Thai Orchid Preston — Restaurant in Preston

I have been going to the Thai Orchid since it first opened and whether it’s been one or six months since I last visited, I’m always sure of two things – the food is always going to be of the same outstanding taste & quality and there will always be a warm welcome.

The menu covers every style of Thai food from tasty soups and stir-fry dishes to the classic red, green and yellow curries, covering all the key flavours of spicy, salty, sweet and sour of Thai food but always being abundant in those aromatic flavours of lemongrass, galangal, and basil. The mixed starters plate is so hard to resist as gives you that full spectrum of tastes and textures and everything becomes a new favourite.

It’s also good to see a restaurant that has a comprehensive wine list that is paired to Thai food so well, benefitting from Alex’s other work in the wine industry. Having the choice of a really good Reisling from New Zealand or a lightly chilled Beaujolais is the perfect match.

Even though we went just recently it’s now a Sunday afternoon when I am typing this review and I’m drooling over the thought of my next taste of Thai Holy Basil dish of Pad Krapow or the “No Onions” version of the Yellow Curry they accommodate for me, without detracting from its flavour.

Get off the beaten track of the main streets of Preston and discover this local gem – you...

We go to Thai Orchid most Fridays when we’re in Preston, and it’s always a highlight. The food is proper Thai, full of flavour, and the portions are massive – you never leave hungry. It’s also really good value for money, especially with how much you get.

The place is run by Alex and his mum, Auntie Tik, who also does all the cooking. She’s a brilliant chef – everything she makes is packed with flavour, and it always feels like a home-cooked meal. The spring rolls are a favourite of ours, and the massuman curry is hands-down one of the best I’ve had.

Alex makes a killer Singapore Sling too – honestly just as good as the one at Raffles in Singapore. He takes real pride in his drinks, and it shows.

It’s a warm, welcoming place with great food and even better people. We always leave full and happy – and already planning...

I travel from Liverpool into Preston just to come back to the Thai Orchid, it’s a rare hidden gem that you don’t want to share. It’s small, personal, quaint and full of charm. It’s recently been refurbished, and the little restaurant just oozes character.

Alex is always so welcoming and will recommend food based on your preferences, and he’ll even tell exactly what wine will go best with your meal – his recommendations have never missed. I’ve tried most of the menu, but the Pad Thai and chicken satay starter keep me coming back. Aunty Tik is an absolute star too. You can taste the love, care and passion in her cooking.

Highly, highly recommend if you’re in the area and looking for an authentic, practiced Thai dining experience - just don’t tell too...