Location: Thai A Roy Dee, Leeds (opposite Merrion Centre)

Cuisine: Thai

Time visited: Lunch

Prices: £10–£20

BYOB? Yes

Happy Hour: Most weekdays, lunchtime specials

Website: N/A

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Step inside Thai A Roy Dee and it feels like one of those restaurants you stumble into while travelling — humble decor, small space, laminated menus, and packed tables. It’s easy to miss from the street, but if you’re judging by the queue at the door during lunch hours, you’ll quickly realise this place has a loyal following.

THE FOOD

Let’s get to it — the yellow chicken curry is what brought us in, and it absolutely hit the spot. Creamy, slightly sweet, with a comforting turmeric base and soft potatoes melting into the sauce. The chicken was tender, generously portioned, and soaked up the curry beautifully. Served with jasmine rice, it’s the kind of dish that makes you pause between bites.

We also tried:

• Som Tum Salad – zingy, fresh, and punchy with lime, fish sauce and shredded green papaya. Easily one of the most authentic versions we’ve had in the UK.

• Pad Thai – a little sweet for our taste, but loaded with prawns and tofu, with the right chewy texture.

Don’t expect fancy presentation — the flavours do the talking here.

SERVICE & SETTING

This is where opinions split. If you’re expecting polished, Western-style service — this isn’t it. But if you come in with a relaxed mindset and a bit of cultural respect (as one loyal reviewer put it), you’ll find the staff warm, honest, and quick to serve. Plates come out fast, water refills are quick, and if you’re nice — they’ll often throw in a smile too.

Some online reviewers have criticised the service, while others praise its authenticity and straightforward vibe. From our visit: it’s busy, it’s real, and it works.

THE VERDICT

Thai A Roy Dee isn’t for show — it’s for flavour. If you want generous portions, proper Thai spice levels, and that unbeatable yellow chicken curry, this is the spot. It’s not perfect, but for the price and quality, it’s easily one of the best-value Thai meals in Leeds.

Best for:

• Casual lunch

• Takeaway cravings

• BYOB nights with mates

• Quick stop before the First Direct Arena

Top dishes to try:

• Yellow Chicken Curry

• Som Tum (Papaya Salad)

• Pad Kra Pao (Spicy Basil Chicken)

• Tom Yum Soup (hot, sour and a proper winter cure)

Come for the curry, stay for the no-nonsense charm. You might not get silver service, but you’ll leave full and planning your next visit.