Why Explore Thai Food in Chocolate Town?
Imagine, for a moment, stepping away from the rollercoaster highs and sugary depths of Hershey, Pennsylvania, and entering a world filled with the aromatic spices, vibrant colors, and tantalizing flavors of Thailand. It might seem like an unexpected pairing – chocolate kisses and fragrant curries – but Hershey is proving to be a culinary destination that goes far beyond its sweet beginnings. While the allure of chocolate remains strong, an exciting wave of diverse dining options is transforming this Pennsylvania town. And leading the charge is a collection of fantastic restaurants serving authentic and delicious Thai food. So, if you’re craving something a little different, something savory, spicy, and unforgettable, you’ve come to the right place. This guide is your passport to the best Thai culinary adventures Hershey has to offer.
Let’s be honest, after a day spent exploring the sweetest place on earth, indulging in chocolate-covered everything, your taste buds might be yearning for a different kind of excitement. Perhaps you’re craving something savory to balance the sweetness, something spicy to awaken your senses, or simply a fresh and flavorful change of pace. Beyond personal preferences, there’s a growing recognition that Hershey is evolving into a genuine foodie destination. Tourists and residents alike are actively seeking out diverse and high-quality dining experiences, and Thai cuisine is perfectly positioned to satisfy that demand.
It’s a chance to embrace the unexpected and discover a hidden gem in plain sight. It also offers a welcome option for anyone with dietary restrictions. Many Thai restaurants cater exceptionally well to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, providing a breadth of flavorful choices that can sometimes be limited elsewhere. So, whether you’re a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Hershey has something to offer your palate.
Uncovering The Thai Restaurants
Let’s dive into some of the best spots in Hershey to get your Thai food fix.
Siam Cuisine
First on our list is Siam Cuisine. Located on Chocolate Avenue, Siam Cuisine boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, decorated with traditional Thai artwork and comfortable seating. It is truly an enchanting escape. It’s the kind of place where you can relax and enjoy a leisurely meal with friends or family.
The menu is extensive, featuring all the classic Thai dishes you know and love, plus some intriguing regional specialties. Don’t miss their Pad Thai, widely regarded as one of the best in town, prepared with perfectly cooked noodles, a flavorful sauce, and generous portions of shrimp or chicken. Their green curry is also a standout, rich and creamy with just the right amount of spice. Lunch specials are an excellent value, offering smaller portions of their popular dishes at a lower price point. Prices at Siam Cuisine fall into the moderate range. What truly sets Siam Cuisine apart is their dedication to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic family recipes. The owners take pride in their heritage and it translates into every dish they create. Customers rave about the friendly service and the consistently delicious food.
Bangkok 52
Next up is Bangkok 52. Nestled a short drive from downtown Hershey, Bangkok 52 offers a more modern and contemporary dining experience. The interior is sleek and stylish, with dim lighting and comfortable booths. The atmosphere is more upscale than Siam Cuisine, making it a great option for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Bangkok 52 prides itself on its innovative menu, which features both traditional Thai dishes and creative fusion creations. While you’ll find familiar favorites like Tom Yum soup and Massaman curry, you’ll also discover unique dishes like their duck curry and crispy whole fish. They have a great selection of vegetarian options, and they’re always willing to customize dishes to accommodate dietary restrictions. Prices here are slightly higher than Siam Cuisine, reflecting the more upscale ambiance and innovative cuisine. However, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience are well worth the price. Customers often highlight the beautifully presented dishes and the attentive service. One aspect that truly distinguishes Bangkok 52 is their emphasis on presentation. Each dish is a work of art, meticulously plated and garnished to enhance the dining experience.
Thai Basil
Thai Basil is another must-try option, it offers a casual and vibrant dining experience. They’re located a bit outside the main Hershey area, making it a popular choice for locals. The restaurant’s interior is bright and colorful, with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Thai Basil’s strength is their affordable and delicious lunch specials, and the consistently great quality.
Their menu focuses on classic Thai dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their Pad See Ew and drunken noodles are highly recommended and will leave you wanting more. You can also try their crispy basil chicken, a true delight.
Recommendations For Your Thai Meal
Now that you know where to go, let’s talk about what to order. If you’re new to Thai food, Pad Thai is always a safe bet. This iconic dish features stir-fried rice noodles, shrimp or chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors.
For a richer and more complex flavor profile, try green curry. This creamy curry is made with green chili peppers, coconut milk, bamboo shoots, eggplant, and basil. It can be made with chicken, beef, or tofu, and it’s typically served with steamed rice. Red Curry has a similar base to Green Curry, but uses red chili peppers for a spicier and slightly sweeter flavour profile. If you’re looking for something warm and comforting, try Tom Yum soup. This hot and sour soup is made with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, chili peppers, and mushrooms. It’s incredibly flavorful and invigorating, perfect for a chilly day.
Don’t forget about appetizers! Spring rolls are a classic choice, filled with vegetables and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. If you like it spicy, try the satay skewers, grilled marinated chicken or beef served with peanut sauce. And for dessert, Mango Sticky Rice is a must-try. This simple but delicious dessert features sweet sticky rice topped with fresh mango slices and drizzled with coconut milk.
When ordering, be sure to pay attention to the spice levels. Thai food can be quite spicy, so it’s always a good idea to ask your server about the heat level of each dish. Most restaurants will allow you to customize the spice level to your liking, from mild to extra hot. Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or for dishes to be modified to suit your preferences. Many Thai restaurants are incredibly accommodating and want to ensure that you have a truly enjoyable dining experience.
For vegetarians and vegans, Thai food is a treasure trove of options. Many dishes can be easily adapted to be meat-free, and there are also plenty of dishes that are naturally vegetarian or vegan. Be sure to specify your dietary needs when ordering, and your server will be happy to guide you through the menu. Common ingredients for vegetarians include tofu, tempeh, and various vegetables.
The Authentic Thai Experience
Beyond the incredible food, Thai restaurants offer a glimpse into Thai culture and hospitality. Thai culture is known for its warmth, friendliness, and welcoming nature, and this is often reflected in the service at Thai restaurants. You’ll often be greeted with a smile and made to feel right at home.
While it’s not as common in smaller towns, some Thai restaurants may offer cooking classes, allowing you to learn how to prepare your favorite dishes at home. These classes are a great way to deepen your appreciation for Thai cuisine and impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary skills.
And of course, Hershey’s central location makes it easy to combine your Thai food adventure with other attractions. After a delicious meal, you can head to Hershey Park for a thrilling ride or visit Chocolate World for a sweet treat.
In Conclusion
Hershey, Pennsylvania, may be known as the sweetest place on earth, but it also offers a surprising and satisfying culinary experience beyond chocolate. The Thai restaurants in Hershey provide a welcome alternative to the traditional tourist fare, offering a diverse range of flavors and dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From Siam Cuisine’s authentic family recipes to Bangkok 52’s innovative fusion creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So, next time you’re in Hershey, take a break from the chocolate and embark on a flavorful journey to Thailand. Explore the vibrant spices, the aromatic herbs, and the friendly faces that make Thai cuisine so special. You might be surprised at what you discover! The combination of Hershey and Thai food may seem unexpected, but it’s a delightful pairing that’s sure to leave you wanting more. This article showcases that Thai food in Hershey, PA, is readily available and waiting to be explored.
