Thai Elephant Bistro

- 815 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281

For residents and visitors of Arizona seeking an authentic and delightful journey into Southeast Asian cuisine, look no further than Thai Elephant Bistro. Located conveniently in the heart of Tempe, this restaurant has established itself as a premier destination for those who appreciate the complex, fresh, and aromatic flavors of traditional Thai food. The bistro offers a welcoming atmosphere that is often described by local diners as beautifully decorated and equipped with a wonderful ambiance, making it perfect for anything from a quick, satisfying lunch to a relaxed, memorable dinner with family and friends.

Thai Elephant Bistro prides itself on serving a wide variety of time-honored dishes, ensuring that both newcomers to Thai cuisine and seasoned enthusiasts will find something to savor. From zesty salads to rich, comforting curries and unique House Specialties, the menu is designed to showcase the diversity of Thai culinary tradition. The establishment is dedicated to providing an attentive and accommodating experience, with friendly staff ready to help guide patrons through their selections. This focus on both authentic flavors and quality service makes it a standout choice for local Arizonans searching for exceptional Thai dining.

A quick glance at the offerings reveals the depth of the menu. Diners can begin their meal with classic appetizers like the crispy Thai Veggies Rolls, the unique Thai Sweet Potatoes, or the savory Satay Chicken skewers served with peanut sauce. The salad selection includes popular options like the refreshing Green Papaya Salad and the vibrant Mango Salad, both offering a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spice. When it comes to soups, the famously fragrant and flavorful options are all present, including Tom Yum and Tom Kha, which can be customized with various proteins, including seafood options like shrimp, scallop, mussel, fish, and calamari. The menu ensures that every preference, from mild to authentically spicy, is catered to.

Thai Elephant Bistro is ideally situated to serve the greater Tempe and surrounding Phoenix-area community. Its physical address is:

815 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA

This location on West University Drive places it in a highly accessible area of Tempe, making it an easy drive for those living throughout the Valley of the Sun, including Mesa, Scottsdale, and Chandler residents. For those traveling from nearby Arizona State University (ASU), it is a convenient spot for a dine-in meal or a quick takeout order. The surrounding area generally offers easy navigation, though as with any popular Tempe location, it is wise to plan for local traffic during peak dining hours. The bistro is equipped with accessible seating, ensuring comfort for all guests who choose to dine in.

Thai Elephant Bistro provides a comprehensive range of service options designed to fit the busy lifestyles of Arizona locals. Whether you prefer a traditional dining experience or the convenience of enjoying Thai flavors at home or the office, the bistro has an option for you.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full experience within the restaurant's beautifully decorated, inviting atmosphere, complete with full table service.
• Outdoor Seating: Take advantage of Tempe's beautiful weather with comfortable seating options outside the restaurant.
• Delivery: Order your favorite Thai dishes and have them delivered directly to your home or workplace for maximum convenience.
• Takeout (Pickup): Place your order by phone or online and quickly pick it up at the counter for a fast meal solution.
• Catering: Plan your next event, business lunch, or party with authentic Thai cuisine through their dedicated catering service.
• Accepts Reservations: To secure your table, especially during peak dinner times or for larger groups, reservations are accepted.

This Tempe establishment offers several features that enhance the dining experience beyond just the food. These highlights contribute to its reputation as a favorite local Thai spot in Arizona.

• Full Beverage Selection: The bistro’s offerings include a selection of Alcohol, Beer, and Cocktails, perfect for pairing with your meal or enjoying during happy hour. Coffee is also available. Note: some customers have suggested expanding the hard liquor selection, but the existing bar options are popular for a reason.
• Vegetarian Options: Catering to all dietary preferences, the menu explicitly includes a variety of vegetarian options, such as the Buddha Tofu Salad, alongside many dishes that can be prepared meat-free.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Thai Elephant Bistro is known for its welcoming 'Crowd' profile, making it a great destination for dining out with the whole family.
• Diverse Dining Times: They are open for both Lunch and Dinner, offering different menu options or specials throughout the day.
• Payment Versatility: The restaurant accepts a range of modern payment options, including Debit cards and NFC mobile payments, for an easy and quick checkout.
• Ambiance and Decor: Diners consistently praise the wonderful atmosphere and beautifully decorated interior, which elevates the meal from simply eating to a true dining experience.

Should you need to place a takeout order, make a reservation, or inquire about catering services, here is the essential contact information for Thai Elephant Bistro:

Address: 815 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
Phone: (480) 966-0351
Mobile Phone: +1 480-966-0351

The true draw of Thai Elephant Bistro for the Arizona community is the quality and authenticity of its cuisine. While customers generally agree that the flavors are excellent, with certain dishes being particularly praised, it is important to review the menu and its offerings carefully.

Many patrons point to the House's Specialties as true standouts, which include must-try items like the flavorful Madness Duck, the popular and rich Ruby Curry Fish (hot), and the classic Sweet & Sour Fish. These dishes often provide a more unique and compelling culinary experience than standard Thai fare. The soups, such as Tom Yum and Tom Kha, are frequently noted as delightful and robust in flavor. For those seeking fresh and unique options, the Mango Salad and Green Papaya Salad are excellent choices.

The dessert menu offers a delicious conclusion to any meal, featuring items like the rich Coconut Ice Cream, the distinctive Thairamisu, and the tropical Mango Cheese Cake.

While some customer feedback suggests that certain items, such as the Veggie Rolls or the overall pricing, might be perceived as a little high for the portion size, the consensus is that the quality and authentic flavors are generally very good. For instance, the Avocado Green Curry has been specifically highlighted as "really good." When choosing what to order, focusing on the highly-rated curries, specialty fish preparations, and traditional noodle or rice dishes is a guaranteed path to a satisfying experience. It is worth noting that while they offer authentic Thai spice levels, some guests report that the “Thai Hot” may be milder than expected, so if you truly crave heat, it may be worth clarifying your preference with the accommodating staff.

In conclusion, Thai Elephant Bistro stands as a strong contender for the best Thai food experience in the Tempe area of Arizona. It successfully combines a professional and engaging dining environment with a menu full of authentic, well-regarded Thai flavors and a wide array of services, ensuring it remains a local favorite.

Thai Elephant Bistro

815 W University Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA