The Midwest isn’t known for having the best Asian cuisine in the country. We’re here to tell you those critics missed a few gems in Rochester, MN. Whether you’re looking for great Pho, saucy noodle stir-fries, or spicy curry, these top 3 Thai restaurants will deliver. Literally.
1. Mango Thai
In our opinion, this is hands down the best Thai food in Minnesota, not just in the Rochester region. The food is fresh and flavorful with generous portions. The price range is more than your average Asian family restaurant but still affordable. We think that the stellar food and atmosphere are worth the few extra dollars.
Best Sauces in Rochester
This place is known for its delicious, flavorful sauces. Their peanut sauce is a real standout, and customers quickly become addicted to it. In fact, due to popular demand, you can actually ask to buy just the sauce to take home. It’s that good.
Best dishes to experience that peanut sauce:
- Rama spinach peanut curry
- Fried tofu w/ peanut sauce
Atmosphere and Service
The staff here are attentive but also good at leaving you to enjoy your food and conversation. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with warm dimmed lighting giving you privacy from neighboring tables. It’s a beautiful space with a modern flair and rustic chic brick wall. You’ll feel like royalty when you order a hot Jasmine Tea served in a beautiful cast iron teapot on a wooden board, with an orchid blossom just for you. Unfortunately, right now they are only delivering, but once they reopen you have got to go in!
Vegetarian Options
This restaurant has some great vegetarian options and the staff and chef are very kind and talented at turning those dishes vegan if requested. Substitutions do not mean having to compromise flavor here. Make sure to ask about fish sauce or shrimp paste if you are a strict vegetarian, as there are some pre-made sauces that already include these.
Our favorite picks:
- Rama spinach peanut curry
- Panang curry
- Pad see iew
- Pad kee mow
2. Pho Chau
This family restaurant is actually Vietnamese but specializes in a mix of Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese food. The prices are great and so is the service. You will quickly feel like family in this very low-key authentic restaurant. The staff is kind and the atmosphere simple and relaxed. These things combined with some very tasty Asian food make this a local favorite. Pho Chau really smashes it with the noodle dishes.
Our favorite picks:
- Pho
- Pad thai
- Chow fun
3. Hog Thai
A newer feature in the Rochester area, this small family restaurant is quickly growing quite an impressive reputation. Authentic and delicious food, generous portions, and friendly staff are going to make this place big in the Rochester food scene. Currently only open for delivery, takeout, and curbside pickup.
Our favorite picks:
- Spring rolls
- Pad thai
- Thai basil chicken
- Pan fried noodles
You’ll be surprised and delighted with the quality of Rochester’s Thai food. After enjoying some delicious Asian fare, make sure to check in at Rochester Toyota for all your automotive needs.
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