Pad Thai, tom yum, satay. When we envision Thai cuisine, meat and seafood often dominate the plate. Yet this protein-heavy focus, celebrated in dishes from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, reflects not just tradition but centuries of trade routes and cultural exchange that shaped Thailand’s culinary identity.
MA – NOW THAI CUISINE
$ | (503) 645-5959 | WEBSITE
This spacious and clean Hillsboro spot takes all things Thai and makes them vegan-friendly – the wide rice noodle dish, the Golden Curry Puff, and the Mango Prawn are particularly great. Note: I fully recognize that some folks will doubt the deliciousness of vegan Thai food, but they should try it before making assumptions. Ma – Now also has flavorful Kai Tender Beef, savory Pad Cha Duck, and zesty Chili Chicken.
Don’t skip out on their good tea either, like the refreshing iced Thai tea and their non-traditional, but just as delightful, vegetarian options throughout the large menu.
DB’s Kitchen
$ | (503) 681-8005 | WEBSITE
If you’ve never had authentic Vietnamese food, or just want to try the best, check out DB’s Kitchen. The family-owned spot offers excellent dishes like pineapple fried rice and the combination bun noodle bowl. “You would be surprised how many Vietnamese Americans frequent our restaurant specifically because we use fresh ingredients and want to enjoy flavors they grew up eating,” say owners Dung and Ben.
While Dung and Ben are actually first-generation Vietnamese-Americans who fell in love with cooking after learning family recipes throughout their youth, their kitchen consistently delivers traditional flavors. Order everything from the best Pho soup, perfect stone pho bowl if you’re really hungry, to the excellent Banh Mi for a quick bite.
Nine Dang Fine Thai
$ | (503) 521-7478 | WEBSITE
Wow! While Nine Dang Fine Thai is a sit-down spot, it’s still one of the best places not just for Thai food in Hillsboro, but Thai cuisine in general. Thai chefs make a consistent selection of classics like Chiang Mai Spicy Sausage, Tangerine Duck, yellow curry, and cashew chicken using fresh veggies and quality ingredients. Based in Hillsboro, Oregon, Nine Dang Fine Thai serves both vegans and meat-eaters with fantastic flavors and tender meat throughout the week.
Sakura Asian Fusion Restaurant
$ | (503) 259-9922 | WEBSITE
When that craving for authentic Thai flavors strikes, Sakura Asian Fusion Restaurant delivers with generous portions at reasonable prices. While the pork curry and drunken noodles satisfy heartier appetites, there are also lighter options like shrimp rolls and crab puffs if that feels more appropriate. Both are just as flavorful, fresh, and positively satisfying as one would expect from traditional Thai cuisine. To visit, head to their clean establishment known for prompt service.
Some may find the Sakura Roll to be a bit salty, but the egg flower soup remains a customer favorite worth trying.
khantoke Thai kitchen
$ | (503) 747-7880 | WEBSITE
Mango sticky rice has never gotten its time in the spotlight quite as it does at this authentic Thai restaurant in Hillsboro. Here, the sweet tropical fruit is prepared two ways in one dessert, all on a bed of warm sticky rice: a base of perfectly cooked glutinous rice with coconut milk is topped with fresh mango slices and a drizzle of coconut cream.
This neighborhood spot serves flavorful Thai dishes using a spectrum of spices and sauces on classic pad Thai, seafood soups, and curries in a quiet space that feels a bit serene, but in a welcoming way. The pad Thai chicken is quickly becoming my go-to order for lunch – it’s made with just the right balance of tamarind and fish sauce that adds a nice tanginess and is served in generous portions rather than skimpy plates.
Similar to how I like my spice levels adjusted, five-star heat just tastes better than any other intensity.
Thai Princess Restaurant
$ | (503) 640-4630 | WEBSITE
For those moments when you crave authentic Thai flavors without the fuss, make your way to this quiet gem in Hillsboro. Run by a Thai owner who truly understands her craft, the concise menu features standout dishes like the Masseman Curry and Pad Thai, but the real highlight is the Pad Thai praised for its non-spicy yet utterly delicious profile.
While some plant-based alternatives can feel like an afterthought, as someone who has sampled Pad Thai across countless Thai spots, I can genuinely appreciate Thai Princess’s approach to this staple. It’s perfectly balanced, flavorful, and satisfying thanks to the careful layering of ingredients and that signature tamarind tang.
Zab Thai Cooking
$ | (503) 690-9622 | WEBSITE
This Hillsboro Thai spot is a warm, well-insulated space that works great for a solo lunch seated in one of their cozy booths, or someplace to end up sharing dishes with friends at the neighboring table. The kitchen preps generous portions like lemongrass chicken salad, summer rolls, garlic chicken, and a Pad Thai that’s well balanced, super fresh, and hot. It’s also a great option for curries, with their yellow curry and panang curry receiving plenty of praise for flavor.
Make sure to try a dish or three, like the Tom Yum soup or Thai green curry. With friendly, prompt service and vegetarian/vegan options, it’s a satisfying choice where you’ll want to return to try more Thai staples.
Gin Thai Brasserie
$ | (503) 747-4895 | WEBSITE
Most people who think Thai food is just about pad thai and spring rolls haven’t tried Gin Thai Brasserie, says the owner of this Hillsboro favorite that’s been the go-to spot for locals for about four years. The menu features classics like Pad Kee Mao, Pad Pak Ruam, and Cashew Nut dishes, plus highlights like crispy Orange Chicken and Spicy Crab Rangoons. Their food is so consistently delicious, with huge, hot portions that never disappoint, that regulars say they’ve never had an order messed up.
Hence, you’ll notice the steady stream of take-out orders ready on time and the clean, welcoming atmosphere that keeps people coming back. Disappointing noodles aside, their fantastic service and reasonable prices make this one of the best Thai places in the Portland/Beaverton area. And we definitely recommend you try the soft serve ice cream for dessert.
Pac Thai
$ | (503) 992-1800 | WEBSITE
When you need to satisfy a craving for authentic Thai food, head to this popular spot in Hillsboro, run by a dedicated team that serves what many consider the best Thai cuisine in the PDX area. They make outstanding versions of Thailand’s beloved dishes, like pumpkin curry (flavorful and velvety smooth), along with drunken noodles (spicy and satisfying), and chicken fried rice that’s freshly prepared with vibrant flavors. Grab a plate and enjoy a flavorful feast in their bustling dining room.
Or if you’re in a bit of a hurry, grab some yakisoba noodles to-go. These freshly made noodles with crisp vegetables and savory sauce are juicy, satisfying, and designed to be enjoyed as quickly as possible.
Siam Village Thai
$$ | (503) 617-9402 | WEBSITE
If you want authentic Thai cooking from a cozy hole-in-the-wall with a great vibe, then Siam Village Thai in Hillsboro has got you. With its clean, tidy space and friendly staff, this spot serves up Bangkok flavors worth trying. The massamam curry and pad see lew come in good portions and are highly recommended, while the papaya salad stands out fresh and crunchy with dry roasted peanuts that add a special touch.
The Tom Kha tofu and dancing string beans with chicken were also well-liked, though some found the green curry could use less dilution and the pad kee mao less sweetness. Be aware that rice isn’t included with curry orders and comes in a plastic zip bag inside a bamboo cup, which is unusual. Prices are fair though a bit high, and if you enjoy spicy food, asking for chilis on the side is recommended. Overall, it’s a convenient spot for a taste of Thailand in the area.