Grapevine’s Best Of 2017: Best Thai Restaurant

Ban Thai
Laugavegur 130
Ban Thai is one of those rare gems in Iceland that consistently deliver tongue-tickling, satisfying Thai fare despite the challenges of being on a distant island, nowhere close to Thailand. Don’t be fooled by their extensive menu, these guys mean business. They have something for everyone—creamy coconut curries from the South or fiery “jungle” dishes from the North. Our favourites are the laab (minced meat salad with generous piles of fresh herbs) and the green curry with strips of crunchy bamboo shoots. As a regular on our panel quipped: “Anything good enough for Russell Crowe is good enough for me.”

Runners Up

Mai Thai Bistro
Laugavegur 118
If you haven’t eaten at this charming little supermarket sit-down, we suggest you rectify that. Reykjavík may not always deliver on popular world cuisine, but Thai food is a largely satisfying affair. Skip the popular pad Thai and ask for the simple stir fried veggies, or any of the curries—they’ll even do a brown rice fried rice for those who hanker for extra fibre.

Yummi Yummi
Hverfisgata 123
The square by Hlemmur promises to be a food destination, and the Little Thailand vibe in the triangle is completed by this newly renovated takeaway. Besides the surly-sweet service, it is the kapoo moo sab (stir-fried ground pork with chillies and fresh basil, with steamed rice, topped with a fried egg) that keeps us going back for more.

Previous Winners

2016: Ban Thai
2015: Ban Thai
2014: Ban Thai
2013: Yummi Yummi
2012: Ban Thai