Baan Thai is one of only a handful of restaurants in Sheffield specialising in authentic Thai cuisine. Known for serving consistently good food, Baan Thai is an independent restaurant offering great value for money.

The Venue
An imposing building, situated at the foot of London Road and Ecclesall Road, Baan Thai is in an ideal location. It is within easy reach of both the town centre and the popular Ecclesall Road shopping area where there is a great choice of bars and pubs for pre-dinner drinks. Once inside this grand building you will find high ceilings and tall columns that make a dramatic backdrop to your dining experience. The elaborate Thai decor includes imposing statues, tropical plants and opulent detail. This creates a relaxed ambience without the contrived feeling of a themed restaurant. At Baan Thai it is even easy to forget you are in the Steel City.

The Atmosphere
Although the surroundings are lavish, the atmosphere is certainly not pretentious. The traditional Thai welcome and great hospitality of the staff creates an informal mood, drawing a mixed crowd of diners. Popular with groups and larger parties, it is often packed at the weekend so advance booking is recommended. During the week, lunchtimes attract the business crowd who create a lively, yet relaxed vibe. For a quieter dining experience head down on a week night, or reserve a table on the secluded mezzanine floor. Although not a typical family restaurant, children are welcome and a high chair can be provided.

The charming Thai waiters wear beautiful custom dress and they’re polite and attentive. Service can be a little slow at times although this doesn’t detract from the enjoyment of the meal.

The Food
Baan Thai offers a wide-range of authentic Thai food, from classic chicken curry dishes to mouth-watering sea food, and an extensive vegetarian choice to match. The menu is well-presented, with good descriptions of the ingredients in each dish, including additional information on the spice level. If you find yourself struggling to make a decision, there is always the option of picking a set menu which allows you to sample a variety of dishes at a reasonable price. Or if you’d like to really explore the wide choice that Baan Thai has to offer, try the fantastic lunchtime buffet.

Unlike the generic dishes found in some restaurant chains, a meal at Baan Thai fills the senses and each individual flavour skips off the taste buds. Food arrives in traditional porcelain bowls and the food is packed with fresh ingredients and rich flavours, without being overpowering. Served with a classic sweet chilli sauce, you will find the vegetable tempura starter (pak tord, £4.75) an absolute pleasure as you bite into the light, delicate batter and crunch through to the tasty vegetables. Another recommended dish is the delicious green Thai curry, which is available with a choice of chicken, seafood, vegetables or tofu. The sweet creamy coconut sauce is bursting with characteristic Thai flavours: tangy lemongrass, warming galangal, ginger, aromatic coriander, refreshing lime and fragrant Thai basil. Try it with the traditional Thai sticky rice (£2.50) - cooked perfectly, it has a glutinous texture with a satisfying bite to it. In keeping with the genuine Thai experience, you will find the dessert menu to be a little more restrictive. It offers only a small selection of rice and fruit-based desserts, (all of which are pleasant enough but certainly not the main attraction at Baan Thai).

The Drink
Baan Thai offers up a decent wine list and the staff are happy to advise on the best choice to complement your meal. Bottles of house wine start at £12.50. There is also a selection of Asian beers – Singha and Chang – in bottles, and a comprehensive line up of spirits and mixers are available.

The Last Word
Baan Thai, whilst not being a budget option, is fantastic in terms of quality and value for money. It has a great atmosphere, helpful staff and an extensive menu. A great place to go with friends, it is definitely worth a visit.

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