By Dylan Bailey
As the Shrimp Fest takes place, the streets of downtown Fernandina are flooded with crowds, traffic, and the sweltering summer heat. However, for those seeking a delectable escape from the festival frenzy, Ahan Thai Kitchen emerges as a respite. With its longstanding reputation and rave reviews, this restaurant promises a tasty experience.
Ahan Thai Kitchen has been a staple for quite some time, quietly building a loyal following. This unassuming establishment has managed to garner an impressive 4.3 stars out of 5 from a staggering 508 reviews on Google. Impressive!
As I stepped through the doors of Ahan Thai Kitchen, I was greeted by a clean, well-maintained dining room. The interior features charming wooden dividers, creating a sense of intimacy and warmth. While the seating may be mildly cramped, the overall ambiance is very comfortable.
Ahan Thai’s menu is a treasure trove of delights. From soups and curries to noodle dishes and salads, the options are seemingly endless. What truly impressed me was the inclusion of a dedicated vegan menu, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to catering to diverse dietary preferences.
I decided to start with the highly recommended chicken curry puffs. These deep-fried pastry puffs, stuffed with a savory blend of chicken, curry powder, onions, and potatoes, proved to be an absolute home run. The flaky exterior gave way to a burst of flavors, expertly balanced and utterly delightful. The accompanying cucumber salad, with its refreshing tang, provided the perfect counterpoint to the richness of the puffs.
No Thai meal is complete without a refreshing beverage, and the Thai iced tea did not disappoint. This sweet, creamy concoction, with its iconic orange hue, was a true treat. It was so indulgent that it could have easily passed for a dessert.
For my main course, I couldn’t resist the allure of the stir-fried black pepper dish. Served with jasmine rice, bell peppers, onions, and green onions, this entree allowed me to choose my preferred protein. Opting for the beef, I was met with a flavor bomb that left my taste buds tingling. A word of caution: I ordered the medium spice option, and it was strong. Not bad at all and made for a memorable dish, but be aware if you have any spice intolerance.
Despite the expansive menu, Ahan Thai managed to maintain an impressive level of consistency in the quality of its dishes. Each item I sampled, from the appetizer to the main course, showcased remarkable attention to detail and delivered a truly satisfying dining experience.
Moreover, the attentive service I received only added to the overall enjoyment of my visit. The staff was friendly and prompt, making the entire experience all the more memorable.
Whether you’re a local in search of a reliable Thai favorite or a visitor, Ahan Thai Kitchen is a destination that should not be missed. With its consistently excellent food, warm ambiance, and attentive service, the restaurant offers a wide range of different options. Even when the Shrimp Fest crowds dissipate, there’ll always be tasty food at Ahan Thai Kitchen.
Ahan Thai Kitchen
Website: www.ahanthaifernandina.com
Address: 474260 E. State Road 200, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034
Great article Dylan. You captured in a much more eloquent way everything I’ve tried to explain to people about this quaint little Thai food spot over the years. The best!!