Thai food has woven itself into the very fabric of Columbia’s culinary identity. We’ve got fiery curries that command a cult following, pad thai so good it sparks online debate, and serene spots for a perfect mango sticky rice. But with so many options, where do you start? For the definitive guide to lemongrass, basil, and chili in the Midlands, look no further.
Golden Chopstix
$ | (803) 791-0206 | WEBSITE
Golden Chopstix has some of the best Thai food around. Well, technically it’s in a small shopping center in Cayce, but we’re not here to tell you what type of location to eat your Pad Kee Mao in. As the friendly service implies, Golden Chopstix also serves delicious and affordable dishes year-round, along with Vietnamese Eggrolls, Hot and Sour Soup, and more. If you’re looking for value, you can try the shrimp bun and the tasty Tofu Soup for a meal that won’t disappoint.
Duke’s Pad Thai
$ | (803) 661-6455 | WEBSITE
We’re not sure if the Thai government’s culinary export plan involved basil fried rice or Korean fried chicken, but there’s plenty of both at this Columbia spot. They’ve been serving since the 2025 update, and they’re still at it with a great selection of pad thai and drunken noodles. Plus, they’ve got a nicely connected tea spot with fresh vegetables and poke bowls.
The staff are happy to provide you with generous portions and friendly service, which is particularly useful for those of us new to the high flavor pleasures of papaya salad.
Mai Thai Cuisine
$ | (803) 939-4795 | WEBSITE
Mai Thai Cuisine has been serving up authentic Thai flavors in Columbia for years. The staff is polite and helpful, treating guests like family and happily explaining dishes if you’re curious about ingredients or spice levels. You’re coming here for generous portions of classic Thai fare like the Pad Kee Mao with its wide noodles, the My Thai roll appetizer, and standout entrees like the tender chicken satey and flavorful cashew chicken. Want something with a twist?
The Hot Basil features juicy chicken breast in an amazing sauce, while the Sweet and Sour surprises with a tomato base instead of syrup. All dishes can be made vegetarian with crispy or soft tofu. Need something to share? The portions are perfect for passing around the table.
Basil Thai Cuisine
$$ | (803) 782-0716 | WEBSITE
Basil Thai Cuisine in Columbia is both a sit-down restaurant and a takeout spot, with popular menu items like chicken and beef kebabs, shrimp spring rolls, and volcano shrimp. If you’re looking for a reliable weeknight meal, their wings and spring rolls are consistently fresh and flavorful. As an added bonus, the manager is knowledgeable and welcoming—feel free to ask for recommendations if you’re unsure about the Pad Thai.
Baan Sawan Thai Bistro
$$ | (803) 252-8992 | WEBSITE
Tucked away near Five Points, Baan Sawan Thai Bistro is particularly creative and lovingly crafted, which means green curry with seasonal vegetables one week and spicy basil stir-fry the next. While Baan Sawan does offer excellent takeout that’s praised as some of the best in years, we prefer to stop in on a Friday or Saturday evening, where we can browse the thoughtfully curated used book collection after finishing a delicious set menu dinner from their on-site kitchen.
Sushi & Hibachi To Go
$ | (803) 400-0988 | WEBSITE
For those craving a quick and affordable Thai-inspired meal, Sushi & Hibachi To Go is your convenient spot. A small storefront with limited seating creates a straightforward “stop and go” atmosphere, perfect for grabbing California rolls or combination plates on the fly. If you’re looking for something more substantial, the restaurant offers vegetarian options like tofu and mixed vegetables, along with specialty sushi deals that won’t break the bank.
The owners’ personal attention and willingness to bring orders out to your car add a friendly touch to the experience.
Lotus Thai Dining
$ | (803) 995-7039 | WEBSITE
If authentic Thai curry is your thing, Lotus Thai Dining in Columbia is your spot. They also have well-presented sushi rolls, perfectly cooked shrimp hibachi, red snapper, and more. For family-friendly meals, Lotus Thai offers pad Thai and pho to go, along with a small selection of Vietnamese dishes, fried rice, and refreshing beverages. And if you’re looking for something specific, you can find it on their diverse menu.
Ruby thai kitchen
$$ | (803) 205-1000 | WEBSITE
For your next Thai food craving, satisfy it with the generous portions and flavorful dishes at Ruby Thai Kitchen. This friendly spot in Columbia serves delicious noodles and Thai classics at reasonable prices, with most entrees around $12-16. The polite staff will gladly help you decide what to get from their menu. If you’re looking for something extra, don’t miss their boba drinks to complete your meal.
Thailand Restaurant
$ | (803) 731-7715 | WEBSITE
In the early 2000s, the owners of Thailand Restaurant started serving authentic Thai cuisine in Columbia. Fortunately for us, their commitment to quality ingredients and family-friendly service has made them the Thai food destination we know today, offering their signature Pad Thai, along with flavorful curries, fried tofu appetizers, and, yes, generous portions. You can visit their welcoming dining room for a delightful meal with the family, or order convenient takeout for those busy weeknights.
Kao Thai Cuisine
$$ | (803) 569-6881 | WEBSITE
Walking into a restaurant and seeing a menu full of pad thai and crispy brussel sprouts is one of life’s simple pleasures. Thanks to Kao Thai Cuisine’s well-labeled options, that possibility is always available for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diners. They also serve innovative cocktails and mocktails with beautiful presentation, meaning you can enjoy a flavorful drink with just about every meal.
The quick service is ideal for those moments when you just need to savor a delicious dinner immediately.