Kao Thai Cuisine

About

Kao Thai Cuisine has been delighting locals and visitors alike in Columbia since 2018. The restaurant’s authentic Thai dishes began attracting attention at its original location on Senate St., and even more so since 2023 at its prime location on Main.

Steeped in owner Sunshine Cobb’s family history, the enchanting restaurant showcases Thai dishes that are commonly found on the streets of Bangkok. The menu also provides a mix of creative pan-Asian and Asian-American fusion dishes. This is a fresh and exciting culinary adventure in the heart of downtown Columbia.

Kao Thai Cuisine prides itself on offering a dining experience rooted in traditional Thai culinary heritage, combined with a modern approach to flavors and ingredients.

Conveniently located near the iconic Columbia Museum of Art and just a short walk from the bustling Main Street District, this restaurant serves as an ideal dining destination for those exploring the vibrant cultural and historic landmarks of the area. On Saturdays, it’s the perfect lunch destination after a morning of exploration at Soda City Market.

If looking to broaden your dining escapades while visiting Columbia, Kao Thai Cuisine is an ideal choice for your next culinary adventure.

Vibe

The restaurant’s clean, sophisticated facade in the middle of downtown Columbia blends seamlessly with its city surroundings. Large windows and colorful outdoor decorations invite passersby to peek in or grab an al fresco table right in front.

Inside, earthy tones and soft lighting provide a cozy atmosphere for an intimate dinner or gathering with friends. Bamboo adorns the length of the bar, which is complemented by decorative wood ceiling displays. TVs to the side of the bar allow sports fans to enjoy Thai eats with a side of adrenaline.

The atmosphere at Kao Thai Cuisine is lively yet intimate, making it the perfect setting for couples, families, or groups of friends. The minimalist yet stylish furnishings offer several seating options, including the well-appointed bar, small booths, tables, and the outdoor patio.

The restaurant’s setting in the vibrant downtown makes it an unmissable stop for any Columbia, SC vacation.

Kao Thai Cuisine: Menu & Drinks

The popular downtown restaurant excels in showcasing a diverse range of Thai street food and traditional Thai dishes. The menu artfully provides a balance of flavors, ranging from salty, sweet, spicy, sour, and creamy.

Among the standout dishes is the Panang Curry, a luxurious dish rich with coconut milk, bell peppers, snow peas, and a perfectly spiced red curry base, served with your selection of protein.

Melding the essence of South Carolina with Asian fusion, diners can enjoy Kao’s version of K.F.C., Kao Fried Chicken, or their unctuous garlic shrimp and grits is red curry gravy.

Along with its traditional taste of Bangkok and beyond, the restaurant also takes pride in its craft cocktail offerings. The Lychee Mule offers a playful and refreshing exotic twist to the classic Moscow mule, while the Mapaw Mojito and Thai Tea Martini also pay homage to traditional libations. There are also non-alcoholic treats on Kao’s cocktail menu, along with an extensive wine list of reds and whites, craft and Asian beers, as well as Sake.

To top off your meal, be sure to ask about their seasonal dessert specials.

Dining at Kao Thai Cuisine while in Columbia is an invitation to explore the rich traditions of Thailand and pan-Asian cuisine. This is a definite destination for food enthusiasts during any visit to South Carolina’s capital.

Local Tips

Happy Hour specials are Monday through Thursday from 5:00-6:00 PM.
Weekday lunch hours are 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM; weekday dinner hours are 5 PM - 10 PM
Arrive early if you plan to dine during peak lunch or dinner hours.
The spice levels can be adjusted to your preference.
Parking is available nearby, but it may fill up quickly during events.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to Columbia, SC?

Situated in the heart of the Midlands region, 3 major interstates run through Columbia, SC (I-26, I-20, and I-77). This makes it an easy-to-access drive-to destination from anywhere on the Eastern corridor.

If you choose to fly, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) is located just eight miles from downtown and has more than 25 daily non-stop flights to 11 major cities, plus easy connections to over 400 destinations.

When is the best time to visit Columbia, SC?

The best times to visit Columbia, SC are hands down in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). This is when you can expect warm, sunny days and cool, breezy nights. If you are a fan of hot weather, then you may enjoy the area’s sultry summers. Not to worry, lake days at Lake Murray and backyard barbecues await. Winter is more mellow, with mild temps and fewer crowds, which is ideal for a quiet weekend getaway.

What are the top things to do in Columbia, SC?

Columbia, SC is a little city with a lot of personality and plenty of attractions for the whole family to enjoy. Among the top attractions are:

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden – Not only is this a top Columbia attraction, it is one of the largest mid-sized zoos in the country and South Carolina’s leading must-visit attraction.
Congaree National Park – With towering trees creating a lush forest canopy overhead, the park preserves the largest tract of remaining old-growth bottomland hardwood forests in the country. The park’s synchronous firefly habitat from mid-May to mid-June is so popular, be sure to get in on the vehicle pass lottery in advance.
Lake Murray – Located just west of the city, this Jewel of South Carolina offers 650 miles of shoreline and a wide range of outdoor fun, from swimming or boating to fishing, and water sports to private tours.
South Carolina State Museum – The state-of-the-art facility is housed within its largest artifact, the building itself, the historic 1894 Columbia Mill textile building.
USC – Williams-Brice Stadium: College sports fans flood in for big Gamecock games and tailgates. Dine out before the big game or enjoy tailgating. Tip: Pimento cheese, a South Carolina staple, is a must at any Gamecock tailgate.