5 RCA-winning Restaurants Rewriting the Thai Dining Experience

Across Australia, a new wave of Chefs is rewriting the rules of Thai cuisine with bold creativity and a deep respect for tradition. These culinary trailblazers are fusing native Australian ingredients with the vibrant, aromatic foundations of Thai cooking - think wattleseed in massaman curry, lemon myrtle in green papaya salad, or charred kangaroo paired with tamarind and chilli.

The result is a flavour journey that’s both familiar and unexpected, honouring Thailand’s rich culinary heritage while carving out a distinctively local voice. Gone are cookie-cutter pad Thais; in their place are refined, adventurous plates that celebrate texture, balance and contrast.

Whether it is street food reimagined or royal-style dishes brought into a modern context, these Chefs are shifting perceptions and delighting diners with every nuanced bite. It’s Thai food, but not as you know it - fresh, fearless and unmistakably Australian in its expression.

Here is a snapshot of delicious Readers’ Choice Award-winning Thai dining destination to put on your radar, as voted by you!

Perched by the glistening waters of Bulcock Beach in Caloundra, Wung Nam Thai Water Palace offers an elegant escape into the heart of Thailand. With its rich timber features, golden Buddha statues and serene coastal views, the atmosphere hums with warmth and tranquillity. Whether dining indoors or alfresco on the breezy terrace, guests are treated to vibrant dishes layered with bold, aromatic flavours.

 

From tender Crying Tiger beef to rich roasted duck curry and crunchy coconut King prawns, each plate is a celebration of tradition and taste. The aromas of lemongrass, chilli and fresh herbs fill the air, promising a sensory journey. Ideal for long, lazy lunches or sunset dinners, Wung Nam invites you to slow down and savour every bite in an enchanting, seaside setting.

Tucked away in the heart of Grafton, Annola Thai Restaurant delivers a soulful journey through Thailand’s vibrant flavours and aromas. Step inside to find a warm, welcoming space infused with the scent of lemongrass, garlic and spice, where traditional Thai hospitality meets modern comfort. 

 

Dishes are crafted with love and authenticity - fragrant curries, sizzling stir-fries and fresh herbs that awaken the senses. Each plate bursts with colour and balance, from silky pad Thai to bold green curry and aromatic coconut soups. Whether you’re sharing a slow lunch or settling in for a relaxed dinner, Annola Thai offers an experience that nourishes both heart and appetite.

Perched by the ocean’s edge, At Harbour Thai Restaurant in Shellharbour delivers a feast for the senses, where coastal breezes meet the fragrant allure of Thai cuisine. Dishes are vibrant and authentic — from velvety green curries to sizzling stir-fries laced with garlic and Thai basil - each bite is a celebration of balance and boldness.

 

Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning water views, perfect for lingering over a plate of crispy soft-shell crab or red duck coconut curry with lychees, pineapple and tomato. Whether dining with loved ones or enjoying a romantic evening, this seaside gem blends heartfelt hospitality with the vibrant soul of Thailand.

Tucked away in a charming arcade in Belmont, The Elephant Tusk invites guests into a warm, tranquil world of Thai hospitality. Soft lighting, rich red drapes and statues surrounded by lush greenery create a space that feels both elegant and intimate. Aromas of lemongrass, coconut and spice drift from the kitchen, setting the stage for a vibrant feast.

 

From velvety choo chee to creamy green curry, there’s a dish to entice all palates – think slow-cooked lamb massaman with coconut cream, potatoes, cashews, onions and shallots. Whether it’s a romantic evening or a relaxed night with friends, The Elephant Tusk offers an authentic, soul-warming Thai experience that lingers long after the last bite.

Nestled in the coastal charm of Kingscliff, Mahsuri Thai is a sensory escape where the warmth of Thai hospitality meets vibrant culinary artistry. Lantern-lit and lush with tropical greenery, the ambience evokes the magic of a Balinese villa fused with Thai soul. Traditional aromas drift from the kitchen, promising dishes that ignite the palate and stir the senses.

 

From rich, velvety curries to wok-tossed delights alive with heat and freshness, each plate is a celebration of balance and boldness. Mahsuri Thai isn’t just a meal - it’s an experience, where every detail, from the vibrant plating to the welcoming service, is thoughtfully curated to transport diners to the heart of Thailand.