in without clearing them first. That's a pretty big no for me.. I understand there was a lunch rush but it wasn't busy when I walked in.. it was maybe 40-50% full so they had time to clear stuff. Plus side was that they seated me after a few minutes waiting by the door.. I told them I was in a hurry to get back so I ordered right away. The food came out fast and so did the check! I think it took me all but 30 mins to sit, order, eat, pay and leave! That's called efficient. I ordered the Phad See Eww with Tofu (aka Phad C Ew on their menu) Lunch Special! The lunch special cake with a salad, a soup and a egg roll! Not too shabby. The salad was ok with a really creamy dressing.. the soup was a bit on the fishy side though not bad.. and the egg roll was hot/crispy and delicious with the sweet and sour sauce on top! Pretty good perk for being complimentary! The Phad see eww cake before I finished the appetizers, which was ok by me! Though the broccoli was a bit bitter.. the tofu was crispy and the noodles were cooked well in perfect strands (not mushy) BUT it was missing flavor! I thought it lacked seasoning, that smokey flavor in the noodles and that black pepper on top! I also thought portions were a bit on the smaller side.. though not complaining too much about that cause it was filling. Overall, I've had better Thai so I wasn't sure about the 5 star rating here. It was just ok for me and I'd choose other options before coming here again! read more
This place was really delicious! I was so impressed. I'm a picky Thai food eater because I've been spoiled on Thai food in LA. It's rare to find a really delicious place. I try to make it easy. I order Pad See Ew with chicken. My friend L took our order. Such a kind spirit! We were confused by the sign outside and took our food to go but you could actually eat there! Very clean restrooms and they are totally abiding by all Covid restrictions. I am definitely coming back here. We were all so pleased with our dishes! read more
3 years ago
This was my first time here, and the ambience is lovely. It definitely has an eclectic feel, which is often not the case at other Thai restaurants. Our waiter was so friendly and sweet as well. The food was solid - nothing to write home about, but will satiate the Thai craving for sure. read more
4 years ago
Imagine there is a Thai restaurant museum, complete with a table setting of fake food, like little cardboard gyoza. Now eat it. That's what the gyoza from this place tasted like. The Thai and basil-fried rice were ok, but we've had better. It definitely needed lots of soy sauce, but we were only provided a single, half full plastic cup for two orders. This was an UberEats order, so you have to know we're dependent upon the restaurant to provide sufficient and necessary accompaniments (i.e. Soy Sauce). read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
This is the freshest and most flavorful thai food downtown! We arrived right as lunch was wrapping up at 2:45 pm. We were welcomed in and were served a wonderful lunch menu. The service was kind and efficient. They have earned a customer for life! read more
2 years ago
I walked in and it was very elegant, with soft music. However, there was a strong smell of aroma of Curry... (Not a Curry- guy yet). Nevertheless, the place had its on VIBE and rhythm. I ordered the lunch special the Pad Kee Mao with shrimp. It came with salad and soup. I tried each they were different in their own right. The dressing and soup were not to my liking but they looked really good. The salad was served with this particular dressing that that was just not for me. Now when myPad Kee Mao . came out it was great, it came out with additional spices but they were not needed. read more
2 years ago
I ordered for pick up, the yellow curry with chicken, Tom kha Gai soup, pad thai with tofu and a side of edamame - everything was delicious. To go orders are well packaged. It's a small charming place, good for lunch or dinner. The only reason I did not give it a five star is because this week I needed to order in instead of dining in. I've done this before so it was confusing this time because lunch menu specials were no longer available and of course there was a price change between dining in and pick up orders. I will continue to eat at this establishment for their tastey dishes and of course, for the convenient location downtown. Parking available on street with parking meter. read more
3 years ago
Thai Cafe is a nice Thai restaurant that I found while staying in Houston for a few days. When you walk inside, you're instantly greeted by friendly staff and they continue that friendly service throughout your meal. The food itself is delicious, I ordered the shrimp pad thai and was not disappointed. I also ordered the thai tea and it was so good! Definitely recommend this to anyone living in or visiting Houston! read more
3 years ago
My husband and I dined here on a whelm, as we were in downtown Houston walking around. The smells sucked us in and to our delight the service and food were a 10 out of 10. read more
3 years ago
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4 years ago
Loved the spice! Ordered the Thai spice level and it hit the spot. This place seemed quiet and cozy which was nice. Always had driven by it and thought I would try, for I was not disappointed. Only complaint is the pricing seemed very high for Thai food. Would love to come back again though! read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
The best boat noodles soup!!!! Its authentic same as I had in Thailand. Great service and nice atmosphere restaurant . read more
5 years ago
My friend took me to Thai Cafe last week and we both were blown away by their Boat Noodles. The broth was filled with bold flavors and the portion was enough to share. We also had the chicken Larb dish. The food was amazing! Our server Melissa was super sweet as very attentive. The owner came to say hello and check to see how we enjoyed our meal. Love ghHighly recommend for authentic tasting Thai food. I can't wait to go back to try the Salmon Red Curry. read more
5 years ago
Walked in right when they opened. Service was very attentive. Had the edamame and egg rolls for appetizers. Ordered the Panang chicken curry with rice. You can choose the level of spice which I ordered 2. Just the right amount. Definitely will be back!!! read more
8 years ago
This place is so upscale and nice. The decorations are nice on the wall and so inviting. Like something out of Pinterest. The wait staff are nice and efficient. The lunch special is the perfect portion. I've had a handful of difference meals and each was yummy. I ordered mine mild and I've heard the spicy is quite hot from my coworkers who enjoy spicy food. If you order mild you can always add your own spice (they give the little pepper oil containers and such). We may come back as it's a nice refreshing change in downtown. read more
5 years ago
The pad Thai and red curry was so good, absolutely no problem finishing the delicious meal!! read more
4 years ago
Boy o boy!!! What an amazing experience and one of the best crab fried rice i have ever had!! The huge plate of rice i got, with added veggies, red and green peppers and green onions to it and slapped spicy sauce on top for a mouth watering experience! On the side I got a wonderful green tea and a stellar service experience! Will be back again!! read more
What a hidden gym! The amount of times I've walked by, Shame on me! This place is awesome. Describing the flavors don't even do it justice but I'll try! Thai tea is awesome! It wasn't overly milky or heavy it had a really great refreshing taste! Chicken gyoza was solid! Cooked nicely and the filling was great. It came out piping hot! Next the entrees, we got the pad Thai, of course it's a common favorite, it was delicious! Not overly sweet, it was just made really well! Very flavorsome. It doesn't have a kick, you can request it or add some chili! Def recommend the pad Thai! Next was the panang curry, solid dish as well. Talk about delicious! Curry was great, tons of flavor as well! Honestly can't wait to go back. Found my new Thai spot! Service is awesome too! Very attentive and very pleasant. read more
8 years ago
5 years ago
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6 years ago
Everything I've ever had here has been fantastic, and this place is wonderful when it comes to customizing orders. This is also one of the few places where I can order any random thing off the menu just because it looks interesting, even if I've never tried it before, and be extremely confident it will be good. read more
8 years ago
I really love this cozy restaurant. Staff was extremely friendly and helpful to us in choosing some options. We ordered the soft roll and it was delish (came with 2 different sauces) . We order the Veggie Lovers with fried rice for the entree, it was simple and clean (not saucy) which made the meal very tasty. For dessert we had the mango and sticky rice yuummmmyyy!!! Our experience was even more enjoyable when the owner/chef Oukey would check on us and have a lil chat over dessert (Oukey the young lady in the middle) This is our NEW THAI SPOT. read more
5 years ago
LOVE this place. Like wow. So cute and ducked off. You'd pass right by it if you weren't paying attention and that would be a mistake! I love coming here for their lunch special! It comes with a nice portion of chicken pad thai (and other choices to choose from), the soup of the day (their ginger soup was surprisingly delish!), a yummy egg roll, and side salad. I always get their deliciously creamy thai tea as my beverage and with that my total is like $15. Ever since discovering this place for lunch, I've been about 5x in January! Haha my guilty pleasure. Good quality food at a good price! read more
8 years ago
Being a fan of Thai Food, and a forever love of red curry. I decided to give Thai Cafe a try, since i have never had them before. Placing a Togo order was simple since they use Door Dash for delivery. Once receiving the food and opening up the container. I was shocked to see them mix the red curry sauce in the same container as the spring roll and salad! I have never been to a restaurant who put everything in the same container. ** If I could give this restaurant one recommendation. It will be to please separate the curry in its own container, with the rice, salad and egg roll being in its own container. Besides me having the dig the salad out of the curry and throwing away the spring roll, because of how saggy it was due to it stocking up all the curry. The curry wasn't bad. I'm sure my experience would've been better in person inside of the restaurant. read more
8 years ago
What a hidden gem. Frankly this is better than any Thai food we have had in Houston . . . yes including Thai Gourmet. The TC sweet and sour chicken with lychee on the chef specials is delicious. The Tom Kah soup is the best one I've had. Excellent Pad Thai. Make sure to try their Thai Green Tea, which occupies that sweet spot I never knew existed between Thai ice tea, matcha and jasmine tea. They bring it home with the classic Thai dishes we love done well, but many interesting unique takes in the chef specials. I would be surprised if we don't see some awards and news articles about this place soon. Parking downtown is a little tricky but usually there are some spaces right across the light rail tracks from the restaurant on Fannin or a side street. Due to I think newness and location, this place does not have any line or crowd. Very personal dining experience and nice folks running the place. We really like the chill dude waiter who chatted with us the first time we went! read more
8 years ago
I used to have a different go to Thai spot before this place come along - now it's only Thai cafe! They have unique dishes that are "fusion" dishes but they don't compromise on the traditional dishes, at all! You must try the steak bites for appetizers, super tender beef chunks (ask for some Thai chili peppers on the side to heat it up) One of my favorite dishes is the Healthy Fried Rice, gives you the flavor of a delicious fried rice without the guilt! read more
5 years ago
Probably the best Thai food we have ever had. The presentation was also excellent. We will definitely return. Enjoy your meal! read more
4 years ago
More info about Thai Cafe
917 Franklin St
Ste 101
Houston, TX 77002
Downtown
Directions
(713) 228-8424
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http://www.thaicafehoustontx.com
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Street parking meter don't charge after 6pm. It free parking after 6pm Monday through Saturday.
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Thai Cafe - thai - Updated June 2026
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