Kalaya

"Kalaya is the first place we think of when we want to eat somewhere exciting in Philly. Perfect for a birthday where you want to satisfy everyone (but mostly yourself), there’s a full bar, 14-foot palm trees, and music that you haven’t heard in years but you still know every word to. You'll see plates of tender peppercorn steak, flower-shaped dumplings, and curries of every color getting whipped up in the open kitchen. It's a buzzy, fun spot where you can sit back with people that have known you since grade school and share a lineup of incredible wok-fried dishes and mounds of shaved ice topped with banana cream." - candis mclean, alison kessler

"For excellent and exciting Thai food in a chic and sexy package, look no further than Kalaya. The Fishtown restaurant's industrial space includes a full bar and lounge area, booths for large groups, and two-tops surrounding 14-foot Thai palm trees that reach up to an atrium glass ceiling. The southern Thai menu is extensive—your best bet is to come with a group and play table tetris with an order of (almost) everything. You’ll want some chicken dumplings that look too pretty to eat, and the fiery, sweet, and sour grilled squid. Save room for one of the umami-rich wok-fried dishes, and at least one curry from the rainbow of options. From their innovative cocktails to unforgettable dishes, Kalaya is an experience unlike anywhere else in the city." - candis mclean, alison kessler

"A Philadelphia restaurant celebrated for its authentic Thai cuisine." - Melissa McCart

"Chef Nok Suntaranon — on the November 2024 Chef’s Table — has moved her Thai restaurant to a larger location in Fishtown. Thankfully, everything is as flavorful and fun as expected, including new additions like tropical cocktails. The menu of Southern Thai dishes is longer, so bigger groups will find lots to share, like miang pla phao — a whole grilled branzino served with pineapple, herbs, and rice noodles — or a towering tom yum kalaya with giant river prawns emerging from the fragrant broth. The chic restaurant recently started lunch service on weekends, and small groups can usually find a spot at the bar, but it’s best to book ahead for a table." - Eater Staff, Ernest Owens

"Offers a high-end Thai experience with Kolsch Slurpees." - Ashok Selvam