Isaan Thai Restaurant

Review of Isaan Thai Restaurant – Doha We visited Isaan Thai Restaurant at the Grand Hyatt Doha for a Valentine’s Day dinner, opting for their special four-course menu. The variety of dishes offered was well thought out, featuring a good mix of flavors and textures. The evening started with a welcome aperitif, which was enjoyable, though it was disappointing that they couldn’t provide a second one when requested. The appetizers were promising, with crispy prawns and GAI YANG BBQ (grilled chicken and vegetables), followed by the flavorful GIEOW NAM GAI soup (chicken wonton with pak choi). The main course was the highlight—PLA TOO NAM PLA (sea bass), NEANG KAREE GOONG TEMPURA (shrimp curry), and NUEA WAGYU YANG NAM HIM JAEW (grilled wagyu beef), all prepared to a high standard. However, the dessert—strawberry ice cream with pumpkin and steamed layer cake—fell short. With the wealth of exceptional Thai desserts available, this selection did not match the level of the preceding courses for my expectations but it was good and still enjoyable. One noticeable shortcoming was the service. Since we don’t drink alcohol, we stuck to juices, water, and soft drinks, which were included in the meal. Unfortunately, the staff lacked attentiveness, and we had to actively request our water refills, sometimes waiting over 30 minutes with empty glasses. The most disappointing and inappropriate moment came when we were leaving the restaurant. Despite dining in a five-star hotel, we were repeatedly asked whether we had settled the bill and with whom. Finally, after proving the payment, the questions stopped. However, the experience left a sour final impression. It was an unnecessary and uncomfortable situation that dampened an otherwise decent evening. Overall, while the food was largely enjoyable and well-prepared, the subpar service and uncomfortable departure experience significantly impacted our impression of the restaurant. Initially, I considered a 3- or 4-star rating, but due to these service issues, I can only give 2 out of 5 stars. Would I return? Likely not, given the disappointing service, which overshadowed an otherwise solid menu.

We enjoyed the evening thanks to the very kind and attentive service of our waiter called Golf! The Phad Thai could have more tofu and shrimps but I think the concept is to have smaller portions for a good price. This also allows to enjoy the delicious deserts! We will come back!

I had an unique experience at Isaan Thai Restaurant. I participated at the cooking class and the team was so welcoming and helpful. The chefs were very friendly and attentive. The dinner after our cooking was delicious. Thank you Isaan 🌸

I recommend this restaurant. Large spacious dining area, open kitchen stations, excellent food, drinks, and service. My wife and I dined here for our wedding anniversary. Our waitress Honey was excellent. She was pleasant, prompt, and answered our questions. Honey introduced us to Executive Chef Syrian Saelee who ensured that we had a great dining experience. We ordered four dishes as the plates are small. Honey, our waitress, suggested this. Each dish we ordered had its own unique flavor. My favorite dish was the “Dried beef, sesame, chili sauce”. The beef had a nice flavor and texture by itself. I did not care for the accompanying dipping sauce. Another favorite was the “Shredded pomelo, crabmeat, fried onion”. Both citrus sweet and salty. Something new for us. My wife thought the dish should have had more crabmeat. The “Steamed sea bass, lime dressing, Thai celery” also gave us a new flavor with the taste of the celery. Finally, the lobster tail (170g) with peppercorns and stir-fried vegetables was well prepared. Stir-fried perfectly. I had the “From Isaan with love” cocktail — Sticky rice infused vodka. I enjoyed it, but my wife did not like the taste. I also had the Thai Mekhong whiskey. A decent whiskey, though not as smooth as some Scotch whiskeys.

I highly recommend this place if you like Thai food, luxurious setting with beautiful views, and amazing service. If the weather is nice, try and book a table outside so you could enjoy the stunning views. Staff were very helpful, and the service was really fast.

Khanin, our waiter, gave us the best care! The place is super nice, amazing ambiance, loved the food and drinks. Amazing birthday spot.

Excellent service by the staff, with wait times mentioned for dishes which requires some preparation time. A good menu with a variety of Thai dishes and some unique cocktails. The Pomello salad was delightful, the chicken green curry and grilled prawns were excellent and the sago for dessert was on point. Theres a free flow of white sticky rice. Lighting was a bit too dim, everything else was great.

I had high hopes for Isaan, but unfortunately, it did not live up to expectations. The food lacked flavor, especially the fried rice, which was bland and uninspired. Portion sizes were surprisingly small, leaving me unsatisfied by the end of the meal. Overall, the experience was underwhelming, and I don't see myself returning anytime soon.