26 Thai Kitchen & Bar (Midtown)

"Sitting in what looks like a converted house, 26 Thai in Midtown is the original location of this well-loved, local Thai franchise. And it's a popular hotspot for good reason. Inside, there’s a chill yet stylish vibe—so you can have a low-key date night lounging in plush green velvet chairs or a solo dinner at the always-popping bar. The huge patio is great for gathering with friends, whether you’re hitting up Happy Hour (2-6pm, with crispy spring rolls for $8) or grabbing a casual, filling lunch with coworkers. The menu is stacked with delicious options, but one of the best orders is the basil chicken, with minced chicken, basil, chili, and a fried egg on top. Or go for the tasty, spicy tom yum, loaded with spicy Thai chili, mushrooms, and kaffir lime leaf. Food Rundown photo credit: Jacinta Howard Tom Yum Soup The tom yum makes a great rainy day soup. It’s packed with bold, tangy flavors from the lemongrass and kaffir lime leaf, with a spicy kick from the Thai chili. The mushrooms add an earthy depth, balancing the zest and heat that’s like a nice kick in the face, especially if you’re stuffy. video credit: Jacinta Howard Basil Chicken One of the best things on the menu, the basil chicken is full of fresh, herbal flavors with a noticeable heat from the Thai chili. The minced chicken is savory, and the fried egg on top adds a rich finish. video credit: Jacinta Howard Signature Wings You get five wings that are double-fried for extra crispiness while keeping the inside juicy. They’re tossed in Thai chili and sesame seasoning, giving them a delicious mix of heat and nuttiness. Singha Thai Lager If you like beer, get this. The lager is crisp and light and pairs well with crunchy spring rolls or crispy signature wings. Panang Curry Another winner on the menu, this curry features tender green beans and fragrant kaffir lime leaf in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s served with jasmine rice, which soaks up the roasted chili's heat, balancing out the smooth coconut flavors." - Jacinta Howard

"Deborah VanTrece, chef and owner of Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours, wants small businesses to survive the financial crisis caused by the pandemic and frequents restaurants she loves, like 26 Thai Kitchen. Open in the former MuLan Chinese restaurant space on Juniper Street in Midtown, the menu features comforting noodle dishes, dumplings, curries, and other popular Thai dishes, like tom yum soup, see klong moo (barbecue pork), and drunken noodles. 26 Thai also has locations in Buckhead and at Battery Atlanta. A fourth location opens soon in Brookhaven. Order online for pick-up. Masks required. — Deborah VanTrece, chef and owner of Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours" - Eater Staff