One of My Favorite Lunch Stops in Manhattan, KS, Baan Thai
When people ask me where to find some of the best international food in Manhattan, KS, Baan Thai is always one of the first places that comes to mind. Tucked along Fort Riley Boulevard, this local favorite has been serving authentic Thai cuisine to the Little Apple community for well over a decade and has built a loyal following of college students, military families, locals, and visitors alike.
Located at 1709 Fort Riley Boulevard in Manhattan, Kansas, Baan Thai sits in the former Taco Casa building, just west of downtown Manhattan. The restaurant originally opened in Manhattan in 2011 before moving into its current location, which provided a larger dining room and a more spacious atmosphere while keeping the same recipes and familiar faces that customers had grown to love.
A Little Taste of Thailand in the Little Apple
One of the things I appreciate most about Baan Thai is that it offers something a little different from the typical restaurant experience in Manhattan. While Manhattan has no shortage of burgers, barbecue, and college-town favorites, Baan Thai brings the vibrant flavors of Thailand right here to the Flint Hills. Their menu is packed with everything from curries and noodle dishes to stir-fries, soups, seafood specialties, and fresh salads. Whether you're someone who loves bold spice or prefers milder flavors, there's a dish for almost every palate.
If you're visiting for the first time, Pad Thai is often the gateway dish for many people. Their version features classic Thai rice noodles stir-fried with egg, green onions, and bean sprouts. Curry lovers can choose from several options, including red curry, green curry, yellow curry, Panang curry, and Massaman curry. The menu also features specialties such as Khao Soi, a northern Thai noodle soup that has become a favorite among regulars, along with unique dishes like Pumpkin Curry, Crazy Noodles, and Baan Thai Drunken Chicken.
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One thing that stands out about Baan Thai is the variety. Vegetarians have plenty of options, seafood lovers will find an entire section dedicated to seafood favorites, and families appreciate that there is even a kids' menu available. It's the kind of restaurant where everyone at the table can find something they enjoy.
For many Manhattan residents, Baan Thai has become a comfort-food destination. It frequently appears in local restaurant recommendations and "favorite places to eat" discussions whenever people are talking about the Manhattan dining scene. Over the years, it has earned a reputation as one of the go-to spots for Thai food in the Flint Hills region.
The restaurant also offers carryout, delivery, catering, and dine-in service, making it just as convenient for a quick weeknight dinner as it is for a sit-down meal with friends and family.
One fun fact many people don't realize is that the name "Baan" means "home" in Thai. That feels fitting because after more than a decade in Manhattan, Baan Thai has become a familiar part of the local food scene. It's one of those places that longtime residents recommend to newcomers, K-State students discover during college, and many people continue returning to long after graduation.
If you're exploring Manhattan, Kansas, and looking for something beyond the usual chain restaurants, Baan Thai is worth adding to your list. Whether you're craving a steaming bowl of Tom Yum soup on a cold Kansas day, a plate of Pad Thai after work, or a rich curry packed with flavor, you'll find a little taste of Thailand right here in the heart of the Little Apple.
Baan Thai Restaurant Information
Location: 1709 Fort Riley Boulevard, Manhattan, KS 66502
Phone: (785) 320-5990
Hours: Open daily with lunch and dinner service
Known For: Pad Thai, Khao Soi, Thai curries, seafood specialties, fresh spring rolls, and authentic Thai cuisine in Manhattan, Kansas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baan Thai in Manhattan, KS
Where is Baan Thai located in Manhattan, KS?
Baan Thai is located at 1709 Fort Riley Boulevard in Manhattan, Kansas, making it an easy stop whether you're coming from downtown, Kansas State University, or Fort Riley.
What type of food does Baan Thai serve?
Baan Thai specializes in authentic Thai cuisine, including curries, noodle dishes, stir-fries, soups, fried rice, fresh spring rolls, and seafood specialties. The menu also includes vegetarian-friendly options.
What is Baan Thai known for?
Many locals rave about the Pad Thai, flavorful curries, and Khao Soi. If you're trying Thai food for the first time, Pad Thai is a great place to start.
Is Baan Thai good for lunch or dinner?
Both. It's a popular lunch destination for people working nearby and a favorite dinner spot for families, students, and visitors exploring Manhattan.
Does Baan Thai offer takeout?
Yes. Baan Thai offers takeout, making it a convenient option for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy night at home.
Is Baan Thai close to Kansas State University?
Yes. It's just a short drive from the K-State campus and is a favorite among students, faculty, and Manhattan residents.
Does Baan Thai have vegetarian options?
Yes. The menu includes several vegetarian-friendly dishes and can accommodate a variety of preferences.
Is Baan Thai worth visiting if you're traveling through Manhattan, Kansas?
Absolutely. If you're looking for something beyond the usual chain restaurants, Baan Thai is one of the local favorites that gives visitors a taste of the diverse food scene in the Little Apple.
