Tuk Tuk Thai Kitchen

Aside from serving excellent food, Tuk Tuk Thai Kitchen has one clear goal: to make customers feel like they’re in Thailand, without having to leave Porirua. One peek inside the extravagant restaurant should convince you they do a pretty darn good job of just that.

Tuk Tuk occupies an expansive space in the heart of central Porirua, and an immense amount of detail has been poured into the fit out—no single inch was passed over. “Touches of Thailand in every corner” was the idea, and there’s certainly loads of Thailand here. A striking wall of bamboo stretches up on one side, naturally drawing eyes upwards and around the spacious dining area. Bamboo can also be spotted across the ceilings, in the form of light fittings overlooking the ornate furniture below.

A selection of exquisite rugs lends warmth to the cool tiled floor while plenty of greenery around the restaurant adds to the sense of freshness and vibrancy. And with an effortless flow to the outdoor dining space, the place hums even more in summer.

The food, as expected, is on point and is some of the most authentic Thai you’ll find in the region. Those who have been following Tuk Tuk from the start will be familiar with the menu which harks back to the establishment’s food truck origins. The Padt Thai and Thai Green Curry remain crowd favourites, continuing to hold their own alongside the expanded offerings. If you’re wanting to branch out, the Thai Masamunn Curry with lamb shank is known to receive a lot of plaudits.

A true institution in Porirua, Tuk Tuk Thai Kitchen is certainly more than a place for a good meal. The team says they’re out to educate their customers through the medium of food, taking them on a flavoursome journey to Thailand. It’s a lesson you won’t want to skip.