PAI or Imm Thai? Toronto's Toughest Thai Decision, Settled

Key Takeaways

• Go to PAI for a loud, fun group dinner featuring famous Northern Thai dishes like Khao Soi in a basement market setting.
• Head to Imm Thai Kitchen for a relaxed, quiet neighborhood meal with customizable regional curries and great vegan options.
• PAI is a popular downtown spot that often has long lines, while Imm Thai Kitchen offers a more intimate, laid-back atmosphere on College Street.
• Imm Thai Kitchen stands out with creative twists like Tom Yum Lobster Pad Thai, while PAI focuses on famous classics from Chef Nuit Regular.

Choosing Between PAI and Imm Thai Kitchen

When friends text me asking where to get great Thai food in Toronto, I always ask them what kind of night they want to have. The choice between these two spots really comes down to the room.

If you head to 18 Duncan Street in the Entertainment District, PAI takes you down into a basement space designed to feel like an open-air market in Northern Thailand. It is loud, fast, and always packed with people.

On the other hand, Imm Thai Kitchen at 651 College Street is a classic Little Italy hangout. The dining room is much smaller and quieter, making it easy to actually hear the person sitting across from you. It feels like a friendly neighborhood spot where you can easily unwind after a long day.

Northern Classics vs. Custom Curries

The food at each place shows off a different side of Thai cooking. PAI is famous for Chef Nuit Regular's Northern Thai dishes, like Khao Soi, pad gra prow, and a really great tom yum soup. These plates are made for sharing family-style, focusing on the bold, sour, and savory flavors of the north.

Over in Little Italy, Imm Thai Kitchen does things a bit differently. They offer five regional curries, including green, red, Massaman, Panang, and Malaysian curry. You can choose your own spice level, and the kitchen uses fresh vegetables from local Toronto growers.

They also have some fun, creative dishes on the menu. You can get a Tom Yum Lobster Pad Thai, or choose from a solid list of vegan options like crispy tofu and sweet potato fritters.

Dealing with the Crowds

Planning your night means thinking about the wait times. Because PAI is incredibly popular and has a spot in the Michelin Guide, you should expect a crowd. If you go on a weekend, you will likely have to wait in line. They only take limited reservations, mostly for larger groups via email, so walk-ins are the norm.

Imm Thai Kitchen is much easier to get into. The service is quick and friendly, and the food comes out fast. While it gets busy with Little Italy locals, you can usually get a table without the intense downtown rush.

The Verdict for Your Night Out

Your choice depends entirely on your plans. Go to PAI if you want a loud, fun group dinner downtown and want to try some of the city's most famous Thai dishes. It is perfect for a night out when you want the crowd and the noise to be part of the fun.

But you should head to Imm Thai Kitchen if you want a quiet, comforting meal. It is the perfect spot for a casual date or a catch-up with a friend where you can enjoy great curries and vegan dishes without the stress of a long line.