Fukuoka is a vibrant city in southern Japan that is a hidden gem for food lovers. This culinary paradise offers Thai travelers the perfect mix of traditional Japanese dishes and familiar Thai flavors. Whether you crave fresh seafood, savory ramen, or a spicy Thai twist, the city has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through Fukuoka’s best local eateries and Thai-friendly restaurants, ensuring you experience the city’s unique food culture with a taste of home. So, are you ready to explore? Let’s dive into the ultimate Fukuoka Thai food gourmet tour.
Why is Fukuoka a Thai food lover’s paradise?
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Fukuoka is famous for its rich food culture, which includes fresh seafood, delicious ramen, and a bustling street food scene. Unlike Tokyo or Osaka, the city offers a more relaxed, intimate dining experience, making it perfect for food exploration.
The local dining culture is also a significant draw for visitors. The city boasts a variety of dining experiences, from traditional food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you’re craving a casual street food adventure or a sophisticated gastronomic journey, Fukuoka has something to offer for everyone.
The city’s chefs take great pride in showcasing these ingredients, crafting culinary masterpieces that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Thai cuisine holds a unique appeal for travelers. Gourmet Thai restaurants in Fukuoka access local food directly from Thailand. The city’s emphasis on bold seasonings and umami-rich ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that resonate with Thai palates.
Top authentic Thai restaurants in Fukuoka
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Fukuoka satiates travelers’ taste buds worldwide with a delightful array of international cuisines. But you’re in luck if you’re yearning for Thailand’s bold and aromatic flavors. This city boasts several exceptional Thai restaurants where you can savor authentic dishes from talented Thai chefs.
So, let’s discover some of Fukuoka’s best Thai dining experiences. Here are five of some of the best dining spots, each with a unique charm, serving authentic Thai flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
CoCo-Nuts Fukuoka Cafe & Dining: tropical vibes and tasty treats
- Address: 5-2-30 Nishijin, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka
- Access: 4-minute walk from Nishijin Station
- Phone number: 092-832-5888
- Reservation: Available on their official website.
- Payment: Credit card, QR code payment accepted (no electronic money payment)
- Open (Days & Hours) Mon., Wed-Sun. 11:30 – 15:30 | 17:00 – 22:00 (last order 21:30)
- Closed Tuesdays
- Seating: 36 seats
- Smoking All seats are non-smoking There is a smoking area outside the restaurant (only available at night)
- Other information Has vegetarian dishes Happy Hour (every day from 17:00 – 19:00)
Escape to a tropical paradise at CoCo-Nuts Fukuoka Cafe & Dining. This charming cafe boasts a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, with lush greenery and vibrant decor that will transport you to a beachside haven. Their menu features a delightful fusion of Thai and international flavors, perfect for a casual lunch or a leisurely afternoon with friends.
CoCo-Nuts also offers tempting desserts, including their popular Mango Sticky Rice and refreshing Coconut Ice Cream. With its friendly service and laid-back ambiance, CoCo-Nuts is an excellent spot to unwind and enjoy a taste of Thailand in Fukuoka, Japan.
Hakata Kaomangai Bankokuya: A Hainanese Chicken Rice Haven
- Address: ARKCUBE 102, 1-3-5 Daimyō, Chūō-ku, Fukuoka
- Access: 10-minute walk from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station
- Phone number: 092-406-7453
- Email: bangkok.ya.kaz@gmail.com
- Reservation: Available | Call or email to reserve seats.
- Payment: Credit cards not accepted; transportation-related electronic money（Suica, etc.）, QR code payment available (PayPay, etc.)
- Open (Days & Hours) Mon-Tue., Thur-Sun. 11:30 – 21:00
- Closed Wednesdays | Closed during the winter months (December through April-May)
- Seating: 4 seats
- Smoking All seats are non-smoking
- Other information
It’s a very small restaurant, so it’s better to make a reservation.
Note: this shop is closed during the winter season and instead operates at its location in Hakuba.
Hakata Kaomangai Bankokuya specializes in Hainanese chicken rice, served with fragrant rice and a delectable dipping sauce. This simple yet satisfying meal is a testament to the culinary connections between Thailand and its neighboring countries.
Their khao man gai is prepared with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each element is perfectly cooked. The chicken is poached to retain its juiciness, while the rice is infused with the flavors of ginger and garlic. The accompanying dipping sauce, a chili, garlic, and ginger blend, adds a tangy kick that complements the dish beautifully. With its focus on quality and simplicity, Hakata Kaomangai Bankokuya offers a delicious and affordable taste of Thai-influenced cuisine.
Gamelan Dee Fukuokashichuoku Daimyo Ten
- Address: Minamikaze Bldg. B1F, 1-1-20 Daimyō, Chūō-ku, Fukuoka
- Access: 7-minute walk from Nishitetsu Fukuoka Station | 9-minute walk from Tenjin Subway Station
- Phone number: 050-5868-2122
- Reservation: Available | Reserve via phone, Tabelog, Gurunavi or HOT PEPPER
- Payment: Credit card, electronic payment available
- Table Charges: No charge if you order a drink per person | If no drink is ordered, 450 JPY per person
- Open (Days & Hours) Mon-Fri. 11:30 – 15:30 (last order 15:00) | 17:30 – 23:00 (last order: food 22:00, drinks 22:30) Sat-Sun., public holidays 11:30 – 16:00 (last order 15:30) | 17:30 – 23:00 (last order: food 22:00, drinks 22:30)
- Seating: 60 seats
- Smoking: All seats are non-smoking Separate smoking room available
- Other information Take-out available
- Official website
Gamelan Dee Fukuokashichuoku Daimyo Ten, located in the trendy Daimyo district of Fukuoka, serves authentic Thai cuisine amidst a captivating ambiance. The Thai government has certified the restaurant as “Thailand Select,” which serves authentic Thai cuisine with a unique Japanese twist.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by the warm glow of traditional lanterns and the soothing sounds of gamelan music. The restaurant’s intricate wood carvings and vibrant artwork create an immersive cultural experience.
Gamelan Dee’s menu features a diverse selection of Thai dishes, highlighting the rich flavors and spices of the archipelago. You can begin your culinary journey with their signature Nasi Goreng, a fragrant fried rice dish with vegetables, meat, and a fried egg.
Gamelan Dee’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond the food. With its enchanting atmosphere, authentic cuisine, and dedication to showcasing Indonesian culture, Gamelan Dee offers a truly unique and memorable Thai dining experience in Fukuoka.
Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Tenjin: A Hidden Gem for Curry Enthusiasts
- Address: 1F 3-4-28 Tenjin, Chūō-ku, Fukuoka
- Access: 1-minute walk from Tenjin 3-Chome Station Bus Stop
- Phone number: 080-2798-4450
- Reservation: Available | Also possible to reserve outside official business hours
- Payment: Credit card, electronic money payment available
- Open Days & Hours Mon-Fri. 11:30 – 14:30 (last order 14:00) | 18:00 – 00:00 (last order: food 23:00, drinks 23:30) Saturdays 18:00 – 00:00 (last order: food 23:00, drinks 23:30)
- Closed Sundays, national holidays
- Seating: 40 seats
- Smoking Smoking allowed
Hotel Oriental Express Fukuoka Tenjin is a true gem in Fukuoka’s Thai culinary landscape. This unassuming restaurant may not be flashy, but it more than makes up for it with its exceptional curries which are a testament to the depth and complexity of Thai flavors.
Osha: Thai cuisine with a modern twist
- Address: 1-23-21 Ohashi, Minami-ku, Fukuoka
- Access: 5-min walk from Nishitetsu Ohashi Station
- Phone number: 092-551-2175
- Reservation: Available | Reserve via phone call or Gurunavi
- Payment: Credit cards accepted, electronic money and QR code payments not accepted
- Open (Days & Hours) Mon., Wed-Fri. 11:30 – 14:30 (last order 14:30) | 18:00 – 23:00 (last order: food 22:30, drinks 23:00) Sat-Sun., public holidays 11:30 – 15:00 (last order 15:00) | 18:00 – 23:00 (last order: food 22:30, drinks 23:00)
- Closed Tuesdays
- Seating: 40 seats
- Smoking All seats are non-smoking
Osha, located in the heart of Fukuoka, offers a contemporary take on classic Thai cuisine. This stylish restaurant boasts a chic and modern ambiance, creating a sophisticated setting for a memorable dining experience. Osha’s menu features a creative fusion of traditional Thai flavors and contemporary culinary techniques, resulting in dishes that are both visually appealing and bursting with authentic tastes.
Final thoughts: a culinary journey to remember
Food is a universal language that connects cultures and enhances travel experiences. You can embrace new flavors, try local specialties, and explore beyond your comfort zone. Exploring the diverse flavors of Thailand in Fukuoka is a culinary adventure waiting to be discovered.
Visiting Fukuoka, Japan, allows you to savor a delectable variety of exquisite Thai flavors. From cozy family-run eateries to vibrant restaurants and bustling food stalls, the city offers many options for experiencing authentic local and Thai cuisine. The list of best eateries mentioned here barely scratches the surface of Fukuoka’s vibrant Thai culinary scene. For more information about delicious dining experiences in Japan, read our other articles at Umami bites.
