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Thai Basil on Walcot Street brings the vibrant, authentic flavours of Thailand to Bath, and it does so with incredible finesse. We visited recently and were blown away by the variety and quality of the dishes. It is not our first time and neither will it be our last.
Bath is already known for its many Thai restaurants choices. You can find both national chains including Gibbling Squid, Thaikhun and Rosa’s Thai Thai Basil as well as local independent restaurants like our favourites Thai Balcony, Salathai, Charm Thai , Yum Yum Thai in the centre. Located slightly off the centre of Bath, on Walcot Street is Thai Basil.
We come here as it is less busy and for the free parking across the road just outside of the restaurant. The free roadside parking on Walcot Street is only available in the evening. If you are not familiar with Walcot Street, it is a lively, eclectic stretch known for its artistic and bohemian vibe. Often called the city’s “artisan quarter,” it’s lined with unique, independent shops, galleries, cafes, and eateries that give it a distinct character compared to Bath’s more traditional Georgian architecture and historical landmarks.
With a mix of vintage shops, craft stores, and cozy pubs, Walcot Street offers a charming blend of old and new, making it a favourite spot for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of Bath’s creative spirit.
What we ordered
We started with the deep-fried soft shell crab som tam from the special menu. The soft shell crab was perfectly crispy and golden, complemented beautifully by the fresh, tangy papaya salad. Each bite of the salad, with its blend of fresh chilli, green beans, green papaya, tomatoes, and groundnuts, had a balance of textures and flavors. The lime juice added just the right amount of zest, lifting the dish and pairing well with the richness of the crab.
Our next dish was an off-the-menu treat: stir-fried morning glory (water spinach). We had to ask and check with the chef for this dish. It really depends on the availability of the key ingredient, fresh Thai Morning Glory Ong Choi.. This classic Thai green vegetable was cooked with garlic and a touch of chilli in soy and fish sauce, highlighting the natural crunch and flavours of the greens. It was a delightful, lighter contrast to the other rich dishes on our table.
For the other main course, we had the Panang Gai, a Thai red curry with chicken. The curry was luxuriously creamy with a thick coconut milk base, carrying a beautifully rounded spice level and a subtle sweetness. Kaffir lime leaves added a fragrant, citrusy note, making each spoonful both comforting and complex. This was perfect with our side of steamed jasmine rice and sticky rice, which absorbed the curry’s flavors wonderfully.
The combination of dishes provided a rich, well-rounded Thai dining experience. Each dish had its own distinctive personality, making it easy to share and enjoy the variety. Thai Basil’s cozy atmosphere, with friendly service and a comfortable ambiance, added to the experience. For anyone looking for genuine Thai flavors in Bath, Thai Basil is a must-try, especially for adventurous diners who want to try dishes off the regular menu!
