This Thai spot was just ranked the best restaurant in Canada — Here's what's on the menu
Ever wondered what "childhood memories" taste like?
The interior of "Canada's best restaurant." Right: A lobster dish from Baan Lao.
Calling all Canadian foodies! If you're searching for the best restaurant in Canada, there's one Vancouver spot that you need to put on your foodie bucket list ASAP: Baan Lao.
This Thai fine dining gem, located in Richmond's scenic Steveston waterfront, was just crowned Best Restaurant in Canada at the 2024 World Culinary Awards.
What makes Baan Lao so special? Well, according to the 2024 World Culinary Awards experts, it's all about the vision and talent of Chef Nutcha Phanthoupheng, the mastermind behind the restaurant's exquisite Royal Thai cuisine.
Chef Nutcha has put her heart and soul into creating an unforgettable dining experience where every dish tells a story. Using traditional Thai techniques combined with the finest locally sourced ingredients from B.C., Baan Lao's menu is considered a true celebration of flavour, culture, and craftsmanship.
Think fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and artfully presented plates that transport you straight to Thailand, but with a distinct Pacific Northwest twist.
Baan Lao isn't just known for its incredible food—it's the full package. The restaurant's inviting atmosphere, inspired by the rich heritage of Thai culture, offers an unpretentious yet luxurious experience for diners. From the moment you step in, you're enveloped in a bright, airy setting that perfectly complements the elevated cuisine.
It's no wonder both locals and international foodies have been flocking to this spot, and now, with the title of the best restaurant in Canada, it's bound to get even more attention.
Baan Lao now joins an elite list of previous Canadian winners like Alo (Toronto) and Toqué (Montreal), as well as international heavyweights like The French Laundry (United States) and Atelier Crenn (United States).
What's on the menu?
If you're planning a visit to Baan Lao, you're in for a one-of-a-kind fine dining experience. The restaurant offers three standout menus, each designed to immerse you in the rich flavours of Thailand while showcasing Chef Nutcha's creative twist on traditional dishes.
One option is the 13-course "Celebrating the Bounty and Beauty of Thailand" tasting menu. Standout dishes include Bird's Nest Soup, Pumpkin Egg Custard, and Watermelon with Hand-Roasted Dried Wild Rock Fish Flakes.
This tasting menu is priced at $195 per person. Wine pairings are available for an additional $110 per person, cocktail pairings for $100, mocktail pairings for $80, Gong Fu Cha Tea for $75, and caffeine-free tea for $65.
You can make reservations for this tasting menu on Wednesdays through Sundays, with seating times available at 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.
Alternatively, you could try the Signature Dinner Experience: "From the Fields of Thailand to the Shores of Canada." This 12-course menu chronicles Chef Nutcha's life journey, blending the traditional flavours of her rural Thai upbringing with the ingredients and inspiration she's found on the west coast of B.C.
Among the dishes on this menu are Deep-Fried Papaya Salad with Hand Roasted Organic Cashew, Water Buffalo Tenderloin Massamman Curry, Lobster Phat Thai and a dessert simply called "Chef Nutcha's Childhood Memories." What does that taste like? Well, you'll have to try it and find out!
This tasting menu costs $290 per person, with wine pairings available for an additional $95 per person and tea pairings for $80. It's only served on Saturdays, with seating at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., so you'll want to book ahead.
Finally, you can try the Afternoon Tea Thai Experience, which features twelve beautifully crafted dishes paired with your choice of Gongfu Cha Tea or Caffeine-Free Tea. A dedicated tea sommelier guides you through the tasting session, ensuring each tea complements the flavours of the food.
This one costs $95 per person, with reservations open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.
Just remember, tax and gratuity are additional, so plan accordingly!
Baan Lao
Price: 💸💸💸💸
Cuisine: Royal Thai
Address: 4100 Bayview St, Richmond, BC
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking to try one of the best restaurants in Vancouver (technically Richmond, but close enough), Baan Lao should be at the top of your list.
Whether you're in the mood for a casual night out or celebrating a special occasion, this award-winning spot promises an unforgettable culinary journey. And now, with the title of Best Restaurant in Canada, there's even more reason to make a reservation at this local gem.
Baan Lao menus