Kalaya
$$$ • Thai, Vegan, Vegetarian
Hours:
4 West Palmer Street, Philadelphia
(215) 545-2535
About Kalaya
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Kalaya Reviews
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I love this place, great food, lots of flavors to explore. wonderful staff, and seeing the owner front of house and behind the line was a beautiful experience 🦋. I cannot wait to come back and eat here again! 😀 Traveled from Utah to come eat here! (plus visit my son, that surprised us with reservations) a must visit if you get a chance to go! 🦋
Amazing food! Absolutely great experience!
Authentic Thai dishes not available anywhere else.
Menu
Hours
| Monday | 5 - 10PM |
| Tuesday | 5 - 10PM |
| Wednesday | 5 - 10PM |
| Thursday | 5 - 10PM |
| Friday | 5 - 11PM |
| Saturday | 11AM - 2PM 5 - 11PM |
| Sunday | 11AM - 2PM 5 - 10PM |
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Kalaya offers a unique and exceptional dining experience with a stunning atmosphere, featuring beautiful artwork, a skylight, and comfortable booths. The service is outstanding, with attentive staff who are happy to guide customers through the menu and make recommendations. The food is incredible, with flavors that are otherworldly and dishes that are not typically found at other Thai restaurants. The menu includes a variety of options, from cocktails to desserts, and the staff are knowledgeable and friendly. The dishes are full of complex and spicy flavors, such as the Shaw Muang (flower-shaped dumplings), Laab Ped (ground duck salad), Gaeng Pae (goat and lamb curry), and Goong Thod Kluae (wok-fried prawns). The grilled chicken entrée is also popular, though some may be surprised by the inclusion of chicken foot. The open kitchen adds to the lively atmosphere, and the presentation of the food is impressive. While the food is flavorful and fresh, some reviews mention that it can be quite spicy, and spice levels are not always adjusted, so guests should be aware. The restaurant occasionally offers complimentary drinks, like a refreshing Thai tea tiramisu or a nonalcoholic beverage when spice is too intense. Portions may be smaller than expected, and some find the prices a bit high for the value received. The interior is beautifully designed, creating a fun and lively environment, enhanced by artwork and lighting. Many dishes are creatively prepared, with strong flavors that make them so good, like Mussels Golar, which is one of the reviewer’s favorites, and the Gaeng Pae, well spiced and very tasty. The Branzino is served in a delicious and spicy broth with great portion size. The Coconut Pineapple Shaved Ice dessert is a highlight, with huge servings, strawberries, and a bottom that molds into harder ice cream with tapioca, making it a favorite treat. Staff are very enthusiastic and attentive, and the owner takes time to meet guests, asking about their experience. In some cases, the restaurant went above and beyond by remaking leftover food when forgotten, showing their care for customers. The interior features a palm tree and paper light shades that set a cozy mood, though they are quite different in style. Some reviews mention that while the food is good, it is similar to other Thai or Asian dishes they’ve had, and the presentation could be improved with better plating. Certain dishes like roasted pork belly and half chicken were not seen as particularly special, with some similarities to other dishes and a lack of refinement in presentation. The tiramisu dessert was considered overdone and too strong in flavor. Despite these critiques, overall, Kalaya provides a beautiful setting, excellent presentation, and serious execution, making it a worthwhile visit whether for a special occasion or a night out. Guests are encouraged to try different menus on return visits.