Banana Leaf
If you’re in the mood for an unforgettable dining experience in Philadelphia, Banana Leaf Restaurant is the place to be. Located at 1009 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19107, this cozy yet classy spot offers a perfect mix of flavors that will transport you straight to Southeast Asia. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Banana Leaf provides an ideal setting for a casual yet refined meal with friends or family.
When it comes to the food, Banana Leaf doesn’t disappoint. The menu features a range of dishes that are beloved by both regulars and newcomers alike. If you’re looking to kick off your meal with something crispy, the Roti Canai is a must-try. This flaky, buttery flatbread is perfect for dipping into a curry sauce. For noodle lovers, Pad Thai and Thai Basil Noodles offer the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy. And if you're in the mood for something a little more unique, Mee Siam will take your taste buds on a ride with its tangy, noodle-based dish. Don’t forget to try the Mango Chicken, a delicious mix of tender chicken with a sweet, zesty mango sauce.
The vibe at Banana Leaf is just as inviting as the food. With a moderate noise level and a casual yet classy atmosphere, it’s an excellent choice for group dining, making it ideal for a night out with friends or a family gathering. The restaurant is kid-friendly, so it’s a great spot for those dining with little ones. The welcoming and relaxed environment ensures that everyone feels at home, whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner or celebrating a special occasion.
Banana Leaf is the kind of place where you can unwind, indulge in mouthwatering Southeast Asian dishes, and enjoy great company. Whether you're a fan of Thai cuisine or just love trying new flavors, this restaurant is sure to impress.
Reviews
What a hidden gem! Had the chicken wings, spinach/shrimp paste, and the pad thai. The wings were super crunchy! The spinach with shrimp paste is million out of ten!! Amazing service, very attentive.
Food: In my opinion, I think they have one of the best value Pad Thais in the city. The noodles and chicken are perfectly cooked and perfectly saucy; generous portions. My favorite dish is the seafood tom yum rice noodle soup. The soup is nice and sour (which I love) but lacks a little spice. I always get a side of chopped chilis and then it is perfect. They have a generous amount of seafood and vegetables. We also always get the roti canai. Sometimes the texture can be a little too soft and doughy instead of nice and crispy. However, the chicken curry is consistent and flavorful. There is usually a piece of chicken and potato in it. Service: It is speedy and friendly. They checked in on us often. Ambiance: It's no frills. They have a well designed interior and it's huge. I would recommend making a reservation for a larger group (8+). They may require you to spend a certain amount. BYOB!
Always a reliable spot when in Philly. The satay is a big hit, particularly the chicken one. Even the pickiest of eaters would gobble them up. Service is friendly and prompt, and never have to wait long for a table despite the size of the party. BYO, make sure you stop by when you are in the area.
Located in Chinatown Philly, this tucked away spot was very busy on a Friday night! They brought out my order almost immediately but after waiting 10 mins, we still did not have my husband's entree. Not sure if the order was misplaced but after asking our server they were finally able to bring it out a few minutes later. I ordered the Nasi Lamek with rendang chicken. It was delicious home cooking. The bone in chicken thighs were moist and the sauce was deliciously seasoned. Rendang is considered a dry curry so less liquid than your typical curry. Paired with the cucumber and boiled egg, it kind of reminded me of a Vietnamese dish, thit kho but with chicken instead of pork. My husband ordered the calamari. Unfortunately it was overcooked and dry. The slices were thin so that all you could taste was the flour breading that it was fried in. After the long wait, it just added insult to injury.
Excellent in every way! Food, service, atmosphere! Quite reasonable price. Next time in area, will go extra distance to visit this cafe!!!