City Name
Temperature
Home » Recent posts » The 10 best Pad Thai spots in Vancouver, from my plate to yours!

The 10 best Pad Thai spots in Vancouver, from my plate to yours!

best-pad-thai-vancouver-banner
We extensively test and research all services we review. Here's why you can trust us.

I’ve always been on the hunt for the perfect plate of Pad Thai, and let me tell you, Vancouver does not disappoint. From cozy little food trucks to bustling restaurants, I’ve had my fair share of noodly, tangy, and peanutty goodness. 

Each spot has its own twist, from perfectly charred noodles to that irresistible tamarind kick. Some places feel like a quick trip to Thailand, while others have unique local flair. No matter what you’re craving, there’s a Pad Thai on this list that will hit the spot.

Every bite has been a delicious adventure, and I’m excited to share my favorites with you! Ready to dive in and discover your next favorite dish? Let’s get straight to the 10 best Pad Thai spots in Vancouver. You’re going to want to try them all!

1. Sawasdee Thai Restaurant

Media Credit:/sawasdeethaionmain/

Location 4250 Main St, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 604-876-4030
Prices $16 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Monday Closed
  • Tuesday – Friday 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Saturday – Sunday 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Website Sawasdee Thai Restaurant

Sawasdee is where I go when I’m craving traditional Pad Thai. Their tamarind sauce hits all the right notes, tangy, sweet, and just a little smoky. The noodles are always cooked to perfection, and the balance of flavors is spot on.

The cozy and welcoming vibe of the restaurant makes it even better. It’s the kind of place where you feel right at home as soon as you walk in. You’ll leave full and happy every single time.

If you want authentic Pad Thai, this is the spot. Trust me, it’s as close to Thailand as you’ll get without a passport. You’ll be dreaming about it long after your plate is empty.

Pro tip:

Order their Thai iced tea with your Pad Thai for the perfect sweet and creamy pairing. It complements the tangy tamarind sauce beautifully. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and satisfied.

2. Maenam

Media Credit:/maenamrestaurant/

Location 1938 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 604-730-5579
Prices $18 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Sunday – Tuesday 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday – Saturday 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Website Maenam

Maenam takes Pad Thai to the next level. This place is all about quality, and it shows in every bite. They use premium ingredients like fresh prawns and house-made tamarind sauce.

The flavors are beautifully refined, making it perfect for a date night or special occasion. The restaurant itself is sleek and modern, but still warm and inviting. You’ll feel like you’re dining somewhere truly special.

I love how every dish is presented with such care. It’s a feast for both your eyes and your taste buds. If you want to impress someone with great Thai food, bring them here.

Pro tip:

Start with their green papaya salad to balance the rich flavors of the Pad Thai. Its tangy and crisp taste preps your palate perfectly. This pairing elevates your dining experience.

3. Sala Thai

Media Credit: /salathaiburrard/

Location 888 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 604-683-7999
Prices $15 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Monday – Friday 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Saturday – Sunday 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM 

Website Sala Thai

Sala Thai has been serving up classic Pad Thai for over 30 years, and it’s still one of my go-to spots. Their noodles are perfectly chewy, and the sauce is rich with a hint of tamarind. You can taste the experience in every bite.

The restaurant has a traditional Thai decor that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a laid-back night out. The friendly staff make the experience even better.

If you’re in the mood for dependable, authentic Pad Thai, Sala Thai won’t let you down. It’s a classic for a reason, and it always hits the spot.

Pro tip:

Ask for extra lime and crushed peanuts to enhance the dish’s tangy and nutty flavors. The added texture takes the Pad Thai to another level. It’s a simple tweak that makes a big difference.

4. Fat Mao Noodles

Media Credit:/fatmaonoodles/

Location 217 E Georgia St, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 604-569-8192
Prices $14 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Monday – Friday 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Saturday – Sunday 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM 

Website Fat Mao Noodles

Fat Mao Noodles takes a modern approach to Thai cuisine, and their Pad Thai is no exception. I tried their coconut and mushroom noodle variation, and it blew me away. The flavors are bold, unique, and absolutely delicious.

The casual and cozy vibe of the place makes it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. You can see the love and creativity that goes into every dish. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional Pad Thai.

This spot is for anyone who loves trying something a little different. You’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for fusion Thai food. It’s a must-visit.

Pro tip:

Pair your noodles with their Thai iced coffee for a bold, satisfying finish. The rich coffee complements the savory and spicy flavors perfectly. You’ll love this unique combination.

5. Kin Kao Thai Kitchen

Media Credit: /kinkaokitchen/

Location 903 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 604-558-1125
Prices $17 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Sunday – Monday Closed
  • Tuesday – Saturday 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM 

Website: Kin Kao Thai Kitchen

Kin Kao Thai Kitchen brings a refined touch to Pad Thai. They use fresh, local ingredients to elevate this classic dish. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the flavors are beautifully balanced.

The restaurant has a minimalist, modern vibe that makes it a great spot for a casual date or dinner with friends. I love how light yet flavorful their Pad Thai feels. It’s satisfying without being too heavy.

If you appreciate high-quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation, you’ll love this place. It’s one of those spots that keeps you coming back.

Pro tip:

Order the Tom Yum soup as a starter to kick off your meal with a burst of flavor. It’s light, tangy, and incredibly aromatic. This sets the tone for an exceptional dining experience.

6. Rice and Noodle

Media Credit: /thericeandnoodle/

Location 1236 Robson St, Vancouver BC
Contact +1 604-693-0055
Prices $10 per plate
Operation Hours: Monday – Sunday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM 
Website: Rice and Noodle

Rice and Noodle is my go-to spot for a quick and affordable Pad Thai fix. Their version is packed with flavor, and the portions are generous enough to keep you satisfied. The tangy tamarind sauce ties everything together perfectly.

It’s a simple, no-frills place, which I really appreciate when I’m in a rush. The service is quick, and the food is always hot and fresh. It’s perfect for grabbing takeout or enjoying a casual meal.

If you’re on a budget but still want delicious Pad Thai, this spot delivers every time. You’ll get great food without breaking the bank, and trust me, it’s worth every penny.

Pro tip:

Request extra peanuts and lime to amplify the tangy and nutty notes of the Pad Thai. It adds a refreshing zing to the dish. This quick customization enhances the flavor balance.

7. Thai Basil

Media Credit:/thaibasilvancouver/ 

Location 1215 Thurlow St, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 604-685-6754
Prices $11 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Monday – Thursday 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM 
  • Friday – Saturday 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
  • Sunday 12:00 NN – 9:30 PM

Website: Thai Basil

Thai Basil is the perfect place when you want a reliable and affordable Pad Thai. Their noodles are always cooked just right, with a sauce that’s rich, tangy, and slightly sweet. It’s comfort food at its best.

The casual, laid-back vibe of the restaurant makes it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner. I love how fast and efficient their service is—you’re never kept waiting for long. It’s a hidden gem in East Vancouver.

This place proves you don’t need to spend a lot for delicious Thai food. You’ll leave full and satisfied without feeling like you’ve overspent. It’s a win-win in my book.

Pro tip:

Try their Thai iced tea for a refreshing complement to the rich Pad Thai flavors. Its sweet, creamy taste pairs beautifully with the tangy sauce. It’s a must-have combo.

8. Zab Bite

Media Credit: /zabbite.yvr/

Location 4197 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 778-681-5752
Prices $12 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Monday – Thursday 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM 
  • Friday – Sunday 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Website: Zab Bite

Zab Bite serves up authentic flavors in a cozy, relaxed setting. Their Pad Thai is packed with bold flavors, and I love the balance of sweetness and tanginess in their sauce. The fresh herbs and crunchy peanuts seal the deal.

The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it perfect for a low-key meal. I’ve brought friends here, and they always leave impressed. You can tell the food is made with care, and the portions are super generous.

If you’re looking for a comfortable spot to enjoy great Thai food, this is it. You’ll feel right at home and leave with a happy, full belly. It’s one of my favorite neighborhood spots.

Pro tip:

Ask for extra chili flakes to give your Pad Thai a spicy kick. The heat enhances the bold, tangy flavors of the dish. You’ll love the added depth it brings.

9. The Naam

Media Credit:/naamrestaurant/

Location 2724 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 604-738-7151
Prices $14 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Monday – Friday 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM 
  • Saturday – Sunday 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Website The Naam

The Naam is a vegetarian favorite, and their Pad Thai doesn’t disappoint. It’s loaded with fresh veggies, tofu, and a rich, peanutty sauce that’s incredibly satisfying. I love how hearty and filling it is without feeling heavy.

The restaurant has a cozy, bohemian vibe, which makes it a fun spot to visit any time of day. Plus, it’s open 24 hours, so you can satisfy your Pad Thai cravings whenever they strike. It’s the perfect late-night go-to.

Even as someone who eats meat, I’ve never felt like I’m missing out here. Their plant-based take on Pad Thai is just that good. You’ll love it, no matter your diet.

Pro tip:

Pair the Pad Thai with their signature Naam Dragon Bowl for a hearty, flavorful combo. It’s a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures. This duo is satisfying and memorable.

10. Thai Away Home

Media Credit: /thaiawayhome/ 

Location 1081 Granville St, Vancouver, BC
Contact +1 604-428-5195
Prices $12 per plate
Operation Hours:

  • Monday – Saturday 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM  and 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Sunday 12:00 NN – 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Website Thai Away Home

Thai Away Home offers some of the most customizable Pad Thai options I’ve found. You can choose tofu, chicken, or shrimp, and they load it up with fresh veggies. The sauce is flavorful, and the portions are generous.

It’s a cozy spot with quick service, making it great for takeout or a casual meal. I love how fresh everything tastes, and the flavors always hit just right. It’s one of those places you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Their Pad Thai is perfect when you’re in the mood for something satisfying but not too heavy. It’s a solid choice for a quick and delicious Thai meal. You’ll walk out happy every time.

Pro tip:

Take home their house-made peanut sauce for adding extra flavor to your leftovers. It’s rich, creamy, and versatile. You’ll want to put it on everything.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

The Best Vancouver expert reviews directly to your inbox (and absolutely no spam!)