Busaba
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
Best Thai restaurant in London
The "Busaba" in London is a well-known restaurant that offers modern Thai cuisine in a vibrant and accessible atmosphere. It is part of the Busaba chain, which started in 1999 with its first location in Soho and has since expanded to several locations throughout the city. The restaurant's concept is inspired by the street markets of Bangkok and aims to present the flavors and dining culture of Thailand in an urban, contemporary setting. It caters to a wide audience—from tourists seeking an authentic meal to locals looking for a quick lunch, as well as groups who appreciate communal dining—and has established itself as a staple in London's gastronomic scene.
Authentic Thai cuisine Soho
Culinarily, Busaba places great emphasis on fresh ingredients and traditional Thai flavors that are often meant for sharing, in the spirit of Asian dining culture. A highlight is the "Pad Thai," a dish of stir-fried rice noodles served with succulent shrimp or tender chicken, renowned for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy—a classic that receives regular acclaim. Also popular is the "Green Chicken Curry," a creamy curry with intense herbs and spices served with fragrant jasmine rice, showcasing the depth of Thai culinary art. For starters, the "Thai Calamari" stands out, featuring crispy fried squid rings with a sweet and sour dipping sauce that provides a fresh and light beginning to the meal. For a sweet finish, the "Banana Fritters," a dessert of fried bananas drizzled with honey and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, offer a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch.
Vibrant atmosphere in London restaurants
The ambiance of Busaba is modern and stylish, with a design that promotes communal dining. Characteristic are the large wooden communal tables that create a sociable environment, even if they may feel unusual for some guests. The open kitchen allows a view of the preparation process, emphasizing the freshness of the dishes and giving diners a sense of being in the midst of the action. The decor is simple yet thoughtful, featuring warm lighting and subtle Asian accents that foster a relaxed mood. Especially on busy days, the restaurant fills with a lively buzz of voices, reflecting the energy of Bangkok, while the window seats offer a view of the bustling activity of London outside.
Discover traditional Thai flavors
The service is often described as friendly and efficient, with staff eager to provide guests with a pleasant experience, although it can sometimes become hectic during peak times. The drink menu complements the dishes with Asian-inspired options such as "Mango Lassi," a refreshing yogurt drink that balances the spiciness of the food, or creative cocktails that enhance the meal. Busaba takes pride in offering a large portion of its menu as plant-based, making it appealing to vegetarians and vegans as well. Additionally, it provides takeaway and delivery options that cater to the needs of an urban lifestyle.
