Indian Food in Thailand (2025): Where Indians Can Actually Find Real Desi Food — From Bangkok to Phuket & Even the Airports

If you are an Indian planning a trip to Thailand and secretly wondering, “Will I get proper Indian food there, or will I die eating only Pad Thai?”, relax. You will be fine. In fact, in some areas you will find more butter chicken than Tom Yum.

This guide cuts through the nonsense and shows you exactly where you can find real desi food in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya and even around the airports. Plus, you will get 7-Eleven hacks, Indian-friendly Thai dishes, and a few sassy reality checks so you do not land up in a random “Indian” restaurant that tastes like tomato soup on rice.

By the end, you will know exactly where to eat, what to order, and which areas to stay in if food comfort matters as much as beaches and temples.

Also read another article we wrote about What Indians Can Eat in Thailand: A Complete Food Survival Guide for 2026

Quick Answer: Is Indian Food Easy To Find In Thailand?

Short answer: Yes. Very easy in the main tourist areas, slightly harder in small towns, but still manageable.

• Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya: Dozens of proper Indian restaurants, from budget to fine dining.
• Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, Koh Samui: Fewer options, but still enough good places for most trips.
• Airports: Limited pure Indian restaurants, but enough Indian-style or vegetarian friendly meals if you know what to look for.
• 7-Eleven: Quietly saves every Indian traveller at 1 a.m. when hunger strikes.

If you want a deep dive into what Indians can eat beyond Indian restaurants, you can also read your main food survival guide: What Indians Can Eat in Thailand.

Indian Food in Bangkok: Where The Masala Meets The BTS

Bangkok is the capital of both Thailand and “Indian food in Thailand”. If you stay anywhere around Sukhumvit (Nana, Asoke, Phrom Phong), you are basically living in a mini desi food zone.

Best Areas in Bangkok for Indian Food

• Nana / Sukhumvit Soi 3–11: Extremely high density of Indian, Pakistani, and Middle Eastern restaurants. Great for budget and mid-range meals.
• Sukhumvit 13–26 (Asoke to Phrom Phong): Mix of casual and slightly upscale Indian restaurants. Easily accessible by BTS Asok / Phrom Phong.
• Silom area: Some classic Indian spots plus easy access from city centre.

Stay in these zones and you will never be more than a short walk or a quick moto-taxi away from a proper tandoor.

Top Indian Restaurants in Bangkok To Try

Here is a mix of places that Indian travellers repeatedly praise for real flavours, not “tourist masala”.

1. Amritsr (Multiple Branches on Sukhumvit)

Type: North Indian, Punjabi, late-night friendly
Why go: Huge portions, proper Punjabi taste, open late, and feels like a serious “pet bhar ke khana” place.

Amritsr has become one of the most recognised Indian chains in Thailand, with a strong presence in Bangkok around Sukhumvit and Asoke, offering North Indian favourites like dal makhani, butter chicken, keema kulcha, and tandoori items.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Good for: Families, late-night cravings, travellers who want something familiar on day one before becoming adventurous.

2. Punjab Grill Bangkok

Type: Upscale North Indian dining

Located in the central Sukhumvit area, Punjab Grill is known for its high-end experience, refined presentation, and modern takes on classic North Indian dishes. Reviewers often highlight the Sunday brunch and consistent quality.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Good for: Special occasions, anniversary dinners, or when you want to prove to your parents that Thailand is not only about backpacker hostels.

3. Daryaganj Bangkok

Type: Classic Delhi-style North Indian

Daryaganj is a well-known Delhi brand that has extended to Bangkok, focusing on rich curries, tandoori grills, and heritage recipes. Guests often rate it highly for both taste and service.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Good for: Delhi people who want to quietly judge whether the butter chicken passes the Chandni Chowk test.

4. Benares Modern Indian Cuisine

Type: Contemporary Indian, date-night friendly

Benares in Bangkok focuses on modern presentation with familiar Indian flavours, often praised for its ambience and plating as much as the food.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Good for: Couples, small groups, or anyone who enjoys modern Indian without losing the soul of the dishes.

5. Budget Indian Spots Around Nana

Around Nana and lower Sukhumvit you will find smaller Indian and Pakistani restaurants serving very affordable sets, thalis, and curries. These change frequently, so use Google Maps reviews and recent photos rather than relying only on old blogs.

Good for: Backpackers, solo travellers, or anyone who prefers to spend money on massage and nightlife instead of fine dining.

Where To Stay in Bangkok for Easy Indian Food

If food comfort is a priority, look for hotels around:

• Nana BTS: Maximum Indian food density.
• Asoke BTS: Easy access to both Nana and Phrom Phong, plus malls.
• Phrom Phong BTS: Good for nicer restaurants and malls.

You can compare hotel prices in these areas here: Cheapest Branded Hotels: How To Sleep In Big Brands For Less.

Indian Food at Bangkok Airports (Suvarnabhumi & Don Mueang)

Let us be honest. Airports are not the place for the best Indian food in Thailand. However, if you are stuck between flights and need something that feels familiar, you still have decent options.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

Pure Indian restaurants come and go inside the airport, but you can usually find:

• Food courts with rice and curry counters where you can choose veg curries, fried eggs, and stir-fried vegetables.
• South Asian inspired curries at some Asian or fusion stalls that taste close enough to Indian gravy when you are hungry.
• Veg fried rice, egg fried rice, steamed rice with vegetables that are safe and non-experimental.

Do not expect restaurant-level Indian food here. Think of it as “functional food” to keep you going until you reach the city.

Don Mueang Airport (DMK)

Don Mueang is more focused on low-cost airlines and regional routes. Indian-specific options are usually limited, but you can still manage with:

• Food court rice and curry
• Plain rice with omelette
• Sandwiches, pastries, and coffee for short waits

Pro tip: If you have a long layover, consider going into the city instead of hunting for Indian food inside the airport. The ride to central Bangkok is usually worth it for a proper meal.

Indian Food in Phuket: From Beach Road To Old Town

Phuket has a surprisingly strong Indian food scene, especially around Patong and Old Town. Good food, long opening hours, and very tourist friendly.

Best Areas in Phuket for Indian Food

• Patong Beach: Main tourist hub with many Indian restaurants along the beach road and side streets.
• Kalim Beach: Quieter area with a few well rated Indian spots.
• Phuket Old Town: More relaxed vibe, some good Indian restaurants mixed with local cafes.

Top Indian Restaurants in Phuket To Consider

1. Amritsr Phuket (Patong & Old Town)

Type: North Indian, Punjabi, late-night friendly

Amritsr has multiple branches around Phuket, including Patong Beach Road and Old Town, serving North Indian favourites like butter chicken, dal makhani, paneer tikka, kebabs, and fresh naan. Many travellers rate it as one of the best spots for proper desi comfort food on the island.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Good for: Groups, families, and anyone who wants consistent North Indian taste without surprise fusion experiments.

2. Other Indian Restaurants Along Patong Beach

Patong Beach has a long list of Indian restaurants, from simple curry houses to more polished dining rooms. Names change over time, so focus on places with:

• Recent reviews within the last 6–12 months
• Photos that show proper tandoori dishes and naan, not just “red gravy everything”
• Clear vegetarian options and paneer dishes

3. Indian Food in Phuket Old Town

Old Town is more relaxed and less chaotic than Patong. You will find a few Indian restaurants here, including branches of well-known chains like Amritsr Old Town, serving North Indian staples in a stylish setting.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Where To Stay in Phuket for Easy Indian Food

• Patong: Best for maximum restaurant choice and nightlife (and noise).
• Kalim: Quieter but still close to Patong and Indian dining.
• Old Town: Good for culture, cafes, and relaxed evenings.

Use this guide to avoid overpaying for big brands: How To Find The Cheapest Branded Hotels.

Indian Food in Chiang Mai: Delhi Street & Friends

Chiang Mai does not have as many Indian restaurants as Bangkok or Phuket, but the options are improving, and you already have one very strong player in town.

Delhi Street Indian Restaurant (Chiang Mai)

Location: Inside ibis Chiang Mai Nimman Journeyhub, Nimman area

Type: Indian street food inspired restaurant with combo sets, curries, tandoor, and snacks

Delhi Street is one of the newest and most talked-about Indian restaurants in Chiang Mai, offering everything from pani puri and momos to North Indian curries, biryanis, and grab-and-go combo sets starting around THB 150++

Why it works so well for Indian travellers:

• Proper Indian taste without being too heavy.
• Veg, non-veg, and vegan options.
• Location in Nimman, close to cafes, malls, and other tourist spots.

Other Indian Options in Chiang Mai

You will also find a small number of other Indian restaurants around the Old City and Night Bazaar areas. These tend to be family-run places with classic North Indian menus. As always, rely on recent reviews and photos rather than very old blog posts.

If you are staying in Nimman or Old City, you will never be more than a short ride away from Indian food. To plan your Chiang Mai stay smarter, combine this guide with your main Thailand timing article: Best Time To Visit Thailand (2025–2026 Guide).

Indian Food in Pattaya, Koh Samui and Hua Hin: Quick Overview

These destinations also have Indian restaurants, though each has a slightly different feel.

Pattaya

Pattaya has a strong Indian presence, and you will find several Indian restaurants across the main beach road and side streets. Amritsr also has a branch here, which many travellers recognise.:contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

If you walk along Beach Road or Second Road near the central area, you will spot multiple Indian signs, menus, and thali boards quite easily.

Koh Samui

On Koh Samui, Indian restaurants are more scattered, but Chaweng and Lamai usually have a few options with both North Indian and mixed Asian menus. This is more “one or two meals” territory, not “daily Indian food” territory.

Hua Hin

Hua Hin has a quieter tourism scene but still offers a handful of Indian restaurants in the central area and near the night market. Perfect if you want one Indian dinner after a few days of seafood and Thai curries.

7-Eleven: The Secret Backup Plan For Indian Taste Buds

If you are travelling with family, kids, or someone who gets hungry at strange hours, 7-Eleven will become your best friend in Thailand.

Indian-Friendly Things To Buy at 7-Eleven

• Fried rice packs: Many microwave rice options are mildly flavoured and not overly spicy.
• Plain rice with omelette: Simple and filling when you need comfort food.
• Corn soup, mushroom soup, tomato soup: Easy to digest and familiar flavours.
• Sandwiches: Cheese, egg, tuna, and sometimes chicken tikka style flavours.
• Yogurt and flavoured milk: Good for kids and sensitive stomachs.
• Snacks: Peanuts, cashews, chips, biscuits, and instant noodles for backup.

No, 7-Eleven is not “proper Indian food”, but at 1 a.m. it feels like a blessing.

Thai Dishes That Feel Familiar To Indian Palates

You did not come all the way to Thailand only to eat dal fry. So once you feel safe with the Indian options, start trying Thai dishes that are naturally closer to Indian taste.

1. Pad Krapao (Basil Stir Fry With Rice)

This is a spicy stir fry with basil, chilli, garlic, and your choice of meat or tofu, served with rice and usually a fried egg on top. It feels like a desi spicy dry sabzi on rice. You can ask for:

• “Krapao gai sai kai dao, phet noi” (chicken basil with fried egg, less spicy)
• Or replace chicken with moo (pork) or tofu where available.

2. Pad See Ew

Wide rice noodles stir fried with soy sauce, vegetables, and egg. Comforting, slightly sweet, and much less spicy than many other Thai dishes. Good for kids and anyone who is spice sensitive.

3. Massaman Curry

Massaman is a mild curry influenced by Indian and Persian flavours, usually containing potatoes, peanuts, and a rich, slightly sweet gravy. For many Indians, this feels like a cousin of Indian curry with a Thai twist.

4. Green Curry and Red Curry (With Adjustments)

Green and red curries can be quite spicy and sweet, but if you ask for less spice and choose chicken or vegetables, they become manageable for most Indian palates.

5. Thai Roti (Street Food)

In many tourist areas you will find roti carts that look suspiciously like Indian paratha stalls. These rotis are usually sweet, topped with banana, Nutella, or condensed milk. They are not Indian bread, but they give a familiar comfort-food feeling after dinner.

How To Order Indian-Friendly Food Without Speaking Thai

You do not need perfect Thai to survive here. A few simple tricks are enough.

• Use Google Maps: Search “Indian restaurant near me” and sort by rating and recent reviews.
• Show photos: In local Thai places, you can point at photos on the menu and say “no spicy” or “little spicy”.
• Key phrases:

• “Phet noi” = little spicy
• “Mai phet” = not spicy
• “Jay” = vegetarian style (no meat, usually no egg or fish sauce)

Combine this with clear pointing and a friendly smile, and you will manage almost everywhere.

Where To Stay If Indian Food Is A Priority

If you want simple travel planning, choose your hotel based on food access and transport.

Bangkok

• Nana / Asoke: Walkable Indian food everywhere.
• Phrom Phong: Slightly more upscale area, still good access to Indian restaurants and malls.

Phuket

• Patong: Best for Indian restaurant choice and nightlife.
• Old Town: Best for culture and more relaxed evenings, with a few solid Indian options.

Chiang Mai

• Nimman: Perfect if you want to stay close to Delhi Street, cafes, and modern Chiang Mai life.
• Old City: Good mix of Thai, international and some Indian restaurants.

To keep your hotel spend under control while still staying near food and transport, read: Cheapest Branded Hotels: How Smart Travellers Pay Less For Big Names and compare deals on Booking.com and flexible flight options via Cheapest Flexible Flights.

Sample 3-Day “Safe Food” Plan For Indian Travellers

If you are still nervous, here is a simple starting plan for your first three days in Thailand.

Day 1 – Comfort First

• Breakfast: Hotel buffet, focus on eggs, bread, fruits, yogurt.
• Lunch: Indian restaurant near your hotel (Amritsr or similar in Bangkok, Delhi Street in Chiang Mai, etc.).
• Snack: 7-Eleven sandwich or yoghurt.
• Dinner: Another Indian meal or very mild Thai dish like pad see ew.

Day 2 – Mix of Indian and Thai

• Breakfast: Hotel or café.
• Lunch: Thai dish such as krapao (less spicy) or massaman curry.
• Snack: Thai roti or fruit.
• Dinner: Back to Indian, try a different restaurant.

Day 3 – More Confident

• Breakfast: Normal hotel breakfast.
• Lunch: Thai street food that looks busy and popular with locals, order something mild.
• Snack: 7-Eleven instant noodles or soup.
• Dinner: Either your favourite Indian place from previous days or a new Thai restaurant with clear menu photos.

Within three days, most Indian travellers realise that food in Thailand is not a problem at all. It becomes one of the highlights.

FAQs About Indian Food in Thailand

Is Indian food expensive in Thailand?

Prices vary. Simple Indian restaurants around Nana in Bangkok or central Pattaya can be very affordable, especially for thali or set meals. Upscale places like Punjab Grill or Benares will cost more but offer a higher-end experience. In general, Indian food is slightly more expensive than local Thai food, but still reasonable compared with Indian restaurants in many Western countries.:contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Will I find vegetarian Indian food easily?

Yes. Most Indian restaurants in Thailand cater to vegetarian guests with paneer, lentils, vegetable curries, and snacks. Many have clearly labelled veg sections on the menu, and some can even adjust spice levels on request.:contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

Is Indian food available late at night?

In big cities and tourist zones, yes. Many Indian restaurants in Bangkok and Phuket stay open late, especially around Sukhumvit and Patong, and some branches of Amritsr and similar chains operate until very late hours to cater to nightlife crowds.:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Can I survive in Thailand without eating Indian food at all?

Of course. Many Indian travellers end up loving Thai food once they learn what to order and how to manage spice. However, it is nice to know that proper Indian food is there whenever you want a taste of home or need something familiar after a long day.

Final Thoughts: Thailand Is Not A Food Risk For Indians

If you had a secret fear that you would be stuck eating only papaya salad and mystery seafood, you can drop that now. Thailand in 2025 has:

• Strong Indian restaurant scenes in Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya.
• Reliable options in Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, and Koh Samui.
• Indian-friendly backup food in 7-Eleven everywhere.
• Plenty of Thai dishes that match Indian spice and comfort levels.

So book the trip, pick your hotel in a food-friendly area, and use this guide as your food map. Thailand will not only give you beaches, temples, and nightlife. It will also give you butter chicken at 2 a.m., pani puri in Chiang Mai, and krapao that tastes suspiciously like the spicy sabzi you grew up with.

When you are ready to plan the rest of your trip, continue with:

• Best Time To Visit Thailand (2025–2026 Guide)
• Cheapest Branded Hotels
• Cheapest Flexible Flights
• What Indians Can Eat in Thailand

Eat well, travel smart, and let everyone else worry about “food problems” while you already have a plan.