Kao Thai Cuisine

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.