When dining at Mekong Thai Cuisine, it’s not just about the food—it’s also about the perfect drink to complement every bite. Thai cuisine is known for its bold flavors, spicy chilies, and rich curries, so balancing your meal with a refreshing beverage is essential. From traditional Thai favorites to fusion mocktails and cool herbal infusions, the right drink can elevate your entire dining experience.
In this article, we’ll explore 7 must-try beverages at Mekong Thai Cuisine and why they’re the ideal pairings for your favorite dishes. We’ve also included extra recommendations and fun facts to help you enjoy your Thai feast to the fullest.
1. Thai Iced Tea (Cha Yen): The Iconic Sweet Companion
Thai Iced Tea is the go-to drink at any Thai restaurant, and Mekong Thai Cuisine serves it just right. This creamy orange-hued tea is brewed from strong Ceylon or Assam tea, sweetened with condensed milk, and poured over crushed ice.
Why it pairs well:
It’s sweet and milky—perfect for taming the heat of spicy dishes like Tom Yum Goong or Pad Kra Pao. The cooling effect and rich flavor balance out chili-heavy entrées beautifully.
Pro Tip: Add a boba (tapioca pearl) upgrade for a fun, chewy twist.
2. Thai Iced Coffee (Oliang): Bold, Bittersweet, and Refreshing
If you’re a coffee lover, don’t miss out on Thai Iced Coffee, also known as Oliang. This traditional drink is made by steeping dark roast coffee with cardamom and a touch of sugar. It’s then poured over ice and topped with sweetened condensed milk or evaporated milk.
Best paired with:
Rich curries like Massaman or Green Curry. The bittersweet flavor cuts through creamy coconut sauces while giving you an energizing boost.
Fun Fact: Oliang literally means “black iced”—and it can be ordered with or without milk.
3. Lemongrass Cooler: A Zesty Herbal Infusion
For something light and invigorating, the Lemongrass Cooler is a standout. Mekong Thai Cuisine infuses fresh lemongrass with mint, lime juice, and a hint of honey. Served over ice, this herbal drink is both refreshing and subtly citrusy.
Why it works:
Lemongrass naturally complements Thai herbs used in soups and stir-fries. It’s a refreshing contrast to strong flavors like garlic and fish sauce.
Great with: Stir-fried dishes like Pad Thai or Pad See Ew.
4. Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: A Colorful, Calming Drink
If you’re looking for a drink that’s both photogenic and packed with antioxidants, try the Butterfly Pea Flower Tea. This electric blue drink is made from butterfly pea flowers, which change color when lemon or lime is added—often turning a lovely shade of purple.
Ideal pairing:
This tea’s light floral notes go well with fried starters like Thai fish cakes or spring rolls. Its acidity and freshness reset your palate between bites.
Instagram-worthy moment: Stir in the lime juice at your table and watch the magic happen.
5. Coconut Water: Naturally Sweet and Hydrating
When the spice gets intense, fresh coconut water is your best friend. Served straight from the coconut or chilled in a glass, it’s lightly sweet and ultra-hydrating.
Best with:
Spicy salads like Som Tum (papaya salad) or chili-heavy stir-fries. The natural electrolytes help you cool down and feel refreshed.
Bonus: Rich in potassium and antioxidants, it’s also great for digestion.
6. Mango Smoothie: Tropical Sweetness in Every Sip
A Mango Smoothie at Mekong Thai Cuisine is more than just a drink—it’s practically dessert in a glass. Made with ripe mangoes, crushed ice, and a splash of coconut milk or yogurt, it’s creamy, thick, and wonderfully tropical.
Pairs well with:
Dry and savory dishes like Thai BBQ Chicken or grilled pork skewers. The natural sweetness of mango brings balance and delight.
Optional: Ask for less sugar if you’re watching your intake—mangoes are naturally sweet!
7. Thai Basil Mojito (Non-Alcoholic): Herbaceous and Cool
One of the more creative drinks on the menu is the Thai Basil Mojito—a mocktail that combines Thai basil leaves, lime, soda water, and a touch of palm sugar syrup. It’s fizzy, green, and refreshing.
Best for:
Heavier meals like fried rice, noodles, or mixed appetizers. The herbal notes cleanse the palate while the fizz adds a fun texture.
Twist: Add lemongrass or cucumber for a garden-fresh variation.
8. Pairing Drinks Based on Spice Levels
Thai cuisine’s heat level varies widely. Whether you’re eating something mildly sweet or five-alarm spicy, knowing how to pair your drink can enhance your experience.
Mild Dishes (Pineapple Fried Rice, Mango Sticky Rice) – Pair with Thai Iced Coffee or Mango Smoothie.
Medium Spicy Dishes (Green Curry, Pad Thai) – Try Thai Iced Tea or Lemongrass Cooler.
Very Spicy Dishes (Pad Kra Pao, Tom Yum Soup) – Go with Coconut Water or Butterfly Pea Flower Tea.
9. Drinks for Dessert Pairing
Don’t skip drinks when dessert arrives. Thai desserts like mango sticky rice or coconut custard deserve a thoughtful pairing too.
Mango Sticky Rice – Pair with Thai Basil Mojito for a contrast of textures.
Taro or Banana Fritters – Go for Lemongrass Tea to cut the richness.
If you prefer ending your meal on a light note, a cold Butterfly Pea Flower Tea with lime is both relaxing and helps with digestion.
10. Customizing Your Drink Experience
Mekong Thai Cuisine often allows customizations, which is perfect if you’re sensitive to sugar or spice. When ordering drinks:
Ask for reduced sugar if you prefer a lighter drink.
Request extra lime or mint for herbal or citrusy enhancement.
Try boba or jelly add-ins with your Thai Iced Tea or Mango Smoothie for a fun texture twist.
Also, if you have dietary restrictions—like vegan, dairy-free, or caffeine-free—there are drink options available to suit every need.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Thai Meal With the Right Drink
Dining at Mekong Thai Cuisine isn’t just about savory dishes and spicy curries—it’s also about what you sip in between. Whether you’re cooling off with a tall glass of Thai Iced Tea, hydrating with fresh coconut water, or treating yourself to a mango smoothie, the right drink can truly complete your Thai feast.
Each of the seven drinks listed here complements specific dishes, offering balance, contrast, and refreshment. The next time you visit Mekong Thai Cuisine, skip the usual soda and reach for a drink that’s crafted to enhance your meal, Thai-style.
FAQs About Drinks at Mekong Thai Cuisine
1. Do the drinks contain a lot of sugar?
Many Thai drinks, especially Thai Iced Tea and smoothies, do contain sugar or condensed milk. However, you can request a reduced-sugar version or ask for customization.
2. Are there vegan drink options available?
Yes! Drinks like the Butterfly Pea Flower Tea, Lemongrass Cooler, and Thai Basil Mojito are naturally vegan. You can also request your Thai Iced Tea or Coffee with plant-based milk if available.
3. Can I order these drinks for takeout or delivery?
Absolutely. Most of the drinks on Mekong Thai Cuisine’s menu can be ordered to go or with your delivery order. Just check the menu or app for availability.
4. Which drink is best for spicy food?
Coconut Water and Thai Iced Tea are excellent for spicy dishes. They both cool the palate and help balance heat.
5. Do the drinks come with boba or other add-ons?
Some drinks, like Thai Iced Tea or smoothies, may have optional boba or jelly add-ons. Be sure to ask when placing your order if you want a bubble tea-style experience.
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