GU THAI — Restaurant in Duluth

Ever since moving to this area from downtown, I really missed Thai food. So when I found out about this place via social media I really had high hopes. They touted the no-tip policy and the self service which in my mind means reasonable pricing. Who doesn’t want that in this inflationary economy? The atmosphere when you walk in is clean and cafeteria-esque, in-line with their concept of self service. Orders are placed via the kiosks when you walk in. The pricing however was a little bit jarring. Main dishes range between $15-$24 and smaller snacks/appetizers are $5-$16. I thought “the food has got to be really good for these prices.” We started with the Fried Chick which unfortunately came out over cooked, had the texture of jerky but was completely under seasoned. We also order the dumplings which at $8 for 5 was also bereft of any flavor. The Satay and Roti-Massaman wasn’t bad but they too were very bland. For main dishes we ordered the Pad Se Ew which was also heart healthy and lacked seasoning and Spicy Basil Chicken wasn’t bad but not memorable. Portions were on the smaller side but we didn’t even bother to take the leftovers home but, instead, shuttled them to the oddly specific waste stations. I can’t remember exactly but they had bins for cups, dishes, bowls and utensils or something like that. In all we spent just shy of $80 for two main dishes and three appetizers in a self service restaurant - not economical by any means. But considering the flavor and portion sizes it felt even more expensive. Maybe the lunch specials are better but weren’t offered over the weekend. In the end, I don’t mind paying a premium for food when it stands up but when the pricing is this high and the food this underwhelming it makes me feel duped by the advertising and the number of 5-star reviews by people with 1or2 review history. I might give it another try but not...

I recently visited Gu Thai after seeing it recommended on my Instagram, and I’m so glad I gave it a try! The food and overall experience were amazing. The restaurant has a unique vibe—rustic but still modern, and the design feels fresh. It's in a new spot, and when you walk in, you immediately notice the kiosks to order food, which is a bit of a different experience. The self-service system is convenient, though it did feel like they hadn’t fully implemented all their options yet, as there weren’t a ton of choices for substitutions or customization while ordering.

We went on a Monday night, and since it’s a new place, the menu didn’t show many vegetarian or pescatarian options upfront. But when we asked the staff if we could swap the meat in some dishes for seafood or tofu, they were very accommodating. We ordered Panang Curry (beef to tofu), Massaman Curry (chicken to shrimp), and Spicy Basil Fried Rice (chicken to tofu). Once we finished ordering, we went up to the front to confirm our substitutions. One staff member mentioned there would be an extra charge for shrimp, but then another staff member explained that since we were switching to tofu, there wouldn’t be any extra fees, which was a nice surprise.

The food came out super quickly—within minutes—and everything was perfectly cooked. It came with pickled carrots and radish on the side, which added a nice crunch and tang to the meal. The flavors were incredible, and the portions were just the right size. The back room has a lot of seating, which makes it a great spot for groups. I can see this place becoming even more popular as they fine-tune the ordering system.

Overall, I’m really impressed with Gu Thai! If you’re looking for delicious Thai food in a laid-back, modern setting, this is definitely worth a visit. I’ll be...

Amazing Thai Restaurant Experience! 🌟 If you're searching for an authentic and unforgettable Thai dining experience, look no further! This Thai restaurant is a gem that exceeds expectations in every way. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with warm hospitality and a cozy ambiance that transports you straight to Thailand.

Food: The food is the true star of the show. Every dish bursts with vibrant flavors and is beautifully presented. The Pad Thai is perfectly balanced with a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. The Green Curry is rich, creamy, and has just the right amount of heat. Don't miss the Tom Yum Soup, which is a harmonious blend of spicy and sour flavors that wake up your taste buds. Vegetarians and meat-lovers alike will find plenty of options to enjoy.

Service: The staff is incredibly attentive and friendly, making sure every need is met. They're happy to recommend dishes based on your preferences and even customize spice levels to suit your palate.

Atmosphere: The decor is charming, with traditional Thai elements that add a touch of elegance. Soft lighting and calming music create a relaxing environment, perfect for both intimate dinners and family gatherings.

Value: The portions are generous, and the prices are more than reasonable given the quality of the food and service. It's a fantastic value for an authentic Thai culinary journey.

Overall: This restaurant delivers an exceptional dining experience that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you're a Thai food aficionado or trying it for the first time, this place is a must-visit. Highly recommended!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I'll definitely be returning soon to explore more of their...