Exploring Top Thai Cuisine in Philly – Kalaya 🇹🇭🍽️

I’d been wanting to try this spot ever since seeing it featured on a Netflix food show. Booked a 9 PM bar seat a week in advance for graduation weekend, but noticed many tables were empty upon arrival—they gladly reseated us. The ambiance is upscale with a glass roof covered in lush tropical plants 🌿. Open kitchen, mostly white staff and customers—felt a bit off, but the food itself was authentic and impressive, rivaling top Thai spots even in NYC. 🥟 Shaw Muang Dumplings (Appetizer) Chicken-filled dumplings with a tangy, spicy kick. Paired with cucumber for freshness—balanced and complex. 🦀 Soft Shell Crab (Entree – $48) Delicious with prominent lemongrass flavor and crispy fried ginger strips. Sauce was rich yet harmonious. Downside: only one and a half crabs for the price—portion felt too small. 🐟 Steamed Whole Sea Bass (Main) – Highly recommend! Tender, well-seasoned fish with fiery bird's eye chili and a tangy lime broth that even sour-lovers might find intense—in a good way! Irresistible. Overall, Kalaya offers distinct Southern Thai flavors—bold, spicy, and memorable, but feels overpriced for the portions. Service was average, pacing slow. Parking available in the evening. Worth a try, but probably not a repeat for me. #PhillyFood #ThaiCuisine #Kalaya #FineDining #SouthernThai #FoodReview #GraduationEats