Emerald Thai Restaurant: Authentic Flavors and Culinary Delights in Lakeland, TN

I heard good things about the place however, I was a bit disappointed after visiting. I’m a big fan of Asian food altogether, so maybe I’m a bit picky too. We started with a papaya salad and a crispy fried fish. The fish was extremely good with a perfect crunch, and seasoning. The salad was too much infused with a strong fish sauce ( or, something similar). It didn’t go well in to our palette! In the main course I ordered indian style chili chicken which was extremely hot and spicy ( I’m an Indian and I eat hot and spicy food regularly) . But still that was quite spicy for me. There was no other flavor profile to it. It was served with steamed rice. My other friends got drunken noodles and pad Thai - both the dishes were mild and pretty decent.

Our family loves Thai food. So, I write this review with mixed feelings. I wanted to love it, but our experience was a bit mixed. We ordered the Spring Rolls and Chucken Satay as appetizers. Both were very good. However, for the price, the portions were a bit small. For main entrees, I order the Spicy Lemongrass and my wife got the Pad Thai. The Pad Thai was one of the best tasting versions of this dish we've ever eaten! The ingredients were well balanced and it was moist (many times it comes out dry at a lot of places). However, I love lemongrass and had high hopes for my dish. I got it with beef, and while there was nothing wrong with it exactly, it was still disappointing. With that name, I fully expected a light, fragrant, full-flavored lemongrass dish. Instead, the lemongrass was almost non-existent. So, the dish was a bit one dimensional and almost heavy. It was good, but not above average. The service was pretty good. But the sweetened tea was so very sweet. Overall, we may try it again if we are in the area, but we will not drive 30 minutes out of our way for this experience again as we did this first visit.

I remember first time I been here was 5 year ago before I moved to Memphis. Their food was so good that they became one of the reasons that I want to move here. They are totally the best Thai restaurant in the city. Be aware when you order spicy, because it’s real Thai Spicy.

The food was really good and flavorful, friendly staff. Food came out hot and relatively quickly. Restrooms could use some updating and the clear plastic cups for drinks looked dingy from being used so much and not replaced.

The only Thai restaurant I go in Memphis! Tried three different curry’s…the best was the emerald or red curry! Also the coconut soup was divine. Make sure to ask for the sticky mango rice dish for dessert you will not be disappointed. It was a warm and refreshing treat!!

I have Celiac’s Disease and they are always so accommodating to gluten free! I’ve never gotten glutened/sick while eating here. Family owned and operated . Nothing fancy, just really delicious, affordable Thai food. Truly our favorite spot for Thai in the greater Memphis area, hands down!