"Although it’s one of the hottest tickets in town, having one of the largest dining rooms in the neighborhood allows Kalaya to fit a small college reunion inside. So when you have a large group of friends who crave fantastic Thai food, they’ve got you covered. From the chewy sakoo moo dumplings to sweet and spicy khiaw waan kalaya, there are no misses on the menu at the Fishtown spot. Sit back at a table with friends, pass around a few curries and towers of shaved ice, and argue over who gets to take the leftovers home." - candis mclean
"Kalaya is the first place we think of when we want Thai food, a place to impress out-of-towners, or a big night out with friends. The giant, palm-tree filled spot is always packed, so we wouldn't suggest showing up without a reservation. From the chewy sakoo moo dumplings and fragrant seafood dishes to the sweet and spicy khiaw waan kalaya, Philadelphians just can’t seem to get enough. Neither can we. It's one of the Best 25 Restaurants in Philly for a reason." - candis mclean, alison kessler
"For excellent and exciting Thai food in a chic and sexy package, look no further than Kalaya. The Fishtown restaurant's industrial space includes a full bar and lounge area, booths for large groups, and two-tops surrounding 14-foot Thai palm trees that reach up to an atrium glass ceiling. The southern Thai menu is extensive—your best bet is to come with a group and play table tetris with an order of (almost) everything. You’ll want some chicken dumplings that look too pretty to eat, and the fiery, sweet, and sour grilled squid. Save room for one of the umami-rich wok-fried dishes, and at least one curry from the rainbow of options. From their innovative cocktails to unforgettable dishes, Kalaya is an experience unlike anywhere else in the city." - alison kessler, candis mclean
"For excellent and exciting Thai food in a chic and sexy package, look no further than Kalaya. The Fishtown restaurant's industrial space includes a full bar and lounge area, booths for large groups, and two-tops surrounding 14-foot Thai palm trees that reach up to an atrium glass ceiling. The southern Thai menu is extensive—your best bet is to come with a group and play table tetris with an order of (almost) everything. You’ll want some chicken dumplings that look too pretty to eat, and the fiery, sweet, and sour grilled squid. Save room for one of the umami-rich wok-fried dishes, and at least one curry from the rainbow of options. From their innovative cocktails to unforgettable dishes, Kalaya is an experience unlike anywhere else in the city." - candis mclean, alison kessler
"One of the finest restaurants in Philly has incredible Thai cuisine. This dish — a spicy and sour lemongrass soup spiked with prawns, barramundi, mushrooms, and more — is a classic staple admired both locally and nationally." - Maddy Sweitzer-Lamme