Chang Thai Kitchen — Restaurant in Toms River

Chang Thai Kitchen: A Hidden Gem for Thai Cuisine in Toms River

Updated: April 10, 2024

Chang Thai Kitchen continues to prove why it’s the best Thai restaurant in the Toms River area. After years of enjoying their takeout, I finally had the chance to dine in, and the experience exceeded expectations.

Dining Experience

The restaurant offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with spacious dining rooms and ambient music that keeps the noise level comfortable. The service was exceptional—attentive without being intrusive. Our server checked in at just the right intervals, ensuring every guest was happy. About five minutes after customers had a chance to try their dishes, she returned with thoughtful follow-ups, offering recommendations and answering questions. It’s the kind of hospitality that elevates a dining experience.

A unique moment of the evening involved an older couple (the wife, 64, and the husband, 71) who struck up casual conversation and even joined me at my bench seating for a bit. Unexpected, but an amusing and memorable touch to the night!

The Food

I ordered the Duck Rainbow, a vibrant dish featuring half a crispy duck with cherry tomatoes, onions, peppers, and red curry. I requested it Thai spicy, and it delivered beautifully—a perfect balance of heat and rich flavors. Alongside it, I had the fried dumplings, which I believe were made with chicken thigh. They were crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and exactly as they should be.

For drinks, the mango beverages were made with real mango, adding a refreshing contrast to the spice of the meal. The portion sizes were generous, except for one small gripe—the coconut rice. At $3 per container, I expected it to be packed full, but it was barely half-filled. A minor letdown, but not a dealbreaker.

Takeout &Leftovers

Chang Thai Kitchen has long been our go-to takeout spot, especially since it’s close to where my wife works. One thing I’ve always appreciated is their willingness to provide a small container of extra spice so I can adjust my heat level to my liking—an excellent touch for those who enjoy authentic Thai heat.

The leftovers? Outstanding. The next day, the Duck Rainbow seemed even spicier, and when paired with jasmine rice, it made for a fantastic meal.

Final Verdict

Chang Thai Kitchen delivers incredible flavors, outstanding service, and a menu so extensive that you could dine here for years and still find new favorites. The Duck Rainbow with red curry is a must-try, as are the eggplant stir-fry dishes. Whether dining in or ordering takeout, this spot belongs at the top of your must-visit list for Thai cuisine...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Chang Thai Kitchen , and I must say it was an extraordinary experience that transported me straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand. From the moment I stepped inside, the ambiance, attentive service, and, above all, the exceptional cuisine left an indelible impression on me.

As an avid fan of Thai cuisine, I was delighted to find that Chang Thai Kitchen exceeded my expectations in every way. The menu was thoughtfully curated, offering a wide range of authentic dishes that showcased the diverse flavors of Thailand. Whether you're a fan of spicy curries, fragrant stir-fries, or tantalizing street food, this restaurant has it all.

The attention to detail in each dish was evident from the first bite. The vibrant colors, aromatic herbs, and the perfect balance of flavors created a symphony on my palate. The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients was evident in every dish, elevating the dining experience to new heights.

The service at Chang Thai Kitchen was exceptional. The staff members were knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, making sure that every aspect of our dining experience was met with care. Their expertise in recommending dishes and explaining the flavors and origins of each dish added an educational element to the meal, enhancing our appreciation for Thai cuisine.

The restaurant itself was beautifully designed, with a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflected the essence of Thailand.

Overall, Chang Thai Kitchen is a true gem among Thai restaurants. It combines authentic flavors, impeccable service, and an inviting atmosphere, all resulting in an unforgettable culinary journey to the heart of Thailand. Whether you're a passionate foodie or simply looking for a remarkable dining experience, I highly recommend paying a visit to Chang Thai Kitchen. You won't be...

Six years ago, I reviewed this location when it was known as Siam Spice. Now under new ownership and christened Chang Thai Kitchen, I felt compelled to revisit and update my opinion. Unfortunately, my recent experiences haven't quite met my expectations.

The curry, usually a star of the show, falls short. It lacks the depth and complexity I've come to associate with well-crafted Thai curries. While decent, it's thin and underwhelming, especially considering the $18.50 price tag. In fact, I managed to create a more satisfying version at home using pantry staples from Hmart.

I understand some prefer the convenience of dining out, and sourcing specific ingredients isn't for everyone. However, considering their unique position as the sole Thai option in town, the current offering feels like a missed opportunity. I can't shake the feeling they might be dialing down the effort or relying on their position to justify the price and quality.

Here's hoping:

Chang Thai Kitchen has the potential to be a local favorite, but the curry needs significant improvement. Deeper flavor profiles, richer broth bases, and a focus on authenticity would do wonders. Additionally, adjusting portion sizes or pricing to better reflect the current offering could improve value perception.

Overall, while promising, Chang Thai Kitchen needs to refine its culinary game to truly win over discerning Thai...