Little Thai Market
51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA, 19107
Little Thai Market Menu
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Address :
51 N 12th St
Philadelphia, PA, 19107 - Phone (215) 873-0231
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :10:00 am - 6:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : No
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Touristy
Noise Level : Very Loud
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Jenn C.
The salmon curry is so worth the long wait. I say I'll try something else,and I never do. The price ($6.50) is a bargain (a lot of food). The sauce (mild flavor) is more like a broth,so ask for extra. I tried the coconut chicken soup and it was good. Pay attention when you're eating it though...some seriously hard ingredients floating around that will break a tooth or two. Also, don't be a lazy piggy (like me),and order another salmon curry for the next day. Doesn't taste the same. At. All.
(4)Chris W.
Wow what a great lunch spot. I have not had Thai food this delicious since visiting San Francisco. I knew I was in for a treat when there was a 30 person line already at noon. I patiently waited and eventually got to sample the salmon curry, Thai salad, and shrimp pad Thai. All were $6 each and hit the spot. The salmon curry was the standout. A ton of meat piled on flurry rice covered in their special curry sauce. Next time I will be asking for extra sauce. The Thai salad had tender chicken and a perfect balance of flavors. I loved the hints of lime and loved the overall refreshment factor. The shrimp pad Thai got off to a non 5 star start but once I worked my way down and got the sauce in every bite I was officially in heaven. Next time I just need to find a way to get some heat into the mix. Definitely a can't miss lunch spot in Reading Terminal, and that's saying something.
(5)T N.
3 words: Chicken, red, curry. Everyone gets the salmon, and I get it, it's good and it's a super value. Trust me though, getting the salmon is like agreeing to a date with a guy you think is terrific, only to find out his brother is George Clooney. The one you've got is still pretty great, but the other one has an Oscar and a house in Italy. I worked a block from Reading Terminal market for two years and in that time accomplished my goal of eating repeatedly at every eatery, but the place I kept coming back to was Little Thai Market. The chicken red curry is outstanding: just spicy enough, plenty of coconuty goodness, big chunks of chicken, red peppers, and bamboo shoots. It's delicious and for under $8 you can get it with a couple of spring rolls and save half for lunch tomorrow.
(5)Meg B.
That's right the secret is out! This little place in the middle of the Reading Terminal Market is a huge find! $5.50 for a bowl of rice and freshed steamed broccili topped with this delicious, melt in your mouth pan seared salmon that seeps it's yummy sauce throughout the rice. You can't get a fine piece of salmon like this anywhere! You can't go wrong with their pad thai either- $5.50 for a heaping lunch portion is the best for the money I have seen in the city ( note for the money, some of my favs like Aqua are worth paying the extra price). If you are looking for good Thai, check this baby out!
(5)Danan R.
The chicken basil is fantastic and inexpensive to boot. Which leaves me with enough cash to get an order of pad Thai to go. Love it! It might not be gourmet Thai orchid food but it is still delicious.
(4)Denise W.
The best Thai food I have ever had. The salmon curry over broccoli and rice was delicious. The coconut shrimp soup was absolutely the best. The Lady at the counter was so nice and the line moved quickly. My dining partner love my food too!.
(5)Erica M.
I went and got the salmon red curry following everyone else's suggestions. The flavor was delicious, but the salmon was a bit oily. I think next time I'll go back, I will get the curry with veggies and/or chicken rather than the salmon. However, it was quite yummy and I DEFINITELY had plenty of leftovers!
(4)Michael B.
What more is there to say? The salmon is one of the must-try dishes of the RTM. The delicate salmon, the light curry sauce... It's really great. Another hit is the spicy shrimp. Give it a try if you can resist the salmon. (Unfortunately, though, it's the dish that reveals Little Thai Market's weakness: its crap plastic silverware. It is not an exaggeration to say that I've had difficulty cutting through shrimp. SHRIMP! BYO butter knife.)
(4)Elisha C.
I'm a Pad Thai junkie. The problem is that, in my neighborhood at least, most Thai is in huge portions that I don't want to pay quite so much for. But whenever I'm in Center City, Little Thai Market is the place to go. The prices are great, the food is excellent. And the portions are just right for lunch - by which I mean I can devour about half of it, reseal the plastic container, and take the other half home for a perfect midnight snack. I'd be happy spending so little for just one meal of great food - getting enough to feed me twice is just an added perk!
(4)Jennie H.
I always get lost trying to find this place every time I'm in the Reading Terminal Market. When I'm in the mood for fast, cheap, and delicious Thai food, this is the place for me. I've tried their Red Curry Salmon, Chicken Basil, and Shrimp Pad Thai and they were all wonderful. My usual is their Chicken Basil. What I love about this place is that their food is always consistent, service is friendly, and best of all... it's cheap! :).
(4)Peter M.
The chicken yellow curry is amazing. It's simple, but delicious. Chicken, rice, potatoes, onions, & yellow curry. It has a nice sweetness to it. Under $10.
(5)Dave L.
Had some chicken with red curry sauce for lunch yesterday and was happy that I picked Little Thai Market among all the food choices available at Reading Terminal Market. With a Coke I was on my way for under $8. Portion size was huge, ingredients fresh, and chicken tender. The staff was a wee bit grouchy - but for the food quality and price it was a wash. Cash only. Might have to go back for that salmon later in the week.
(4)Dayna R.
Probably the most delicious salmon that has ever entered my mouth. The salmon with red curry sauce is amazing, and you cannot beat the price for the portion size! The line can sometimes be a little slow, but it is worth it.
(5)Christina K.
My first thought when hearing Little Thai Market is "Mmmmm, Salmon with red curry", while drooling of course. I've only been here twice, but once is enough to get you hooked for life. They have their little mini assembly line when taking orders which is good, therefore you're not waiting till you get to the cashier to place your order. However, there will always be a line, so being patient is a real virtue in this aspect. Regardless of the wait, it is always worth it in my book. Tender moist salmon with their delicious and flavorful red curry, crisp veggies and delightful sticky rice. It is truly heaven in a white take out container. I haven't tried any of their other dishes yet, but I plan to, considering all the other reviewers raving about them.
(4)John B.
I like this little spot. Their coconut tom yum? soup always satisfies. I see that some folks are complaining that it lacks complexity? It does lack a bit of sour flavor, but I like it just fine. The soup has a lot of bay leaves and lemongrass stalks...you have to fish them out. It's salty and sweet...it's just awesome. The noodles aren't very great, I agree. The noodles aren't made by order, so it's something to be expected. But their salmon is really good though. It has really smoky flavor. My wife doesn't like salmon, especially Atlantic salmon, but she likes this salmon. I advise that you get it with extra sauce, which adds the extra kick that might lack if you don't get it with extra sauce. Overall, it's cheap, fast, reliable food (at least for the soup and the salmon dish). And that's the combination that's hard to come by these days.
(4)Jennifer N.
I returned to Little Thai Market yesterday for lunch. I must adjust my review. I ordered the grilled salmon again, this time with extra sauce. The salmon was as I remembered -- moist, tender and huge. Seriously, when I got back to my office, I promptly cut the salmon in half and stored for Wednesday's lunch. What I was a little disappointed in was the red curry sauce. It is more watery than creamy, and lacks a bit of flavor. It's still a good meal in a pinch, and a terrific bargain ($7.02, I believe with the extra sauce). I will surely return.
(3)Gregory N.
This place is akin to the Soup Nazi in Seinfeld: seriously. During the workweek lunch hour, there's a line down the aisle. The locals (I am one) rave about this place. You can't go wrong. As the others have said, the salmon with red curry is a chart topper. I had shrimp coconut soup. It looked bland, had white coconut broth, and not much more, but it was damn good. If you have an appetite, you can order salmon w/ shrimp + red curry sauce. It's what I had today. Really wonderful. $8. But I do second the popular opinion: ask for extra sauce. All the extra protein left some room desired for the sauce. And it's like crack. Put the pipe to your lips.
(5)Naseem E.
This place isn't fancy, the staff isn't particularly friendly, I think it's cash only, they charge you "extra" for additional sauce and looming above is an unfriendly "no refunds" sign, but the food is delicious and cheap. Can't go wrong with that. My favorites: Tom Ka ($2 for HUGE portions!!!!), Pad Thai, Basil Chicken, Salmon Red Curry, Yellow Curry, Red Curry Chicken, Papaya Salad. Everything is good. Overall, a fantastic value for your money. The meat/seafood portions are fabulous.
(4)Vinay P.
*******Please note that this review is based only on the Pad Thai******* So, I went to this place for lunch after reading the rave reviews on Yelp. When I got to the place, the long snaking line seemed to justify the reviews I was really craving some Pad Thai and ordered the Vegetable Pad Thai (I'm not vegetarian but I didn't feel like eating meat on that day). First impression - the Pad Thai was red in color - unlike any Pad Thai that I've had before but well, it wouldn't matter as long as it tasted good. It was pretty cheap ($5+taxes) for Thai food When I did start eating though, the Pad Thai had a strong sea food smell (fish/shrimp) smell on it although I ordered the vegetable Pad Thai. It didn't bother me, but for someone who is a staunch vegetarian, this could be a deal breaker. It tasted devoid of any thai flavor. The vegetable pieces were few and far in between, there was very little peanut and I could hardly taste the peanut sauce in it Add to this, there were pieces of various meat - I found pieces of chicken, shrimp and pork. Again, I just threw them aside and continued eating, but for someone who is a strict vegetarian, this will definitely be a deal breaker I could finish only about three quarters and threw the rest. I might go there again and order the Red Curry or the Salmon that people love so much, but I'm NEVER ordering the Pad Thai from here again
(1)Shannon M.
I've eaten here twice and ordered the same thing both times: the chicken pad thai (boring I know!). Each time I watched them prepare the salmon dish that everyone seems to rave about and it does look delicious. Unfortunately, the chicken pad thai isn't that great. Sure it's okay for a quick $6 Thai fix but I've definitely had better. I suggest ordering hot sauce on the side as the flavor is a bit bland. Maybe next time I'll buck up and just go with the salmon?
(3)Andrew S.
4 stars because it is all premade in vats but that also makes it quick. Not the caliber of bangkok street food but authentic and filling. I had the red chicken curry which was moderately spicy, well flavored, and filling. It came over a bed of rice for a reasonable price. Of note, a lot of people seemed to be ordering duck, salmon which were not premade but took 15 min or so, which was time I didnt have. No credit cards FYI
(4)Veronika V.
Salmon, Salmon, Salmon, Salmon. If I had to choose a last meal, their salmon with extra sauce and extra broccoli would be it.
(5)Nerissa L.
This is one of my favorite places to grab lunch when I have the extra time. The phad thai is always good, as in the red curry, and the tom kha gai (coconut milk soup). And even though every time I go there I tell myself that I'll try the salmon you see everyone ordering during the huge lunch rush - I still have yet to do so. The only two down falls of this place are the big line during lunch time, and that it's cash only.
(4)Carrie G.
I am ashamed to say that the guy who works here around 5:30 pm on Mondays knows exactly who I am and exactly what I order. I always, without fail, order the salmon curry with extra curry sauce. It's $7.02 with tax, and it's enough food for a meal and a snack. Heavenly. Seriously, though. The extra curry sauce is really important. If you don't order it, your rice will be dry by the end.
(4)Anthony S.
Sometimes you pay a lot for food and the food is good, but not excellent. However, the service was incredible and makes the price worth it. Other times the food is cheap, and makes you feel as if you just drank a bucket of Crisco and a block of Velveeta. Little Thai Market is cheap and delicious. The food comes quick, even when a line is starting to wrap around the side of their "stall". Highly recommended for the vegetarians out there. The nice thing about their location as well, is that you can go find dessert in the form of some local fruit or baked goods. The bad thing about their location is that it is tourist central, which makes for great people watching. Sometimes I like my AZN cuisine to be found in an out of the way strip mall.
(5)Kelly P.
monstrous portion... i'm a self-proclaimed rice addict, and when i get a dish with a dollop of rice instead of a mountain, i am peeved. the amount of rice i received here today for lunch with my chicken basil bumped this review from a 4 to a 5. the dish was awesome. if i had any self control at all i would have saved a portion for lunch tomorrow. but i dont. so i didnt.
(5)Karen B.
ok, it's no secret that if you go to reading terminal -- anywhere in reading terminal -- around lunchtime, you're gonna wait in line. which can be annoying. especially if you're not familiar with your chosen vendor and can't be sure the wait is worth it. so i'll spare you the anguish of uncertainty. little thai market is totally worth it! hearty portions at low prices (cash only, btw). my staple: the deliciously coconutty red curry vegetables (although judging by other reviews, apparently i should get the salmon next time). the curry's sufficiently creamy without being too heavy and turning into a tantrum-throwing colicky food baby post-consumption. and with any of their dishes, unless you're a cousin of miss piggy like i am, you'll likely get two meals out of one order. so, go ahead and wait in that line.
(4)Joyce T.
delicious & enormous salmon with curry sauce for below $7
(5)Miss Z.
Like everyone else, I am a huge fan of the salmon curry. For 6 bucks, I get a great lunch that usually allows me to skip dinner altogether (and go straight to dessert). The ladies in the back work their tails off during lunchtime to get that salmon out the door. It's crazy how everyone knows to get the salmon - it all feels kinda soup nazi-ish. But these people are nice. And if they were like the soup nazi, I would still go. It's that good. Try their yummy spring rolls as well. I'm off to get one now ;)
(4)Michelle N.
The long line and the fact that everyone raves about this place, would normally be a turn off for me. But the line moves fast and it's cheap and the food is excellent. The quality and the flavor is as good as I've had for 3x the price at a nicer sit down Thai restaurant. Portions are large. Only complaint is entrees (chicken basil, red curry) could be a litle spicier for my liking, but I understand this is cafeteria style preparation and made to please the masses.
(5)Larry L.
Little Thai Markets salmon dish is the best salmon I have ever had. Thin grilled with a sweet curry sauce. I like half-rice extra broccoli extra sauce. I go half rice because It doesn't matter how much they give me, when it's sitting in the curry sauce I can't help but eat it all! Also, you can buy their red curry sauce, but they won't give you the recipe (I've already asked)
(5)Lene P.
I'm not a real Thai eater, I pretty much ONLY get the salmon dish, the egg rolls, and the BBQ skewers here. They are SO tasty! I love it! This is my favorite lunch spot at RTM. However, this place is also the reason I learned to NOT come around lunch time. The line can snake all around the stand. It moves pretty quickly, though, except when they have to cook more food, then you're screwed, haha. I haven't been here in a long time, but when I come back, I know I'll be ordering that salmon again. YUM.
(4)A K.
I've been frequenting this favorite stop on my lunch rotation for about 7 years now. Two words: Salmon Curry. I always ask for mine with extra broccoli, no rice. I've never been disappointed in that order. I always get an order of the Chicken Spring Rolls to go with it. The Pad Thai is just OK. The shrimp they use are of low quality...tail-on, pre-cooked, which have NOT been de-veined. A pet peave of mine. Usually they taste like iodine, so I steer clear. The chicken option is nothing special. I stay away. So i suggest the Vegetable Pad Thai as the best of the three options. The other dishes are not my thing. But I've tried them all. And I'm still a frequent customer. The owners are great people. Trust me on that. They know how to treat a repeat customer who is otherwise a complete stranger.
(4)Kat L.
Portion and price wise, this place is great. Flavor and the quality of the food is subpar. The curry salmon is only $6.50 and they give you a HUGE piece of salmon with rice. I found it disappointing that they are so stingy with the broccoli though. Even though the fish was good, the overall flavor of the dish was very much lacking. It only tasted like a pale version of real Thai food. The red curry chicken was $6 and with that, you get a good amont of chicken and vegetables. The flavor of this dish was somewhat better but it still left a lot to be desired. I also tried the coconut chicken soup and this was the WORST. The soup did not have any coconuty taste. It tasted like it had vinegar in it! Disgusting.
(2)Candice R.
Having worked downtown and frequenting the Reading Terminal Market often for lunch....this is one of the hidden gems. The line is always long at lunchtime (a good sign no?) and most folks are getting my favorite dish....the grilled salmon in a coconut curry sauce over steamed rice and broccoli. For a great meal under $10, it can't be beat. Do yourself a favor and try it out.
(4)Erin A.
I only get the chicken yellow curry. It's so good that I just can't bring myself to get anything else. Its a great spot to grab lunch. They have $2 chicken and lemongrass soup that's acutally big enough for a meal size portion. My friend always gets the salmon so it must be good but like I said, I'll never know.
(5)Stephanie S.
Love! Love! Love! this place... I walk here at least 3 times a week during lunch for the salmon (I work on spring garden). It's reasonably priced and gets crowded quick. I love the little containers the food comes in and Its just the right portion to fill you up. I've become addicted!
(4)Candace C.
ehh, the pad thai was ok, but the big juicy shrimp in it redeemed it. it is just a little weird that the shrimp wasn't cooked into the pad thai. the curry is better here. salmon filets are super popular! everyone around me was getting it. if im in the mood for thai, ill stick to erawan.
(3)Kaitlin L.
Who cares if the line is wrapped around their stand? It's worth the wait. The food is all pre-made so there is a really quick turn around anyway. Solid, consistent thai food. I think the most expensive thing on the menu is $6 (Salmon w/ red curry sauce..a-mazing). Worth looking out for when going to reading terminal.
(4)Bill C.
The food here is incredible and a great value. I am addicted to the salmon and eat it at least once a week. The portion sizes are ridiculously large. Occasionally, there is a salmon filet that is not quite as massive as is the norm for them, to make up for this, they give you 2 filets. I love those days. This really is a perfect meal, the entrees here will never leave you feeling hungry but wont put you in a food coma either. Listen, if you like hot (good hot, not burn your mouth hot), then ask them for a side of hot sauce. They have dixie cups of sriracha ready at the counter for the asking. They also sell the sriracha by the bottle (although you can find in cheaper at a chinatown grocery store).
(5)Sarah F.
Little Thai Market is cheap, fast, and tasty. My friends and I used to go every Saturday for a hangover cure. For 3 bucks you can get a huge side of rice with curry sauce and a coke. The salmon is good, as well as the coconut shrimp soup and the spring rolls. The guy that works the register is really nice and remembers your order after you show up enough times.
(5)Jennifer O.
I so wanted to go here to get a pregnancy spice fix, but unfortunately, they use MSG in everything.
(3)Sara L.
The Little Thai Market is a great place in Reading Terminal to grab lunch or pick up an easy take-home dinner. Most of their dishes fall into the "cheap and adequate" category, as they are obviously prepared in bulk and kept in warming trays for quick service. For the prices and the quantity, I am okay with this. Their salmon red curry really stands out as excellent - the fish is char-grilled pretty much as it is being ordered and is served with rice and a little side of broccoli topped with tasty red curry sauce. This might be the best meal you can get in the city for $6.00 ($6.50 if you want extra sauce).
(3)whitney h.
Little Thai Market is the jewel of reading terminal. Fast cheap and so full of flavor. The salmon is my go to dish but the curry chicken is a close second my friends. My advice to you is to check it out soon and always get extra curry sauce. khraawng mitr!
(4)James R.
I will give this place 4 stars because the food is very good. The only reason I don't give it 5 is because I was looking for a place with very authentic Thai food. Having lived in Thailand for 7 years I really crave the foods I used to get at all the little markets. Fancy places rarely have these dishes, and I was hopeful that this place might. In the end, it's what I'd call 'americanized thai food', but it is very tasty and well priced.
(4)Dawn W.
I was really psyched up for this place after reading the reviews and seeing the long line around the counter. Almost everyone ahead of me ordered the salmon, which did look good, but I went with shrimp pad thai. The pad thai was just okay. The noodles were good, but they were cold. There were too many bean sprouts on top and I could barely make it through to the noodles. The shrimp were a good size and I think there were 5 or 6, making it a good value, if the shrimp weren't cold! I saw the lady pick out a few shrimp from a bowl sitting on the counter for my dish, no heat at all. The flavor was okay, but not as good as expected. I'll go back just to try the salmon, but I would not get the pad thai again. Pho Xe Lua, Viet Thai Restaurant on Race St. a few blocks away is much, much better and my favorite place in Chinatown!
(2)Megan T.
I had salmon in red curry sauce... I wish my office is in center city,, so I can go there evey lunch!!!
(5)Dredge K.
A Thai stall in Reading Market, the food is ready made and waiting in buffet trays, so there is no waiting. You can sit at numerous tables scattered through the market. Ok for a quick to-go order, and the portions are a good size, but as far as Thai food goes, not so tasty. I got the lemongrass soup with chicken, yellow curry chicken, and salmon, based on what I had read on here. The soup was too salty / fish saucy and lacked the complexity / aromatic flair it should have (e.g. more galangal and lemongrass). The yellow curry was simple and bland. The salmon was well cooked and a good portion for the price, but the sauce lacked the typical Thai kick. It needed more basil, more lime, more chili, more umph. It reminded me of mall food court food. I thought I could make every one of these dishes better. I am not Thai, but I have to confess, I have lived in both Thailand and Thailand's foreign province of Los Angeles.
(2)Katy D.
You absolutely cannot beat the price and the flavor of this place. I've tried almost everything and have never been disappointed. The portions are right on, while at other Thai places, they can be too small. I also buy Thai cooking ingredients from there, which can be really expensive if you get them at the supermarket or the spice terminal. The staff is friendly too and very fast. I only wish they would make some fresh Thai iced tea... the canned stuff just isn't as good!
(5)Ashley T.
Their Salmon and Rice is AMAZINGGGGGG (about $8) and enough for two meals. Delicious, perfectly cooked salmon, crunchy broccoli, and fast service. Located in Reading Terminal Market
(5)Donte P.
So, my coworker told me about this place so, of course, I had to try it. First, I stopped by on a Sunday only to discover they were closed! I tried again the following Saturday. When I got there the line was very long. I ordered Curry Salmon with shrimp. Waited in line for about 10-15 minutes but it was well worth it. Not a bad price either. It was a little over $10 for my lunch. The salmon was grilled and laid on top of white rice and broccoli. Then they add raw shrimp and ladle curry sauce over everything! Absolutely delicious and worth the wait in line and I'm not even mad they were closed went I went on Sunday! If you're near Reading Terminal Market in Philly you gotta stop by and try this place!!!
(5)Jared J.
That Little Thai Market located in the heart of Reading Terminal Offers some legit Thai food to go at fair prices. With long lines that move quicker than you think, Little Thai Market might be a good option for lunch in the area. I tried the Salmon Curry which was really big. Honestly the portion was too big to finish after downing a coconut soup. The flavors were there but not perfect, and the broccoli was a nice touch, however I would rather have more veg and less mounds of coconut rice. On a final note the coconut soup was a bit watery. Everything at Thai Market is A-OK
(3)Leah Y.
Excellent first off let me say if your in a rush and your here during lunch hours the line is super long and people will wait for their foods, every time I come here I order tge salmon and rice With extra sauce and broccoli. I brought my mom who was visiting from nyc and she cant get enough of the salmon and rice, when you dont know what to eat in. THIS PLACE WILL NEVER FAIL YOU.
(4)Nina d.
This place is so consistently delicious. I've had the famous salmon and it's so so flavorful. The pork is just as yummy, as well as the chicken red curry. Their sauces are just packed with flavor and you won't be disappointed. But then there's the chicken lemongrass coconut soup. Oh. My. Word. I can't even begin to describe it. There's so many notes that hit your mouth. The size just isn't adequate. Wish I could have some now!!!!
(5)Suzy G.
Still love the food, but sort of sad that it is now crazy busy....good for the owners, not so good for the customers. I don't come here as often as I used to because the lines are just too long now, and I barely have enough time to eat my food before I have to jet back to the office. I miss the days when it was my little secret place to have lunch really cheap with much shorter lines and wait times. Also, the price has gone up considerably since I've started coming here. I remember way back when it only cost about $5.00 for the Salmon in curry sauce.
(4)Bill M.
There is ALWAYS a line here usually wrapped around the corner and down to the next merchant - but that is because it is worth it! Absolutely love the Basil Chicken served over rice. The Salmon is extremely popular (and tasty) as you hear order after order of that called out. Not a huge fan of the spring rolls but I have definitely had worse. As noted by a few other people they aren't the friendliest and it's very much a 'next' 'next' 'next' mentality - I guess I don't mind that since all orders are to-go and you head over to the main seating area in the market if you want to eat there. I'm not there for a hug and a smile - I'm there to grab lunch and go so it's all good.
(4)Nisar C.
The reviews are pretty spot on. Yes the lines are long. Yes the guy may seem rude, but he was preparing like 20 dishes, probably doesn't know a lot of english. And yes, the red curry salmon was fucking delicious. Worth the wait. and it was fairly cheap. Good size portion for the price. I also had the thai chicken and coconut soup, it wasn't bad, and the chicken spring rolls, they were pretty big rolls and they were pretty good too. Pretty solid place for lunch.
(4)Mike M.
the line is terrible but thats because the food is amazing! 7 bucks for a huge piece of salmon with a creamy coconut sauce. with rice and veggies too. stop reading and go eat!
(5)April L.
I ordered the salmon curry, it wasn't anything special; just a big chunk of salmon over rice. The salmon tasted like it was microwaved before grilling it. This place had a long line so I thought it would be good but it was a serious disappointment. If you guys think this is good, then you haven't had any authentic thai food. Just saying...
(2)Anne K.
Long lines during peak hours for lunch, but they have the best salmon and shrimp red curry in the city!
(5)Kay B.
I've been coming here for many years! At first it seemed to be my little secret Thai place. I would get their spring rolls and bamboo curry dishes. One day my Fiance came with me him being Laos saw some type of secret menu.. .something that wasnt in the buffet. Salmon over rice with a red curry coconut base poured over it. That was the start to something wonderful! Now the secret is out and people from all over the city come just for that Salmon :-( somedays they run out on me. Its a great dish that some people add shrimp to (I dont know why)I kinda wished it would have stayed my little secret (hehehe) oh I also love the small little Market with all types of Thai groceries you can buy to concoct ur own Thai dishes!!
(4)Yangy L.
We got the basil chicken, spicy shrimp with bamboo shoots, and salmon curry for takeout. The ordering process is very efficient, and the prices are good. The best dish is the salmon curry, the sauce they pour over the salmon is really delicious and you get rice, broccoli, and a good amount of salmon for the money. The other two dishes were just okay. I noticed that the shrimp was in another container and only combined with the spicy bamboo when they pack it. This prevents the shrimp from soaking in the flavor from the sauce =[. The basil chicken was not tender and the flavor was meh.
(3)Augustina G.
I feel like this place is highly overrated and is given high marks by those who do not frequent Reading Terminal Market or even Philadelphia. During lunchtime, as expected with many stalls in the market, lines can be very long and this one is definitely not an exception. I recommend avoid going between 12 and 1:30. You better be ready when you hear "next....next...next" to place your order. Clearly, it's very robotic service. The salmon, I'll admit is quite good. You get a large piece of fish that's on the thin side with 2-3 pieces of broccoli. A big problem I have with this place is the microwave! The salmon is microwaved shortly before it is served to you. The curry sauce is very good and definitely not bland. I've had the chicken with basil and wasn't that impressed. Same goes for the spring rolls, but the dipping sauce is very good.
(2)Marianne A.
The only place in Reading terminal market that had a line at 11:40 am...and it was definitely with the wait! A line-stander recommended the salmon curry and it did not disappoint! A massive, tender piece of salmon grilled (and warmed in microwave) atop a bed of rice and broccoli, smothered in a "red?" curry sauce.. (more beige in color) was lunch and dinner in one sitting. Tip: If you order the vegetable curry you can skip to the head of the line. So delish!
(5)Michael B.
Food is excellent but you have to wait every time even when there is nobody in line. Employees are cold. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. Also, the cross contaminate utensils; using tongs to serve the Salmon and to pick up chicken and noodles. I'm not sure who they pay off in the health dept. And they manage to forget your soda or spring rolls every time. I just had to say something.
(1)Tobin Y.
The service has stepped up their game both with the food and customer service. The only reason they don't get five stars is because of the long lines.
(4)Howard L.
Red curry salmon so good I have to lick the bowl. Embarrassing in front of people? Screw them!
(5)JiaJia T.
Tasty Salmon curry with extra sauce for 7 bucks and change. Seriously nothing in life beats delicious and satisfying meal at a bargain price. The salmon was moist and well seasoned, the curry was well balanced and the jasmine rice soaked up all the flavor!
(4)Lilia S.
Perhaps there isn't any great Thai food in Center City? I don't get all the rave reviews for this place calling it the best Thai in the city. I have ordered the salmon curry twice and it is in no way authentic Thai food. The portion of food is plentiful, especially the large piece of Salmon, but the rice is terrible, mushy, not properly cooked and doesn't even taste like it's jasmine rice. The dish just tastes like grilled salmon over bleh rice with some flavored sauce, not like an actual red curry dish. The server only dished some sauce over the dish, not adding any of the leaves floating around in it. And why is red curry sauce an off white color?? I had high hopes for this place, they were quickly dashed.
(2)Jack K.
The quality is service is good just get their before the lunch crowd comes or you will find yourself in line for 20 min or more lol....love the salmon and rice !!!!!
(5)Karen F.
Still the best bang for the buck THAI food in the entire city. Salmon Curry Tom Kha that ROCKS. Love it!!! And still lovin' it years later and after trying lots of Thai places in Philly. (And elsewhere)
(5)Le Raccoon X.
Quality previously 5 stars. Hope there will be a turnaround soon. Their pad thai and thai curry are - or were, rather - the city's finest.
(4)Jerry C.
Watching employees heat up food in the microwave within the first 30 seconds of waiting on line.... Not a great look, but i can't say i disliked this place, in fact it was above average. ----CASH ONLY btw---- There was a HUGE line my first day inside of RTM so i passed, though if everyone else was into it it must be good so i decided to try it on my second day. Day 2, line was much smaller, i got the Red Curry Chicken, White Rice, Chicken Spring Roll and Extra Sauce. Cost was $9.50, It was a good amount of food, i couldn't eat it all. It had a decent flavor but the chicken could have been a bit more moist and tender. It was close to the dry side. For the price, quantity and taste it was definitely above average.
(4)Jessica S.
Yes, there is a reason that this place has a long-ass line when there are about 25 other places to eat in Reading Terminal Market alone. Huge plate of tasty Thai food for $5-$6. Uh, DUH. The thing is, I have definitely had better Thai food, but that is not to say that this place is not good. It's standard. I'll put it that way. It's tasty, satisfying, and will help feed you for the entire day. But standing in line in the Market, paying under $10 for an appetizer, meal, and beverage, and sitting in the Market to eat said feast is something that makes me smile in a special Philadelphia kinda way. And if you have friends/family visiting from out of town, you should help them experience this Philadelphia love. Something to note if you are into Thai cooking: You can buy fresh Thai ingredients from this place, stuff that is hard to find elsewhere (Kaffir lime leaves, galangal, thai chilis, etc).
(4)Dave H.
I love Thai food, especially when it's affordable. Heck, I ate here twice in one day! Their chicken basil ($5.50; cash only) is stand-up, stir-fried chunks of meat served with sweet basil, chili paste, onions, and bell peppers. If you prefer seafood, get their spicy shrimp bamboo shoot (5.50). It comes with the expected onions, bell peppers, and basil that make up a quality Thai dish, the whole lot stir-fried. Both dishes come with rice, as do most of their dishes. The cooking isn't bona-fide Thai, but it's pretty good, and you're saving a buck. While waiting for your grub - you won't wait long - peruse their grocery selection. Find Little Thai Market in the Reading Terminal Market. Remember, the market closes at 5 PM.
(4)Rob S.
I can't believe everyone loves this place! I just got done eating the famous salmon curry. It was decent, not great, not even that good. For $7.50 it's a good deal in center city. Huge portion of salmon, but I almost walked out the the line when I saw the cook place the salmon in the microwave. I couldn't believe my eyes. The put every price of salmon they serve in the microwave before they serve it! And they crazy thing is they do this right in front of everyone while people waiting in line! At least hide that microwave in the back or something! I can't believe I just ate microwaved salmon. But hey, like I said it was decent.
(3)Eleonora B.
It was the second time I wandered around the Reading Terminal Market. First time I tried the Mediterranean food there and the next time I went for Thai Food. I heard good things about the Little Thai Market, and upon arriving there I realized it might have been true, since there was a line there. Usually I am not disappointed by the food when I have to wait in line, and sometimes I do feel it's kind of weird to wait, sometimes for a long time, to get good food but on that day it was passed the lunch hour so the wait was not long and the people working there seemed well prepared and took my order super fast and got it ready even faster. I had Pad Thai with vegetables and a canned Thai Iced tea (Was pretty good actually). The pad Thai was very well seasoned, fresh and flavorful. A lot of people were taking Salmon in the line, (Businessmen looking people) I guess it's one of their top sellers. It did look pretty good and fresh. The steamed broccoli was just cooked right, crispy (perfect to me), the soy sprouts were very fresh and crispy as well. The perfect lunch on a busy day....And very affordable! That's a 5 stars for me!
(5)Jennifer B.
I wanted to go 4 stars here but I think a solid 3 or 3.5 stars is more appropriate. My Mom loves to order from here when she's down in the Reading Terminal Market. In fact I think she might order from here every time she's in the neighborhood. We were down in the city for the Philadelphia Flower Show, and no show is complete without a trip to the Reading Terminal Market. We had some lunch at a different destination and then decided to get some to go from the Little Thai Market. It's a small shop in the center somewhat typically with a long line as mentioned. Here's my ten cents: Salmon Curry - Tons of Salmon. You definitely get a very large portion for $6.50. As mentioned in other reviews it is heated up in the microwave, not the worst thing in the world but not great when I want fresh. To their credit it is very fresh just in a reheated kind of way. The curry sauce is thin and I wanted more of it to really give a punch of flavor. The broccoli is totally crisp and fresh. Chicken with Basil - Again, thin sauce and not as flavorful as I would like. You get a ton of chicken and veggies over rice and its yummy. Chicken Coconut Soup - Now this is what I would come here for! The chicken is plentiful with veggies and some mushrooms and then ladled over the protein and veggies comes the coconut broth with great depth of flavor. Now this is the soup dejour. I would come back for the soup every time and the other dishes are okay, just don't have enough Thai kick for me. No worries, I will be back on my next visit.
(3)Katey H.
Horrible experience. I've liked just about everything I've ever eaten at Reading Terminal Market, but not this! I ordered chicken pad thai - normal enough, right? Wrong. It took about 5 minutes to get the food and it was an ugly mess. The chicken did not look grilled like the pictures. The noodles tasted old and bad - like I would get sick if I continued to eat them. There was surprise tofu in my bowl - and a lot of it! And the chicken spring roll tasted like it had been sitting for a long time. I would never go back here nor would I recommend it to a friend. Nasty.
(1)Qiong L.
My very first review in Philly! Sadly, the excitement ends there. This little restaurant is nestled in the bustling busy Reading Terminal on 12th Street. Although I grew up in Philly, I never patronized any of the interesting little shops or restaurants at the Reading Terminal. I think I was always a little terrified of that place, to be honest. However, ever since I've moved back to the Philly area I have been dying to check this place out. So when my friend suggested going there for lunch one day, I happily accepted. There was a line! That's always a good sign! The menu was not extensive but it seemed promising. The line moved and I could see the buffet. I brightened like the fat kid I was at the yummy Thai food laid out for my eyes to enjoy. My belly was just inches away from devouring it. Then... the fat kid inside me screamed. I watched the chef place a plate of Salmon in the microwave. He then covered the fish in a blanket of curry and threw some broccolis over it. Um. Everything after that wasn't memorable at all. I ended up trying the Basil Chicken, which was bland but tolerable. My crazy and fearless friend ordered the Curry Salmon, which was dry. To be honest, I've had Thai food all my life and the food I had here just did not taste authentic. They even suck at being knock offs. Not trying it again. Toodles!
(2)Juliana K.
Fast Service and Cheap, but I've had way way better Thai food. Classic case of quantity over quality. The food is okay. You get TONS of rice. I got the Chicken Red Curry which was bland. Sauces are as thin as water and there is no spicy kick. Cash only!
(2)Megan K.
Little Thai Market was... alright. I can't really say anything great about the place, but I can't really place my finger on anything bad either. After scoping out some places I wanted to try in Philadelphia for a work trip, Little Thai Market popped up. The reviews were raving about the salmon curry, which piqued my interest as I normally don't venture into seafood based curries. Upon arriving at the Reading Market, there was a long line in front that I was willing to stand in. They give you two options for your base on the curry dish, either rice with a garnish of broccoli, or all broccoli. I decided to go with the standard of all rice so I could let all the flavors come through the dish. A very haggard employee took my order as he was helping to heat the salmon, grill the salmon, and fill the plates with orders. He came off as slightly rude, but I didn't hold this against him as he was managing to keep the line moving while fulfilling orders. A different employee was solely managing the cash register, which is cash only as many other reviewers have mentioned. I quickly got my food in spite of how long the line seemed, and I thought it was just mediocre. Sure, you get a large filet of salmon, but it lacked basic seasonings and flavor. I was happy that it didn't have the cheap "fishy" taste to it, but that's about where my enthusiasm ended with the dish. The curry sauce was thin and lacking in heat. I'm sure there are much better Thai choices in the city, but if I'm ever back in the area I'm definitely branching out.
(3)Sarah P.
It's the red curry that does it to me every time. I crave it like a fiend. The line may be long, but that's what you should be looking for in a place. Plan ahead and come between 11-12 before the lunch rush bombards this gem. Listen to what everyone else in line is ordering. "Red Curry Salmon." I prefer it with extra curry sauce. The salmon comes perfectly grill charred with broccoli on a bed of white rice in a nice takeaway container that you can reuse. CASH ONLY.
(4)Katelyn F.
Yum.... I had the spicy shrimp and bamboo shoots over rice. It was delicious and my friend agreed. She had the spring rolls and said they were nothing really to write home about. She also had the BBQ chicken appetizer and said it was very flavorful. We will definitely be back.
(4)Christina R.
The line was about a 15 minute wait, wrapped around the counter, but that's to be expected during lunch time. The line moved fast enough. The cashier was nice. I tried the Chicken Coconut Soup and the Vegetarian Pad Thai. The soup was awesome, tasted like other coconut soups I've had at great Thai places around the city. Very flavorful, not too much chewy on the chicken, lots of chives and cilantro, bay leaves and a few mushrooms. A great deal for $2.25/ pint. The Veggie Pad Thai, though, woof. Didn't even taste like Pad Thai. The noodles were really thin and mushy. And pink!? There were 2 quarter size pieces of tofu in the whole dish and it was mostly huge chunks of tasteless vegetables, including their huge stalks, and half the dish was bean sprouts. There was barely any flavor at all. I would not recommend. There are too many good Thai places around the corner from this one. No, they probably don't sell their Pad Thai for $5.50, but it may be worth the few extra bucks. The soup saved me from swearing this place off forever... I would go back, but I would try that salmon everybody is talking about.
(3)Danny L.
When they bring out a fresh platter of Pad Thai to serve I'm not sure there's another place in the city that can compete. The noodles just taste, right with the correct amount of sweetness and the noodles have the perfect tenderness and the portions are smaller than the other places you may frequent but thats okay because the prices are also cheaper than those other places. The salmon curry is also the bomb diggity even though it's more like a salmon donburi than a salmon curry.
(4)Fenty T.
I love this thai food..reasonable price and delish! They always busy..I luv their spring roll..sweet
(4)Valentina L.
Dunno why ranking so high by others~. It's an Ok place. Food were made very rough you can tell. Tasty, won't go again
(3)Ray L.
I don't quite get this place. Every time I'm walking around Reading Terminal figuring out a weekday lunch I see a line for this place. Really? And reviews on Yelp claim this is the best Thai food people have tasted... Okay, I get it. Thai food in Philadelphia stinks. In fact, let's do this--"Thai food" in Philadelphia stinks. But really? We're going to give this place 4 or 5 stars? Are people not tasting the same tasteless, watered-down curry sauce I'm tasting? Do we not realize that this is not what Pad Thai is supposed to taste like? Do you not see them throwing pre- and over-cooked fish and chicken into the microwave to heat up your meal? Oi.
(2)Alexandra C.
Solid 4 stars for sure. Thank you to Yelp for letting me find this place! I would have walked right past it while in the crowded market. Went with suggestion of salmon over rice with red curry. Red curry sauce was thin, lighter than i expected... Had good flavor but we both thought the dish needed some extra sauce to bring this up to 5 star. Salmon portion was huge - and so fresh, tender, delicious. Perfect somewhat-sticky rice. All around a great (and I'm assuming healthy) deal at only $6.50.
(4)Susan R.
Used to try somewhere new everytime i was at RTM, that changed when i stumbled upon little thai market. My three favorite things-- delicious, healthy and cheap. didnt know that was possible! Salmon, broccoli, and rice for $6... I think so.
(5)Tony O.
The shrimp pad thai is good. The salmon curry is good. The duck with pineapple on rice is good. The chicken spring rolls are good. The chicken kabob thing is good. The line, after 12:30, not so good. But the wait is definitely worth it. So what if they nuke it? For under $10 i'm not expecting AnthonyBourdain type service.
(4)Steve L.
Best Salmon Curry Dish EVER!!!!
(5)Jenn V.
wow- totally worth the line that wraps around this stand. The salmon curry is unbelievable- for $6 you get a huge chunk of perfectly cooked salmon over rice- ask for extra sauce - makes this dish 10x better!! FYI - it is cash only.
(5)Lowie T.
doesn't get any better than this! delicious salmon over rice w/ red curry - i get it every time. I can't imagine getting anything else from here. anytime i think of "maybe... chicken today..?" i always do a last minute switch to the salmon. it's fresh, flavorful, tender, big portions, and cheap! service is quick- remember to order from the server then pay at the cashier. if you order from the cashier she'll ask u if you told the server and that can get confusing, especially since there is usually a long line. you certainly don't wanna be THAT idiot who screws up the flow. get the red curry salmon w/ extra sauce! you will love it!
(5)Lan G.
One of the best Thai options around the city, especially when it is so affordable! My favorite is their pad thai, particularly the vegetable one and the chicken one. I keep seeing a lot of people get their salmon dish with broccoli so I assume that's a good one as well. Tip: Expect a long line if you get there after 12pm. But the line does go fast. Also, it's cash only.
(4)Mike G.
A slam dunk. That's what I was needing today. After a number of so,so or no,no kind of experiences I was jonesing for a 5 star review to start my day off, that and a cup of coffee. To say that Little Thai Market at the Reading Terminal Market is a gem, is no exaggeration. The prices are all around $5 per dish, though the Salmon is a tiny more and damn, it's worth way more than they charge. I love the basil chicken, like the pad thai and they're quick, affordable and most importantly.... CONSISTENT!
(5)Emily M.
I adore Thai food and work a block away from Reading Terminal Market, so Little Thai Market seemed like a gem when I first found it. It may be a gem to some, but for someone who loves Thai food for the rich taste and deep flavors, you may want to skip it. You definitely get what you pay for. I've had the red curry chicken, basil chicken, and coconut soup (with chicken). The Coconut Soup tastes the best, definitely some bang for $2 if you just need something quick. Both the chicken entree's come with a lot of meat and rice, but the sauce can be thin and oily. Pretty much what you expect for the price, but with a lot of food. I'm usually there after 3, so the food may be better earlier when the lines are crazier, but the chicken's taste and texture makes me think it's either been out all day, is low quality, or both. Once I had the basil chicken there around 4 on a Saturday and could barely finish half of it, I was so grossed out. However, everyone ahead of me in line gets the salmon curry. I'll probably try that next time since this is still one of the most affordable stands in the market, and no matter how painfully mediocre, I can't shake the Thai addiction.
(3)Payal P.
i don't really get the hype on this place. it is fine but nothing stands out to me. it always looks pleasing to the eye but they always precook the protein and reheat it when you order...i do not like that. there are way too many good options in the reading terminal market so unless you are REALLY craving thai, go somewhere else. but i know, i am in the minority.
(2)Julia C.
I love all the choices at Reading Terminal Market when I am shopping for my produce, etc. Not too long along ago, I was doing just that on a Saturday afternoon , and stopped to get dinner to take home. I always like what I get from Little Thai Market - that day I got the Shrimp Pad Thai. You can't beat the price! Also, the portion size is good. I was contented, as I always am. They have a good selection for Vegetarians, as well. I like to come here during the work week, if you can find a table in Reading Terminal Market. This restaurant takes CASH only
(4)Felicia C.
You will always find a long line at this place, and that is because it is probably the best and cheapest vendor in the whole Reading Terminal Market. Everyone I know loves this place, including me. The Chicken Red Curry is unbelievably good and only costs $6. The Salmon is fantastic. It's probably the most popular dish they serve. The chicken spring rolls are great and cheap. The coconut chicken (or shrimp) soup is so sweet and tasty. You can't go wrong at the Little Thai Market.
(5)Es K.
Tried the shrimp pad Thai during a very busy lunch day. It was delicious and fresh! The noodles were well seasoned and flavorful. The sauce wasn't too sweet. The shrimp was just added on top of the dish, so they were not overcooked. The dish also came with some steamed broccoli florets. Also had a chance to try the salmon curry. It was absolutely wonderful! The fish was grilled perfectly, and there was not a heavy fishy taste. Again, the dish came with broccoli florets. For take out, this was stellar!
(5)Sal W.
I read the review today, "Pad Thai - Best Pad Thai I've ever had. Perfect as the dish goes." Speaking of noobs.... Okay, so there was a long line and I read all the reviews. I think they are a bit overstated. I had the shrimp Pad Thai. Now it was good, for fast food, but it doesn't even come close to most sit down places where one dish at a time is made and not some massive batch that has been sitting around for an hour. There are like 6 things on the menu. It was cheap (6.48 with tax) and reasonable, but not much more. CASH ONLY! Food Quality/Taste = 3 Stars Portion Size Given Price = 3 Stars Price = 4 Stars Service = N/A Experience with Staff = 3 Stars
(3)John N.
I've been eating here for maybe 11-12 years now. Let me break down the menu: Pad Thai - Best Pad Thai I've ever had. Perfect as the dish goes. Don't be a noob and order it without peanuts or sprouts. I usually get the chicken, but the vegetable is great. Yellow Curry - My Gf's favorite dish on the menu. It's damn good sweet curry. Chicken Basil - Honesty, probably my favorite thing here. The perfect combination of flavors. Salmon in Curry Sauce - The biggest seller by miles. It's really good, and the piece is massive. Get it with shrimp and extra sauce. Curry Duck - Do NOT sleep on this! It's special order (takes about 15 min) but worth the wait. Some of the best duck I've ever had. Spring Rolls - Get them with everything you order. Chicken Skewer - Dark meat, almost pork-like, but the sauce is ballin and it's great, cheap on the good food. Service is excellent and fast. The lunch line can be one of the biggest in Reading, but it moves fast.
(5)Christine B.
So everyone was getting the salmon, but I went with the pad thai because its a good barometer. It was pretty delicious. The chicken gets added in to the noodles, and then bean sprouts, peanuts, cilantro, and a lime wedge. I could have used some more noodles and less bean sprouts, but the chicken was moist, and the noodles had a well developed flavor. By the time I got back to the office it was on the cold side, but still tasty. I'll definitely be back to try the salmon.
(4)Jennifer B.
I wanted to go 4 stars here but I think a solid 3 or 3.5 stars is more appropriate. My Mom loves to order from here when she's down in the Reading Terminal Market. In fact I think she might order from here every time she's in the neighborhood. We were down in the city for the Philadelphia Flower Show, and no show is complete without a trip to the Reading Terminal Market. We had some lunch at a different destination and then decided to get some to go from the Little Thai Market. It's a small shop in the center somewhat typically with a long line as mentioned. Here's my ten cents: Salmon Curry - Tons of Salmon. You definitely get a very large portion for $6.50. As mentioned in other reviews it is heated up in the microwave, not the worst thing in the world but not great when I want fresh. To their credit it is very fresh just in a reheated kind of way. The curry sauce is thin and I wanted more of it to really give a punch of flavor. The broccoli is totally crisp and fresh. Chicken with Basil - Again, thin sauce and not as flavorful as I would like. You get a ton of chicken and veggies over rice and its yummy. Chicken Coconut Soup - Now this is what I would come here for! The chicken is plentiful with veggies and some mushrooms and then ladled over the protein and veggies comes the coconut broth with great depth of flavor. Now this is the soup dejour. I would come back for the soup every time and the other dishes are okay, just don't have enough Thai kick for me. No worries, I will be back on my next visit.
(3)Katey H.
Horrible experience. I've liked just about everything I've ever eaten at Reading Terminal Market, but not this! I ordered chicken pad thai - normal enough, right? Wrong. It took about 5 minutes to get the food and it was an ugly mess. The chicken did not look grilled like the pictures. The noodles tasted old and bad - like I would get sick if I continued to eat them. There was surprise tofu in my bowl - and a lot of it! And the chicken spring roll tasted like it had been sitting for a long time. I would never go back here nor would I recommend it to a friend. Nasty.
(1)Qiong L.
My very first review in Philly! Sadly, the excitement ends there. This little restaurant is nestled in the bustling busy Reading Terminal on 12th Street. Although I grew up in Philly, I never patronized any of the interesting little shops or restaurants at the Reading Terminal. I think I was always a little terrified of that place, to be honest. However, ever since I've moved back to the Philly area I have been dying to check this place out. So when my friend suggested going there for lunch one day, I happily accepted. There was a line! That's always a good sign! The menu was not extensive but it seemed promising. The line moved and I could see the buffet. I brightened like the fat kid I was at the yummy Thai food laid out for my eyes to enjoy. My belly was just inches away from devouring it. Then... the fat kid inside me screamed. I watched the chef place a plate of Salmon in the microwave. He then covered the fish in a blanket of curry and threw some broccolis over it. Um. Everything after that wasn't memorable at all. I ended up trying the Basil Chicken, which was bland but tolerable. My crazy and fearless friend ordered the Curry Salmon, which was dry. To be honest, I've had Thai food all my life and the food I had here just did not taste authentic. They even suck at being knock offs. Not trying it again. Toodles!
(2)Juliana K.
Fast Service and Cheap, but I've had way way better Thai food. Classic case of quantity over quality. The food is okay. You get TONS of rice. I got the Chicken Red Curry which was bland. Sauces are as thin as water and there is no spicy kick. Cash only!
(2)Megan K.
Little Thai Market was... alright. I can't really say anything great about the place, but I can't really place my finger on anything bad either. After scoping out some places I wanted to try in Philadelphia for a work trip, Little Thai Market popped up. The reviews were raving about the salmon curry, which piqued my interest as I normally don't venture into seafood based curries. Upon arriving at the Reading Market, there was a long line in front that I was willing to stand in. They give you two options for your base on the curry dish, either rice with a garnish of broccoli, or all broccoli. I decided to go with the standard of all rice so I could let all the flavors come through the dish. A very haggard employee took my order as he was helping to heat the salmon, grill the salmon, and fill the plates with orders. He came off as slightly rude, but I didn't hold this against him as he was managing to keep the line moving while fulfilling orders. A different employee was solely managing the cash register, which is cash only as many other reviewers have mentioned. I quickly got my food in spite of how long the line seemed, and I thought it was just mediocre. Sure, you get a large filet of salmon, but it lacked basic seasonings and flavor. I was happy that it didn't have the cheap "fishy" taste to it, but that's about where my enthusiasm ended with the dish. The curry sauce was thin and lacking in heat. I'm sure there are much better Thai choices in the city, but if I'm ever back in the area I'm definitely branching out.
(3)Sarah P.
It's the red curry that does it to me every time. I crave it like a fiend. The line may be long, but that's what you should be looking for in a place. Plan ahead and come between 11-12 before the lunch rush bombards this gem. Listen to what everyone else in line is ordering. "Red Curry Salmon." I prefer it with extra curry sauce. The salmon comes perfectly grill charred with broccoli on a bed of white rice in a nice takeaway container that you can reuse. CASH ONLY.
(4)Katelyn F.
Yum.... I had the spicy shrimp and bamboo shoots over rice. It was delicious and my friend agreed. She had the spring rolls and said they were nothing really to write home about. She also had the BBQ chicken appetizer and said it was very flavorful. We will definitely be back.
(4)Christina R.
The line was about a 15 minute wait, wrapped around the counter, but that's to be expected during lunch time. The line moved fast enough. The cashier was nice. I tried the Chicken Coconut Soup and the Vegetarian Pad Thai. The soup was awesome, tasted like other coconut soups I've had at great Thai places around the city. Very flavorful, not too much chewy on the chicken, lots of chives and cilantro, bay leaves and a few mushrooms. A great deal for $2.25/ pint. The Veggie Pad Thai, though, woof. Didn't even taste like Pad Thai. The noodles were really thin and mushy. And pink!? There were 2 quarter size pieces of tofu in the whole dish and it was mostly huge chunks of tasteless vegetables, including their huge stalks, and half the dish was bean sprouts. There was barely any flavor at all. I would not recommend. There are too many good Thai places around the corner from this one. No, they probably don't sell their Pad Thai for $5.50, but it may be worth the few extra bucks. The soup saved me from swearing this place off forever... I would go back, but I would try that salmon everybody is talking about.
(3)Danny L.
When they bring out a fresh platter of Pad Thai to serve I'm not sure there's another place in the city that can compete. The noodles just taste, right with the correct amount of sweetness and the noodles have the perfect tenderness and the portions are smaller than the other places you may frequent but thats okay because the prices are also cheaper than those other places. The salmon curry is also the bomb diggity even though it's more like a salmon donburi than a salmon curry.
(4)Fenty T.
I love this thai food..reasonable price and delish! They always busy..I luv their spring roll..sweet
(4)Ray L.
I don't quite get this place. Every time I'm walking around Reading Terminal figuring out a weekday lunch I see a line for this place. Really? And reviews on Yelp claim this is the best Thai food people have tasted... Okay, I get it. Thai food in Philadelphia stinks. In fact, let's do this--"Thai food" in Philadelphia stinks. But really? We're going to give this place 4 or 5 stars? Are people not tasting the same tasteless, watered-down curry sauce I'm tasting? Do we not realize that this is not what Pad Thai is supposed to taste like? Do you not see them throwing pre- and over-cooked fish and chicken into the microwave to heat up your meal? Oi.
(2)Valentina L.
Dunno why ranking so high by others~. It's an Ok place. Food were made very rough you can tell. Tasty, won't go again
(3)Alexandra C.
Solid 4 stars for sure. Thank you to Yelp for letting me find this place! I would have walked right past it while in the crowded market. Went with suggestion of salmon over rice with red curry. Red curry sauce was thin, lighter than i expected... Had good flavor but we both thought the dish needed some extra sauce to bring this up to 5 star. Salmon portion was huge - and so fresh, tender, delicious. Perfect somewhat-sticky rice. All around a great (and I'm assuming healthy) deal at only $6.50.
(4)Susan R.
Used to try somewhere new everytime i was at RTM, that changed when i stumbled upon little thai market. My three favorite things-- delicious, healthy and cheap. didnt know that was possible! Salmon, broccoli, and rice for $6... I think so.
(5)Tony O.
The shrimp pad thai is good. The salmon curry is good. The duck with pineapple on rice is good. The chicken spring rolls are good. The chicken kabob thing is good. The line, after 12:30, not so good. But the wait is definitely worth it. So what if they nuke it? For under $10 i'm not expecting AnthonyBourdain type service.
(4)Steve L.
Best Salmon Curry Dish EVER!!!!
(5)Jenn V.
wow- totally worth the line that wraps around this stand. The salmon curry is unbelievable- for $6 you get a huge chunk of perfectly cooked salmon over rice- ask for extra sauce - makes this dish 10x better!! FYI - it is cash only.
(5)Lowie T.
doesn't get any better than this! delicious salmon over rice w/ red curry - i get it every time. I can't imagine getting anything else from here. anytime i think of "maybe... chicken today..?" i always do a last minute switch to the salmon. it's fresh, flavorful, tender, big portions, and cheap! service is quick- remember to order from the server then pay at the cashier. if you order from the cashier she'll ask u if you told the server and that can get confusing, especially since there is usually a long line. you certainly don't wanna be THAT idiot who screws up the flow. get the red curry salmon w/ extra sauce! you will love it!
(5)Mike G.
A slam dunk. That's what I was needing today. After a number of so,so or no,no kind of experiences I was jonesing for a 5 star review to start my day off, that and a cup of coffee. To say that Little Thai Market at the Reading Terminal Market is a gem, is no exaggeration. The prices are all around $5 per dish, though the Salmon is a tiny more and damn, it's worth way more than they charge. I love the basil chicken, like the pad thai and they're quick, affordable and most importantly.... CONSISTENT!
(5)Lan G.
One of the best Thai options around the city, especially when it is so affordable! My favorite is their pad thai, particularly the vegetable one and the chicken one. I keep seeing a lot of people get their salmon dish with broccoli so I assume that's a good one as well. Tip: Expect a long line if you get there after 12pm. But the line does go fast. Also, it's cash only.
(4)Emily M.
I adore Thai food and work a block away from Reading Terminal Market, so Little Thai Market seemed like a gem when I first found it. It may be a gem to some, but for someone who loves Thai food for the rich taste and deep flavors, you may want to skip it. You definitely get what you pay for. I've had the red curry chicken, basil chicken, and coconut soup (with chicken). The Coconut Soup tastes the best, definitely some bang for $2 if you just need something quick. Both the chicken entree's come with a lot of meat and rice, but the sauce can be thin and oily. Pretty much what you expect for the price, but with a lot of food. I'm usually there after 3, so the food may be better earlier when the lines are crazier, but the chicken's taste and texture makes me think it's either been out all day, is low quality, or both. Once I had the basil chicken there around 4 on a Saturday and could barely finish half of it, I was so grossed out. However, everyone ahead of me in line gets the salmon curry. I'll probably try that next time since this is still one of the most affordable stands in the market, and no matter how painfully mediocre, I can't shake the Thai addiction.
(3)Payal P.
i don't really get the hype on this place. it is fine but nothing stands out to me. it always looks pleasing to the eye but they always precook the protein and reheat it when you order...i do not like that. there are way too many good options in the reading terminal market so unless you are REALLY craving thai, go somewhere else. but i know, i am in the minority.
(2)Julia C.
I love all the choices at Reading Terminal Market when I am shopping for my produce, etc. Not too long along ago, I was doing just that on a Saturday afternoon , and stopped to get dinner to take home. I always like what I get from Little Thai Market - that day I got the Shrimp Pad Thai. You can't beat the price! Also, the portion size is good. I was contented, as I always am. They have a good selection for Vegetarians, as well. I like to come here during the work week, if you can find a table in Reading Terminal Market. This restaurant takes CASH only
(4)Felicia C.
You will always find a long line at this place, and that is because it is probably the best and cheapest vendor in the whole Reading Terminal Market. Everyone I know loves this place, including me. The Chicken Red Curry is unbelievably good and only costs $6. The Salmon is fantastic. It's probably the most popular dish they serve. The chicken spring rolls are great and cheap. The coconut chicken (or shrimp) soup is so sweet and tasty. You can't go wrong at the Little Thai Market.
(5)Es K.
Tried the shrimp pad Thai during a very busy lunch day. It was delicious and fresh! The noodles were well seasoned and flavorful. The sauce wasn't too sweet. The shrimp was just added on top of the dish, so they were not overcooked. The dish also came with some steamed broccoli florets. Also had a chance to try the salmon curry. It was absolutely wonderful! The fish was grilled perfectly, and there was not a heavy fishy taste. Again, the dish came with broccoli florets. For take out, this was stellar!
(5)Sal W.
I read the review today, "Pad Thai - Best Pad Thai I've ever had. Perfect as the dish goes." Speaking of noobs.... Okay, so there was a long line and I read all the reviews. I think they are a bit overstated. I had the shrimp Pad Thai. Now it was good, for fast food, but it doesn't even come close to most sit down places where one dish at a time is made and not some massive batch that has been sitting around for an hour. There are like 6 things on the menu. It was cheap (6.48 with tax) and reasonable, but not much more. CASH ONLY! Food Quality/Taste = 3 Stars Portion Size Given Price = 3 Stars Price = 4 Stars Service = N/A Experience with Staff = 3 Stars
(3)John N.
I've been eating here for maybe 11-12 years now. Let me break down the menu: Pad Thai - Best Pad Thai I've ever had. Perfect as the dish goes. Don't be a noob and order it without peanuts or sprouts. I usually get the chicken, but the vegetable is great. Yellow Curry - My Gf's favorite dish on the menu. It's damn good sweet curry. Chicken Basil - Honesty, probably my favorite thing here. The perfect combination of flavors. Salmon in Curry Sauce - The biggest seller by miles. It's really good, and the piece is massive. Get it with shrimp and extra sauce. Curry Duck - Do NOT sleep on this! It's special order (takes about 15 min) but worth the wait. Some of the best duck I've ever had. Spring Rolls - Get them with everything you order. Chicken Skewer - Dark meat, almost pork-like, but the sauce is ballin and it's great, cheap on the good food. Service is excellent and fast. The lunch line can be one of the biggest in Reading, but it moves fast.
(5)Christine B.
So everyone was getting the salmon, but I went with the pad thai because its a good barometer. It was pretty delicious. The chicken gets added in to the noodles, and then bean sprouts, peanuts, cilantro, and a lime wedge. I could have used some more noodles and less bean sprouts, but the chicken was moist, and the noodles had a well developed flavor. By the time I got back to the office it was on the cold side, but still tasty. I'll definitely be back to try the salmon.
(4)Jenn C.
The salmon curry is so worth the long wait. I say I'll try something else,and I never do. The price ($6.50) is a bargain (a lot of food). The sauce (mild flavor) is more like a broth,so ask for extra. I tried the coconut chicken soup and it was good. Pay attention when you're eating it though...some seriously hard ingredients floating around that will break a tooth or two. Also, don't be a lazy piggy (like me),and order another salmon curry for the next day. Doesn't taste the same. At. All.
(4)T N.
3 words: Chicken, red, curry. Everyone gets the salmon, and I get it, it's good and it's a super value. Trust me though, getting the salmon is like agreeing to a date with a guy you think is terrific, only to find out his brother is George Clooney. The one you've got is still pretty great, but the other one has an Oscar and a house in Italy. I worked a block from Reading Terminal market for two years and in that time accomplished my goal of eating repeatedly at every eatery, but the place I kept coming back to was Little Thai Market. The chicken red curry is outstanding: just spicy enough, plenty of coconuty goodness, big chunks of chicken, red peppers, and bamboo shoots. It's delicious and for under $8 you can get it with a couple of spring rolls and save half for lunch tomorrow.
(5)Chris W.
Wow what a great lunch spot. I have not had Thai food this delicious since visiting San Francisco. I knew I was in for a treat when there was a 30 person line already at noon. I patiently waited and eventually got to sample the salmon curry, Thai salad, and shrimp pad Thai. All were $6 each and hit the spot. The salmon curry was the standout. A ton of meat piled on flurry rice covered in their special curry sauce. Next time I will be asking for extra sauce. The Thai salad had tender chicken and a perfect balance of flavors. I loved the hints of lime and loved the overall refreshment factor. The shrimp pad Thai got off to a non 5 star start but once I worked my way down and got the sauce in every bite I was officially in heaven. Next time I just need to find a way to get some heat into the mix. Definitely a can't miss lunch spot in Reading Terminal, and that's saying something.
(5)Meg B.
That's right the secret is out! This little place in the middle of the Reading Terminal Market is a huge find! $5.50 for a bowl of rice and freshed steamed broccili topped with this delicious, melt in your mouth pan seared salmon that seeps it's yummy sauce throughout the rice. You can't get a fine piece of salmon like this anywhere! You can't go wrong with their pad thai either- $5.50 for a heaping lunch portion is the best for the money I have seen in the city ( note for the money, some of my favs like Aqua are worth paying the extra price). If you are looking for good Thai, check this baby out!
(5)Danan R.
The chicken basil is fantastic and inexpensive to boot. Which leaves me with enough cash to get an order of pad Thai to go. Love it! It might not be gourmet Thai orchid food but it is still delicious.
(4)Denise W.
The best Thai food I have ever had. The salmon curry over broccoli and rice was delicious. The coconut shrimp soup was absolutely the best. The Lady at the counter was so nice and the line moved quickly. My dining partner love my food too!.
(5)Erica M.
I went and got the salmon red curry following everyone else's suggestions. The flavor was delicious, but the salmon was a bit oily. I think next time I'll go back, I will get the curry with veggies and/or chicken rather than the salmon. However, it was quite yummy and I DEFINITELY had plenty of leftovers!
(4)Michael B.
What more is there to say? The salmon is one of the must-try dishes of the RTM. The delicate salmon, the light curry sauce... It's really great. Another hit is the spicy shrimp. Give it a try if you can resist the salmon. (Unfortunately, though, it's the dish that reveals Little Thai Market's weakness: its crap plastic silverware. It is not an exaggeration to say that I've had difficulty cutting through shrimp. SHRIMP! BYO butter knife.)
(4)Elisha C.
I'm a Pad Thai junkie. The problem is that, in my neighborhood at least, most Thai is in huge portions that I don't want to pay quite so much for. But whenever I'm in Center City, Little Thai Market is the place to go. The prices are great, the food is excellent. And the portions are just right for lunch - by which I mean I can devour about half of it, reseal the plastic container, and take the other half home for a perfect midnight snack. I'd be happy spending so little for just one meal of great food - getting enough to feed me twice is just an added perk!
(4)Jennie H.
I always get lost trying to find this place every time I'm in the Reading Terminal Market. When I'm in the mood for fast, cheap, and delicious Thai food, this is the place for me. I've tried their Red Curry Salmon, Chicken Basil, and Shrimp Pad Thai and they were all wonderful. My usual is their Chicken Basil. What I love about this place is that their food is always consistent, service is friendly, and best of all... it's cheap! :).
(4)Dave L.
Had some chicken with red curry sauce for lunch yesterday and was happy that I picked Little Thai Market among all the food choices available at Reading Terminal Market. With a Coke I was on my way for under $8. Portion size was huge, ingredients fresh, and chicken tender. The staff was a wee bit grouchy - but for the food quality and price it was a wash. Cash only. Might have to go back for that salmon later in the week.
(4)Peter M.
The chicken yellow curry is amazing. It's simple, but delicious. Chicken, rice, potatoes, onions, & yellow curry. It has a nice sweetness to it. Under $10.
(5)Dayna R.
Probably the most delicious salmon that has ever entered my mouth. The salmon with red curry sauce is amazing, and you cannot beat the price for the portion size! The line can sometimes be a little slow, but it is worth it.
(5)Christina K.
My first thought when hearing Little Thai Market is "Mmmmm, Salmon with red curry", while drooling of course. I've only been here twice, but once is enough to get you hooked for life. They have their little mini assembly line when taking orders which is good, therefore you're not waiting till you get to the cashier to place your order. However, there will always be a line, so being patient is a real virtue in this aspect. Regardless of the wait, it is always worth it in my book. Tender moist salmon with their delicious and flavorful red curry, crisp veggies and delightful sticky rice. It is truly heaven in a white take out container. I haven't tried any of their other dishes yet, but I plan to, considering all the other reviewers raving about them.
(4)John B.
I like this little spot. Their coconut tom yum? soup always satisfies. I see that some folks are complaining that it lacks complexity? It does lack a bit of sour flavor, but I like it just fine. The soup has a lot of bay leaves and lemongrass stalks...you have to fish them out. It's salty and sweet...it's just awesome. The noodles aren't very great, I agree. The noodles aren't made by order, so it's something to be expected. But their salmon is really good though. It has really smoky flavor. My wife doesn't like salmon, especially Atlantic salmon, but she likes this salmon. I advise that you get it with extra sauce, which adds the extra kick that might lack if you don't get it with extra sauce. Overall, it's cheap, fast, reliable food (at least for the soup and the salmon dish). And that's the combination that's hard to come by these days.
(4)Jennifer N.
I returned to Little Thai Market yesterday for lunch. I must adjust my review. I ordered the grilled salmon again, this time with extra sauce. The salmon was as I remembered -- moist, tender and huge. Seriously, when I got back to my office, I promptly cut the salmon in half and stored for Wednesday's lunch. What I was a little disappointed in was the red curry sauce. It is more watery than creamy, and lacks a bit of flavor. It's still a good meal in a pinch, and a terrific bargain ($7.02, I believe with the extra sauce). I will surely return.
(3)Vinay P.
*******Please note that this review is based only on the Pad Thai******* So, I went to this place for lunch after reading the rave reviews on Yelp. When I got to the place, the long snaking line seemed to justify the reviews I was really craving some Pad Thai and ordered the Vegetable Pad Thai (I'm not vegetarian but I didn't feel like eating meat on that day). First impression - the Pad Thai was red in color - unlike any Pad Thai that I've had before but well, it wouldn't matter as long as it tasted good. It was pretty cheap ($5+taxes) for Thai food When I did start eating though, the Pad Thai had a strong sea food smell (fish/shrimp) smell on it although I ordered the vegetable Pad Thai. It didn't bother me, but for someone who is a staunch vegetarian, this could be a deal breaker. It tasted devoid of any thai flavor. The vegetable pieces were few and far in between, there was very little peanut and I could hardly taste the peanut sauce in it Add to this, there were pieces of various meat - I found pieces of chicken, shrimp and pork. Again, I just threw them aside and continued eating, but for someone who is a strict vegetarian, this will definitely be a deal breaker I could finish only about three quarters and threw the rest. I might go there again and order the Red Curry or the Salmon that people love so much, but I'm NEVER ordering the Pad Thai from here again
(1)Andrew S.
4 stars because it is all premade in vats but that also makes it quick. Not the caliber of bangkok street food but authentic and filling. I had the red chicken curry which was moderately spicy, well flavored, and filling. It came over a bed of rice for a reasonable price. Of note, a lot of people seemed to be ordering duck, salmon which were not premade but took 15 min or so, which was time I didnt have. No credit cards FYI
(4)Shannon M.
I've eaten here twice and ordered the same thing both times: the chicken pad thai (boring I know!). Each time I watched them prepare the salmon dish that everyone seems to rave about and it does look delicious. Unfortunately, the chicken pad thai isn't that great. Sure it's okay for a quick $6 Thai fix but I've definitely had better. I suggest ordering hot sauce on the side as the flavor is a bit bland. Maybe next time I'll buck up and just go with the salmon?
(3)Veronika V.
Salmon, Salmon, Salmon, Salmon. If I had to choose a last meal, their salmon with extra sauce and extra broccoli would be it.
(5)Nerissa L.
This is one of my favorite places to grab lunch when I have the extra time. The phad thai is always good, as in the red curry, and the tom kha gai (coconut milk soup). And even though every time I go there I tell myself that I'll try the salmon you see everyone ordering during the huge lunch rush - I still have yet to do so. The only two down falls of this place are the big line during lunch time, and that it's cash only.
(4)Gregory N.
This place is akin to the Soup Nazi in Seinfeld: seriously. During the workweek lunch hour, there's a line down the aisle. The locals (I am one) rave about this place. You can't go wrong. As the others have said, the salmon with red curry is a chart topper. I had shrimp coconut soup. It looked bland, had white coconut broth, and not much more, but it was damn good. If you have an appetite, you can order salmon w/ shrimp + red curry sauce. It's what I had today. Really wonderful. $8. But I do second the popular opinion: ask for extra sauce. All the extra protein left some room desired for the sauce. And it's like crack. Put the pipe to your lips.
(5)Naseem E.
This place isn't fancy, the staff isn't particularly friendly, I think it's cash only, they charge you "extra" for additional sauce and looming above is an unfriendly "no refunds" sign, but the food is delicious and cheap. Can't go wrong with that. My favorites: Tom Ka ($2 for HUGE portions!!!!), Pad Thai, Basil Chicken, Salmon Red Curry, Yellow Curry, Red Curry Chicken, Papaya Salad. Everything is good. Overall, a fantastic value for your money. The meat/seafood portions are fabulous.
(4)Carrie G.
I am ashamed to say that the guy who works here around 5:30 pm on Mondays knows exactly who I am and exactly what I order. I always, without fail, order the salmon curry with extra curry sauce. It's $7.02 with tax, and it's enough food for a meal and a snack. Heavenly. Seriously, though. The extra curry sauce is really important. If you don't order it, your rice will be dry by the end.
(4)Anthony S.
Sometimes you pay a lot for food and the food is good, but not excellent. However, the service was incredible and makes the price worth it. Other times the food is cheap, and makes you feel as if you just drank a bucket of Crisco and a block of Velveeta. Little Thai Market is cheap and delicious. The food comes quick, even when a line is starting to wrap around the side of their "stall". Highly recommended for the vegetarians out there. The nice thing about their location as well, is that you can go find dessert in the form of some local fruit or baked goods. The bad thing about their location is that it is tourist central, which makes for great people watching. Sometimes I like my AZN cuisine to be found in an out of the way strip mall.
(5)Kelly P.
monstrous portion... i'm a self-proclaimed rice addict, and when i get a dish with a dollop of rice instead of a mountain, i am peeved. the amount of rice i received here today for lunch with my chicken basil bumped this review from a 4 to a 5. the dish was awesome. if i had any self control at all i would have saved a portion for lunch tomorrow. but i dont. so i didnt.
(5)Karen B.
ok, it's no secret that if you go to reading terminal -- anywhere in reading terminal -- around lunchtime, you're gonna wait in line. which can be annoying. especially if you're not familiar with your chosen vendor and can't be sure the wait is worth it. so i'll spare you the anguish of uncertainty. little thai market is totally worth it! hearty portions at low prices (cash only, btw). my staple: the deliciously coconutty red curry vegetables (although judging by other reviews, apparently i should get the salmon next time). the curry's sufficiently creamy without being too heavy and turning into a tantrum-throwing colicky food baby post-consumption. and with any of their dishes, unless you're a cousin of miss piggy like i am, you'll likely get two meals out of one order. so, go ahead and wait in that line.
(4)Joyce T.
delicious & enormous salmon with curry sauce for below $7
(5)Miss Z.
Like everyone else, I am a huge fan of the salmon curry. For 6 bucks, I get a great lunch that usually allows me to skip dinner altogether (and go straight to dessert). The ladies in the back work their tails off during lunchtime to get that salmon out the door. It's crazy how everyone knows to get the salmon - it all feels kinda soup nazi-ish. But these people are nice. And if they were like the soup nazi, I would still go. It's that good. Try their yummy spring rolls as well. I'm off to get one now ;)
(4)Michelle N.
The long line and the fact that everyone raves about this place, would normally be a turn off for me. But the line moves fast and it's cheap and the food is excellent. The quality and the flavor is as good as I've had for 3x the price at a nicer sit down Thai restaurant. Portions are large. Only complaint is entrees (chicken basil, red curry) could be a litle spicier for my liking, but I understand this is cafeteria style preparation and made to please the masses.
(5)Larry L.
Little Thai Markets salmon dish is the best salmon I have ever had. Thin grilled with a sweet curry sauce. I like half-rice extra broccoli extra sauce. I go half rice because It doesn't matter how much they give me, when it's sitting in the curry sauce I can't help but eat it all! Also, you can buy their red curry sauce, but they won't give you the recipe (I've already asked)
(5)Lene P.
I'm not a real Thai eater, I pretty much ONLY get the salmon dish, the egg rolls, and the BBQ skewers here. They are SO tasty! I love it! This is my favorite lunch spot at RTM. However, this place is also the reason I learned to NOT come around lunch time. The line can snake all around the stand. It moves pretty quickly, though, except when they have to cook more food, then you're screwed, haha. I haven't been here in a long time, but when I come back, I know I'll be ordering that salmon again. YUM.
(4)A K.
I've been frequenting this favorite stop on my lunch rotation for about 7 years now. Two words: Salmon Curry. I always ask for mine with extra broccoli, no rice. I've never been disappointed in that order. I always get an order of the Chicken Spring Rolls to go with it. The Pad Thai is just OK. The shrimp they use are of low quality...tail-on, pre-cooked, which have NOT been de-veined. A pet peave of mine. Usually they taste like iodine, so I steer clear. The chicken option is nothing special. I stay away. So i suggest the Vegetable Pad Thai as the best of the three options. The other dishes are not my thing. But I've tried them all. And I'm still a frequent customer. The owners are great people. Trust me on that. They know how to treat a repeat customer who is otherwise a complete stranger.
(4)Kat L.
Portion and price wise, this place is great. Flavor and the quality of the food is subpar. The curry salmon is only $6.50 and they give you a HUGE piece of salmon with rice. I found it disappointing that they are so stingy with the broccoli though. Even though the fish was good, the overall flavor of the dish was very much lacking. It only tasted like a pale version of real Thai food. The red curry chicken was $6 and with that, you get a good amont of chicken and vegetables. The flavor of this dish was somewhat better but it still left a lot to be desired. I also tried the coconut chicken soup and this was the WORST. The soup did not have any coconuty taste. It tasted like it had vinegar in it! Disgusting.
(2)Candice R.
Having worked downtown and frequenting the Reading Terminal Market often for lunch....this is one of the hidden gems. The line is always long at lunchtime (a good sign no?) and most folks are getting my favorite dish....the grilled salmon in a coconut curry sauce over steamed rice and broccoli. For a great meal under $10, it can't be beat. Do yourself a favor and try it out.
(4)Erin A.
I only get the chicken yellow curry. It's so good that I just can't bring myself to get anything else. Its a great spot to grab lunch. They have $2 chicken and lemongrass soup that's acutally big enough for a meal size portion. My friend always gets the salmon so it must be good but like I said, I'll never know.
(5)Stephanie S.
Love! Love! Love! this place... I walk here at least 3 times a week during lunch for the salmon (I work on spring garden). It's reasonably priced and gets crowded quick. I love the little containers the food comes in and Its just the right portion to fill you up. I've become addicted!
(4)Candace C.
ehh, the pad thai was ok, but the big juicy shrimp in it redeemed it. it is just a little weird that the shrimp wasn't cooked into the pad thai. the curry is better here. salmon filets are super popular! everyone around me was getting it. if im in the mood for thai, ill stick to erawan.
(3)Kaitlin L.
Who cares if the line is wrapped around their stand? It's worth the wait. The food is all pre-made so there is a really quick turn around anyway. Solid, consistent thai food. I think the most expensive thing on the menu is $6 (Salmon w/ red curry sauce..a-mazing). Worth looking out for when going to reading terminal.
(4)Bill C.
The food here is incredible and a great value. I am addicted to the salmon and eat it at least once a week. The portion sizes are ridiculously large. Occasionally, there is a salmon filet that is not quite as massive as is the norm for them, to make up for this, they give you 2 filets. I love those days. This really is a perfect meal, the entrees here will never leave you feeling hungry but wont put you in a food coma either. Listen, if you like hot (good hot, not burn your mouth hot), then ask them for a side of hot sauce. They have dixie cups of sriracha ready at the counter for the asking. They also sell the sriracha by the bottle (although you can find in cheaper at a chinatown grocery store).
(5)Sarah F.
Little Thai Market is cheap, fast, and tasty. My friends and I used to go every Saturday for a hangover cure. For 3 bucks you can get a huge side of rice with curry sauce and a coke. The salmon is good, as well as the coconut shrimp soup and the spring rolls. The guy that works the register is really nice and remembers your order after you show up enough times.
(5)Jennifer O.
I so wanted to go here to get a pregnancy spice fix, but unfortunately, they use MSG in everything.
(3)Sara L.
The Little Thai Market is a great place in Reading Terminal to grab lunch or pick up an easy take-home dinner. Most of their dishes fall into the "cheap and adequate" category, as they are obviously prepared in bulk and kept in warming trays for quick service. For the prices and the quantity, I am okay with this. Their salmon red curry really stands out as excellent - the fish is char-grilled pretty much as it is being ordered and is served with rice and a little side of broccoli topped with tasty red curry sauce. This might be the best meal you can get in the city for $6.00 ($6.50 if you want extra sauce).
(3)whitney h.
Little Thai Market is the jewel of reading terminal. Fast cheap and so full of flavor. The salmon is my go to dish but the curry chicken is a close second my friends. My advice to you is to check it out soon and always get extra curry sauce. khraawng mitr!
(4)James R.
I will give this place 4 stars because the food is very good. The only reason I don't give it 5 is because I was looking for a place with very authentic Thai food. Having lived in Thailand for 7 years I really crave the foods I used to get at all the little markets. Fancy places rarely have these dishes, and I was hopeful that this place might. In the end, it's what I'd call 'americanized thai food', but it is very tasty and well priced.
(4)Dawn W.
I was really psyched up for this place after reading the reviews and seeing the long line around the counter. Almost everyone ahead of me ordered the salmon, which did look good, but I went with shrimp pad thai. The pad thai was just okay. The noodles were good, but they were cold. There were too many bean sprouts on top and I could barely make it through to the noodles. The shrimp were a good size and I think there were 5 or 6, making it a good value, if the shrimp weren't cold! I saw the lady pick out a few shrimp from a bowl sitting on the counter for my dish, no heat at all. The flavor was okay, but not as good as expected. I'll go back just to try the salmon, but I would not get the pad thai again. Pho Xe Lua, Viet Thai Restaurant on Race St. a few blocks away is much, much better and my favorite place in Chinatown!
(2)Megan T.
I had salmon in red curry sauce... I wish my office is in center city,, so I can go there evey lunch!!!
(5)Dredge K.
A Thai stall in Reading Market, the food is ready made and waiting in buffet trays, so there is no waiting. You can sit at numerous tables scattered through the market. Ok for a quick to-go order, and the portions are a good size, but as far as Thai food goes, not so tasty. I got the lemongrass soup with chicken, yellow curry chicken, and salmon, based on what I had read on here. The soup was too salty / fish saucy and lacked the complexity / aromatic flair it should have (e.g. more galangal and lemongrass). The yellow curry was simple and bland. The salmon was well cooked and a good portion for the price, but the sauce lacked the typical Thai kick. It needed more basil, more lime, more chili, more umph. It reminded me of mall food court food. I thought I could make every one of these dishes better. I am not Thai, but I have to confess, I have lived in both Thailand and Thailand's foreign province of Los Angeles.
(2)Katy D.
You absolutely cannot beat the price and the flavor of this place. I've tried almost everything and have never been disappointed. The portions are right on, while at other Thai places, they can be too small. I also buy Thai cooking ingredients from there, which can be really expensive if you get them at the supermarket or the spice terminal. The staff is friendly too and very fast. I only wish they would make some fresh Thai iced tea... the canned stuff just isn't as good!
(5)Ashley T.
Their Salmon and Rice is AMAZINGGGGGG (about $8) and enough for two meals. Delicious, perfectly cooked salmon, crunchy broccoli, and fast service. Located in Reading Terminal Market
(5)Donte P.
So, my coworker told me about this place so, of course, I had to try it. First, I stopped by on a Sunday only to discover they were closed! I tried again the following Saturday. When I got there the line was very long. I ordered Curry Salmon with shrimp. Waited in line for about 10-15 minutes but it was well worth it. Not a bad price either. It was a little over $10 for my lunch. The salmon was grilled and laid on top of white rice and broccoli. Then they add raw shrimp and ladle curry sauce over everything! Absolutely delicious and worth the wait in line and I'm not even mad they were closed went I went on Sunday! If you're near Reading Terminal Market in Philly you gotta stop by and try this place!!!
(5)Jared J.
That Little Thai Market located in the heart of Reading Terminal Offers some legit Thai food to go at fair prices. With long lines that move quicker than you think, Little Thai Market might be a good option for lunch in the area. I tried the Salmon Curry which was really big. Honestly the portion was too big to finish after downing a coconut soup. The flavors were there but not perfect, and the broccoli was a nice touch, however I would rather have more veg and less mounds of coconut rice. On a final note the coconut soup was a bit watery. Everything at Thai Market is A-OK
(3)Leah Y.
Excellent first off let me say if your in a rush and your here during lunch hours the line is super long and people will wait for their foods, every time I come here I order tge salmon and rice With extra sauce and broccoli. I brought my mom who was visiting from nyc and she cant get enough of the salmon and rice, when you dont know what to eat in. THIS PLACE WILL NEVER FAIL YOU.
(4)Nina d.
This place is so consistently delicious. I've had the famous salmon and it's so so flavorful. The pork is just as yummy, as well as the chicken red curry. Their sauces are just packed with flavor and you won't be disappointed. But then there's the chicken lemongrass coconut soup. Oh. My. Word. I can't even begin to describe it. There's so many notes that hit your mouth. The size just isn't adequate. Wish I could have some now!!!!
(5)Suzy G.
Still love the food, but sort of sad that it is now crazy busy....good for the owners, not so good for the customers. I don't come here as often as I used to because the lines are just too long now, and I barely have enough time to eat my food before I have to jet back to the office. I miss the days when it was my little secret place to have lunch really cheap with much shorter lines and wait times. Also, the price has gone up considerably since I've started coming here. I remember way back when it only cost about $5.00 for the Salmon in curry sauce.
(4)Bill M.
There is ALWAYS a line here usually wrapped around the corner and down to the next merchant - but that is because it is worth it! Absolutely love the Basil Chicken served over rice. The Salmon is extremely popular (and tasty) as you hear order after order of that called out. Not a huge fan of the spring rolls but I have definitely had worse. As noted by a few other people they aren't the friendliest and it's very much a 'next' 'next' 'next' mentality - I guess I don't mind that since all orders are to-go and you head over to the main seating area in the market if you want to eat there. I'm not there for a hug and a smile - I'm there to grab lunch and go so it's all good.
(4)Nisar C.
The reviews are pretty spot on. Yes the lines are long. Yes the guy may seem rude, but he was preparing like 20 dishes, probably doesn't know a lot of english. And yes, the red curry salmon was fucking delicious. Worth the wait. and it was fairly cheap. Good size portion for the price. I also had the thai chicken and coconut soup, it wasn't bad, and the chicken spring rolls, they were pretty big rolls and they were pretty good too. Pretty solid place for lunch.
(4)Mike M.
the line is terrible but thats because the food is amazing! 7 bucks for a huge piece of salmon with a creamy coconut sauce. with rice and veggies too. stop reading and go eat!
(5)April L.
I ordered the salmon curry, it wasn't anything special; just a big chunk of salmon over rice. The salmon tasted like it was microwaved before grilling it. This place had a long line so I thought it would be good but it was a serious disappointment. If you guys think this is good, then you haven't had any authentic thai food. Just saying...
(2)Anne K.
Long lines during peak hours for lunch, but they have the best salmon and shrimp red curry in the city!
(5)Yangy L.
We got the basil chicken, spicy shrimp with bamboo shoots, and salmon curry for takeout. The ordering process is very efficient, and the prices are good. The best dish is the salmon curry, the sauce they pour over the salmon is really delicious and you get rice, broccoli, and a good amount of salmon for the money. The other two dishes were just okay. I noticed that the shrimp was in another container and only combined with the spicy bamboo when they pack it. This prevents the shrimp from soaking in the flavor from the sauce =[. The basil chicken was not tender and the flavor was meh.
(3)Kay B.
I've been coming here for many years! At first it seemed to be my little secret Thai place. I would get their spring rolls and bamboo curry dishes. One day my Fiance came with me him being Laos saw some type of secret menu.. .something that wasnt in the buffet. Salmon over rice with a red curry coconut base poured over it. That was the start to something wonderful! Now the secret is out and people from all over the city come just for that Salmon :-( somedays they run out on me. Its a great dish that some people add shrimp to (I dont know why)I kinda wished it would have stayed my little secret (hehehe) oh I also love the small little Market with all types of Thai groceries you can buy to concoct ur own Thai dishes!!
(4)Augustina G.
I feel like this place is highly overrated and is given high marks by those who do not frequent Reading Terminal Market or even Philadelphia. During lunchtime, as expected with many stalls in the market, lines can be very long and this one is definitely not an exception. I recommend avoid going between 12 and 1:30. You better be ready when you hear "next....next...next" to place your order. Clearly, it's very robotic service. The salmon, I'll admit is quite good. You get a large piece of fish that's on the thin side with 2-3 pieces of broccoli. A big problem I have with this place is the microwave! The salmon is microwaved shortly before it is served to you. The curry sauce is very good and definitely not bland. I've had the chicken with basil and wasn't that impressed. Same goes for the spring rolls, but the dipping sauce is very good.
(2)Marianne A.
The only place in Reading terminal market that had a line at 11:40 am...and it was definitely with the wait! A line-stander recommended the salmon curry and it did not disappoint! A massive, tender piece of salmon grilled (and warmed in microwave) atop a bed of rice and broccoli, smothered in a "red?" curry sauce.. (more beige in color) was lunch and dinner in one sitting. Tip: If you order the vegetable curry you can skip to the head of the line. So delish!
(5)Michael B.
Food is excellent but you have to wait every time even when there is nobody in line. Employees are cold. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone. Also, the cross contaminate utensils; using tongs to serve the Salmon and to pick up chicken and noodles. I'm not sure who they pay off in the health dept. And they manage to forget your soda or spring rolls every time. I just had to say something.
(1)Tobin Y.
The service has stepped up their game both with the food and customer service. The only reason they don't get five stars is because of the long lines.
(4)Howard L.
Red curry salmon so good I have to lick the bowl. Embarrassing in front of people? Screw them!
(5)JiaJia T.
Tasty Salmon curry with extra sauce for 7 bucks and change. Seriously nothing in life beats delicious and satisfying meal at a bargain price. The salmon was moist and well seasoned, the curry was well balanced and the jasmine rice soaked up all the flavor!
(4)Jack K.
The quality is service is good just get their before the lunch crowd comes or you will find yourself in line for 20 min or more lol....love the salmon and rice !!!!!
(5)Lilia S.
Perhaps there isn't any great Thai food in Center City? I don't get all the rave reviews for this place calling it the best Thai in the city. I have ordered the salmon curry twice and it is in no way authentic Thai food. The portion of food is plentiful, especially the large piece of Salmon, but the rice is terrible, mushy, not properly cooked and doesn't even taste like it's jasmine rice. The dish just tastes like grilled salmon over bleh rice with some flavored sauce, not like an actual red curry dish. The server only dished some sauce over the dish, not adding any of the leaves floating around in it. And why is red curry sauce an off white color?? I had high hopes for this place, they were quickly dashed.
(2)Karen F.
Still the best bang for the buck THAI food in the entire city. Salmon Curry Tom Kha that ROCKS. Love it!!! And still lovin' it years later and after trying lots of Thai places in Philly. (And elsewhere)
(5)Le Raccoon X.
Quality previously 5 stars. Hope there will be a turnaround soon. Their pad thai and thai curry are - or were, rather - the city's finest.
(4)Jerry C.
Watching employees heat up food in the microwave within the first 30 seconds of waiting on line.... Not a great look, but i can't say i disliked this place, in fact it was above average. ----CASH ONLY btw---- There was a HUGE line my first day inside of RTM so i passed, though if everyone else was into it it must be good so i decided to try it on my second day. Day 2, line was much smaller, i got the Red Curry Chicken, White Rice, Chicken Spring Roll and Extra Sauce. Cost was $9.50, It was a good amount of food, i couldn't eat it all. It had a decent flavor but the chicken could have been a bit more moist and tender. It was close to the dry side. For the price, quantity and taste it was definitely above average.
(4)Jessica S.
Yes, there is a reason that this place has a long-ass line when there are about 25 other places to eat in Reading Terminal Market alone. Huge plate of tasty Thai food for $5-$6. Uh, DUH. The thing is, I have definitely had better Thai food, but that is not to say that this place is not good. It's standard. I'll put it that way. It's tasty, satisfying, and will help feed you for the entire day. But standing in line in the Market, paying under $10 for an appetizer, meal, and beverage, and sitting in the Market to eat said feast is something that makes me smile in a special Philadelphia kinda way. And if you have friends/family visiting from out of town, you should help them experience this Philadelphia love. Something to note if you are into Thai cooking: You can buy fresh Thai ingredients from this place, stuff that is hard to find elsewhere (Kaffir lime leaves, galangal, thai chilis, etc).
(4)Dave H.
I love Thai food, especially when it's affordable. Heck, I ate here twice in one day! Their chicken basil ($5.50; cash only) is stand-up, stir-fried chunks of meat served with sweet basil, chili paste, onions, and bell peppers. If you prefer seafood, get their spicy shrimp bamboo shoot (5.50). It comes with the expected onions, bell peppers, and basil that make up a quality Thai dish, the whole lot stir-fried. Both dishes come with rice, as do most of their dishes. The cooking isn't bona-fide Thai, but it's pretty good, and you're saving a buck. While waiting for your grub - you won't wait long - peruse their grocery selection. Find Little Thai Market in the Reading Terminal Market. Remember, the market closes at 5 PM.
(4)Rob S.
I can't believe everyone loves this place! I just got done eating the famous salmon curry. It was decent, not great, not even that good. For $7.50 it's a good deal in center city. Huge portion of salmon, but I almost walked out the the line when I saw the cook place the salmon in the microwave. I couldn't believe my eyes. The put every price of salmon they serve in the microwave before they serve it! And they crazy thing is they do this right in front of everyone while people waiting in line! At least hide that microwave in the back or something! I can't believe I just ate microwaved salmon. But hey, like I said it was decent.
(3)Eleonora B.
It was the second time I wandered around the Reading Terminal Market. First time I tried the Mediterranean food there and the next time I went for Thai Food. I heard good things about the Little Thai Market, and upon arriving there I realized it might have been true, since there was a line there. Usually I am not disappointed by the food when I have to wait in line, and sometimes I do feel it's kind of weird to wait, sometimes for a long time, to get good food but on that day it was passed the lunch hour so the wait was not long and the people working there seemed well prepared and took my order super fast and got it ready even faster. I had Pad Thai with vegetables and a canned Thai Iced tea (Was pretty good actually). The pad Thai was very well seasoned, fresh and flavorful. A lot of people were taking Salmon in the line, (Businessmen looking people) I guess it's one of their top sellers. It did look pretty good and fresh. The steamed broccoli was just cooked right, crispy (perfect to me), the soy sprouts were very fresh and crispy as well. The perfect lunch on a busy day....And very affordable! That's a 5 stars for me!
(5)