Pleasant and unassuming Thai restaurant with some of the best fried rice around. The atmosphere is simple and clean (even the menu is fairly plain) but the kitchen provides a premium meal.
I went basically blind, having not checked out any images or reviews, solely visiting on the recommendation of a friend. And I usually always get Thai fried rice, it's a safe bet for me, but it is a more basic dish. So when I tell you I was floored by what I got... I mean I was absolutely delighted.
First I was not expecting a little side salad, but it was a wonderful treat. It wasn't exceptional except that it was a perfect balance of sweet and nutty (which is saying something, because I don't normally care for peanut flavor)! And a pleasant respite before I stuffed my face full of fried rice. And I sure did stuff my face.
I got the lanna fried rice, which sounded like the house fried rice but with more good stuff. This dish came out dressed to the nines. I mean it was a visual treat. A lovely mound of fried rice, flanked on the sides by a crab rangoon, a couple slices of cucumber-like-something (I don't remember what it's called, sorry... But it was juicy and sweet), and slices of tomato cut long ways which I greatly appreciated because I can't even count how many times I've been annoyed trying to bisect grape tomatoes with a fork. And atop the mound a tasty green garnish. The rice and the beef had I think a rather unique seasoning. The spice was just right, as well. I got medium spice which is usually about right for me, and it was enough heat to clear my sinus without leaving me reeling afterwards.
I thoroughly enjoyed the whole meal and cleaned my plate. Definitely left me in a good mood (if you couldn't already tell). It's quite a bit out of the way for me so I don't know when I will be back, but if you have any interest in trying Thai places around the metro, Lanna Thai should be a Must Try...
Read moreThis was the first time I have eaten at Lanna Thai Restaurant and it was very good!
My partner decided to have lunch here around 2 p.m. and there was only one other couple eating at this time, so we basically had the place to ourselves. We had steamed pork dumplings, pad thai with pork, and tom yum soup with chicken. All of it was delicious! The prices are really reasonable and the staff was super friendly. The dining area is fairly small, but the way the tables are laid out makes each individual seating area feel well spaced out. Additionally the staff all wore masks which made us feel very safe.
The staff was very attentive and our water glasses were always kept full. It’s a little thing, but I have a soft spot in my heart for restaurants that never make you wait for water. I think it’s one of those subtle things that communicates care and pride in the service.
Next time we go in, I will definitely try some of the other menu items. The deserts looked particularly interesting, especially the mango sticky rice!
I would definitely recommend that Shawnee and Lenexa residents give Lanna Thai Restaurant a try. It’s nice to have this kind of quality food in our community and we should...
Read moreService was outstanding, very clean inside! Lots of different curry and rice options. You can also pick how hot you want your food. The options are Mild, Medium, Hot and Thai Hot. As a lover of spicy things, please be careful with yourself if you can't handle the heat. The hot option is very spicy but for spicy lovers like myself you will understand how much fun it is to eat here. I will have to come back another day and try the Thai Hot which is the hottest level that they have.
I ordered the Pineapple Fried Rice with chicken and it was fabulous! Each chunk of cashews and chicken along with the pineapple chunks made the spiciness an adventure. I also ordered Thai Iced Coffee. It was a little sweet for my tastes, I was more focused on my water because of the spiciness of my food, but it was still nice to sip on. Bonus points for my server, she asked if I wanted a to-go cup because I couldn't finish it.
My husband ordered the Chicken Peanut Salad and the first thing he said was that he never thought he would say a salad smelled so good. He devoured the whole thing in one sitting.
Definitely coming back! I love a good authentic...
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