Paul and Jan Phillips are ready to experience some Thai Orchid cuisine.
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Dive into the heart of the Goulburn Valley’s culinary scene with Jan and Paul Phillips. Every Friday, the pair will serve our readers with their knowledge of our communities’ restaurants, cafés and pubs — one plate at a time.
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This week, we had the pleasure of sampling the cuisine at Thai Orchid Restaurant, and it was a delightful experience. The staff were attentive and thoughtful, and the food was excellent. What more could you ask for?
Next February, Thai Orchid will celebrate 20 years under the same ownership — a remarkable achievement in today’s challenging culinary and hospitality climate.
The restaurant features numerous elements that enhance its Thai ambience, including an authentic Thai taxi (a tuk-tuk), adding flair and interest. The booths are designed to resemble traditional Thai eating huts, commonly found in the middle of paddy fields, for workers to rest and eat. While they are set low to the ground to preserve authenticity, they are also adapted for Western comfort. The decor has a distinctly Thai feel, and the fish tank is a wonderful attraction for both young and old.
Our host, Graham Murphy, warmly welcomed us and provided a great overview of the restaurant. Conveniently located opposite Queen's Gardens in Shepparton, it’s a treat to order takeaway and enjoy your Thai meal in the beautiful gardens, celebrating our glorious weather.
Graham’s family had a significant financial win in Queensland more than 20 years ago, which allowed this Scotsman and his wife to open the restaurant and become a wonderful part of the Shepparton community.
Thai Orchid has been a favourite dining spot for many locals. While writing this article, ‘Butch’ walked by and asked who we were writing about this week; when we mentioned Thai Orchid, he enthusiastically responded, “This is one of my favourite places to go, and they have really good food,” which we wholeheartedly agree with.
Thai Orchid was among the first in Shepparton to adopt a contactless takeaway service during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Graham expressed deep appreciation for his staff and customers who supported their efforts, shared how challenging those early days of the pandemic were and how grateful he was that the community supported and continues to support Thai Orchid.
We sampled their curry puffs, spring rolls, roti bread with satay sauce, beef and cashew stir-fry, and a wonderful green chicken curry. The wine and drinks menu was excellent, and they cater to various food intolerances. It is an all-round great place to go.
The restaurant is open from 5pm to 8.30pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday. On Friday and Saturday, the hours are from 5pm to 9pm. It is closed on Mondays.
Food pricing for Thai Orchid, rated by Jan and Paul: $$
(Expensive $$$, moderate $$ good value $)
Roti bread, curry puffs and spring rolls.
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Graham (centre) with his wonderful Thai Orchid team.
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Iris is serving up plates of Thai flavour.
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Savoury and crunchy delight in the way of a beef and cashew stir-fry.
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Served beautifully in a bowl, the vibrant flavours of green chicken curry.
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Graham and his original tuk-tuk.
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