Thai Yatai 999: A Taste of Thailand in the Heart of Tokyo

Tokyo is that city that surprises one with its food from the farthest corners of the earth, and to those needing a taste of Thai on a budget, Thai Yatai 999 is the ultimate discovery. Buried amidst busy streets of Tokyo, this eatery in an economic way sends diners right into the streets of Thailand with delicious food and a very absorbing atmosphere. Ranging from spicy curries to sour salads and comforting stir fries, Thai Yatai 999 introduces a menu that celebrates the best of Thai street food without breaking the bank.

With a menu that brings Thailand to your table, you can begin your meal with their classic Tom Yum, a hot and sour soup that balances perfectly the spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavour and pair it with their famous Pad Thai: a stir-fried noodle dish sweet and savory, topped with crunchy peanuts and a squeeze of lime for that extra zing.

Fried delights for those who love them are not left out in Thai Yatai 999. Crispy, golden Thai fried chicken and crunchy spring rolls in every bite, a perfect combination. My personal favourite is the prawn toast, the abundance of minced prawn in every bite makes it a treat. If something fresh is to order, then the green papaya salad is a refreshing choice, tying together the shredded papaya, tomatoes, and chili into one light yet flavourful dish.

For lovers of curry, both the rich green curry and massaman curry can be satisfying when served over steamed rice. In each, it’s a great blend of spice and coconut milk, comforting yet indulgent. To wash it all down, don’t forget their drinks! Especially their lassi, which is a creamy yogurt-based drink that’s both cooling and refreshing. For those looking to elevate their meal, Thai Yatai 999 also offers Thai beer to pair up with bold and spicy dishes.

What sets Thai Yatai 999 apart is not just its food but also its ambiance. Once inside, the decor of the restaurant is almost a hyperreal mimicry of Thailand‘s night market with their decors. This place, however, can be a place for casual comfort that would do great justice for just about any quick lunch, dinner with friends.

Perhaps the greatest thing about Thai Yatai 999 is the affordability factor. Dining out in Tokyo can be super expensive, but this place allows for a budget friendly means to enjoy Thai cuisine. Most dishes are below 1,000 yen, so students, travelers, and locals alike are able to make their way to this establishment for a meal. Prices remain low without any compromise in food quality to make sure every bite is delicious as it is affordable.

This is a must visit for any Thai food lover. Although the photos are taken in the Futakotamagawa branch, Thai Yatai 999 has many chain restaurants around tokyo, so a quick search on the internet will lead you to your closest branch. The next time you’re in Tokyo and craving a taste of Thailand or something spicy, head to Thai Yatai 999 and your taste buds will thank you!

Written and Photos Taken by Lucy from Australia