Tong's Thai Restaurant

I am that guy who Google knows to frequently search for “Thai food near me.” And as luck was having it, I was set to photograph the historic and iconic Bun ’N’ Barrel on the old Austin Highway coming out of San Antonio. Tong Thai popped up, and I knew where lunch was to be found. It is right next door.

I went with the Massaman Curry, a red curry full of flavor, and filled with potatoes, carrots, peas, onions, tofu, and even some ginger. Oh man, what a flavor pop! Let’s just say that it was total sensory alert, a three-alarm fire going on inside my mouth. It was perfect, because it was a somewhat chilly, drizzly December day, and lunch provided the warmth I craved. A side of steamed white rice rounded out the serving. This was my first for this type of curry dish, and I was convinced to add it to my repertoire. It’s a little different from strictly Thai-influenced foods, as this also has some Indian influences. In terms of mouth feel, it was a little gritty, if you will, meaning that it didn’t just slide down my trap like so many other curries. I rather enjoyed it, the earthiness enhancing the experience.

While returning from the men’s room, I noticed the numerous vintage photos on the wall adjacent to the WCs. One was of the current Tong This but many years ago, when apparently it was the overflow area for the next-door Bun ’N’ Barrel. Very cool! There’s a slice of San Antonio history for you right there. Get on it.

I ordered on Doordash but had to leave a review here too! I have been dying to find a good Thai place since moving here and I think I finally found the one! Usually I get the Tom Yum soup but this time I decided to try the Beef Noodle Soup. Omg! Best thing I have had! You know how sometimes the thin sliced beef in pho or soups is chewy and stringy? Or raw? This was perfectly cooked and melted in your mouth! I would definitely order again and can't wait to try again and again!

Always wanted to try this restaurant when we lived in this neighborhood, but that was during covid amd we went by a couple times they were closed. Finally made it back by and tried it. It was delicious! My wife had the egg drop soup that she enjoyed. Our nice tried the chicken curry and loved it. I had the chicken fried rice which had delicious flavor. Wish we had been able to get here when we lived close. Well be back though.

Absolutely Amazing Thai Food Experience. No doubt this restaurants food is reviewed in so many journals and by food lovers. Right from the time you enter its a zen den experience. Thoughtful and themed ambience. The servers are very sweet and i recommend as their suggestions if you not sure what to try. I always prefer to start trying with soups as a trailer of whole experience and they just did it like blockbuster. Their egg drop soup was “well crafted” and i never so neatly made egg drop before. It had the yok flavor which was surprising and the green onion crunch just felt so good. Dumplings 🥟 god - the meat was nicely minced and wrapped. Every bite was juicy and flavorful. I mean you got to visit here one more time and try more!

Tldr; Best Thai restaurant in San Antonio with great Vegetarian options. We have visited a lot of Thai restaurants hoping to find good vegetarian options and in most cases we have but this place has authentic Thai food with vegetarian options with a nice relaxed atmosphere resembling a Thai restaurant in Thailand! Parking is limited so be mindful of that on busy days. The hostess was quick to check us in to our tables and handed the menus. Our server came in with her recommendations of best vegetarian options and she also let us know if some of the dishes could be made vegetarian after consulting with the chef. We thought that was really nice. We tried the veg stir fry, masaman curry, panang curry and they were really well balanced and we loved the rich combination of fresh vegetables used in each dish. On the whole a wonderful enjoyable atmosphere on a relaxed weekend afternoon lunch for the family. Definitely a must go - if you have bigger groups call ahead as they have seating available outside as well!

Family friendly cozy dining atmosphere. No reservations needed. Easy to find parking in the back. Choice of covered outdoor seating or indoor seating. Friendly waitstaff who have great recommendations based off what you wanted. Quick service. Can adjust sodium and sugar levels to your preference. Delicious food.