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Hours
Sun
12:00 pm - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Tue
12:00 pm - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Wed
12:00 pm - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Thu
12:00 pm - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Fri
12:00 pm - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Sat
12:00 pm - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.5
Travellers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
Learn More
PRICE RANGE
$15.00 – $32.00
CUISINES
Asian, Thai
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
meals, features
Is this an Asian restaurant?
Details
About
Welcome to Chim Thai! "Chim" in Thai means to taste. We take pride in our cuisine and its presentation.We believe in serving food that is good quality and made of the freshest ingredients. We are an authentic Thai restaurant located in Rototuna, Hamilton. Tease your taste buds with hot, sour, sweet and salty Thai cuisine with aromatic herbs and spices.
PRICE RANGE
$15.00 – $32.00
CUISINES
Asian, Thai
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
FEATURES
Delivery, Takeout, Reservations, Seating, Street Parking, Free off-street parking, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Free Wifi, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service
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4.5
233 reviews
Excellent
187
Very good
28
Average
7
Poor
5
Terrible
6
Gordon D
Edinburgh209 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
Whilst visiting New Zealand we visited this local Thai restaurant with my brother and his wife who live in Hamilton. They have never been here before but at the end of the evening they said they would definitely be returning. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the young service staff very friendly and she quickly took our drinks order before returning to take our food selections. The selection is quite large with varied choices, two of us chose fish dishes and the other meat dishes.
Presentation was lovely, good size dishes and most importantly very tasty. The cost for wine and food was reasonable and overall we all thoroughly enjoyed our evening.
Written 24 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Great news to read that you enjoyed your meal and thank you for sharing
Written 30 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Vinoth777
Auckland Central1 contribution
Feb 2020 • friends
Staff was friendly and very accommodating. I had asked for a recommendation, and even though with a group of 9 and a fully booked place, the waitress took her time to suggest and go over some dishes I might enjoy.
I had asked for my meal to be super'Thai Hot'(and I really emphasized on HOT).I was not expecting much as most places lay claim on spiciness but do not deliver. By the life of me I was not expecting the meal to be both delicious and also burn as hot as a thousand suns. I was impressed.
Only downside is that I wish I had ordered dessert, as that would have been a great compliment to the meal I had.
Overall great place, would go again.
Written 21 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thanks for the great review, really happy to read that your request for super thai hot was me.
Written 22 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Montelle M
Hamilton4 contributions
Feb 2020 • couples
My partner and I have eaten at many different Thai restaurants, and Chim Thai is by far the best! I highly recommend trying the pad thai, which is served in a crispy rice paper basket. (image below)
We now eat here every week. The service is great, food is delicious, and we’ve never had to wait for more than 15 minutes for our meals.
Also recommend the Crispy pork belly (image below), Duck spring rolls, Tom yum soup, Green curry & Crispy duck.
Written 19 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you so much for the great compliment, it is very much appreciated and we love having you as regular customers
Written 21 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
John
2 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
Food was once again delicious. We’re in a much bigger group of diners this time and found the service OK but not great. Food came out at irregular intervals. Some of us eating, others still waiting . The same for entree and mains. Waiting staff had no idea who had ordered what. Unopened bottles of wine just plonked on the table with glasses. Expected a bit more given the price.
This won’t stop us going back as the food makes up for everything.
Written 10 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you for the compliment upon our food. We are sorry about the service issues, we were much more busy than expected when we reopened after the break. This has been raised with the staff concerned.
Written 24 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
frank_1100
Hamilton95 contributions
Jun 2020 • couples
Came here based on great reviews and word of mouth. I was left pretty dissapointed. Ordered fresh Springrolls (w/ duck) which weren't great at all no fresh herbs and didnt taste like thai food at all. Whole snapper fried with sweet n sour, at $43 this was terrible, tasted like it had freezer burn and way over cooked at this price point you'd expect better or at least fresh fish. We also ordered off the Wok menu too which was ok, but served with mesculin side salad and mayo again, is that thai?
If you want authentic thai... look elsewhere.
Written 17 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
We are disappointed that you did not enjoy your meal, fortunately for us, your experience appears to be an exception. We are trying to present a modern version of Thai cuisine which involves some western style garnish. If you are looking for a traditional Thai Restaurant, there are many great options available.
Written 18 June 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Chris and Beryl W
15 contributions
Jul 2020 • none
We had 25-30 friends at our house for my husbands 50th birthday party. We have eaten at Chim Thai before and thought their food was amazing. I spoke to Chim Thai asking if they would do food for 25-30 people that I could pick up and take home. This was absolutely no problem for them, the food was exactly on time when I arrived and the quality was incredible. Really outstanding. I cannot recommend them enough for anyone that is having a function at home and wants to take the hassle out of cooking yourself, and been able to serve some beautiful food. Our guests were blown away - am sure there will be quite a few of them visiting Chim Thai now for their dinner! Thank you so much Chim Thai, your food is definitely top notch, and was a lot more affordable then several other places I had contacted.
Written 1 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you very much for the fantastic feedback. We are thrilled everything worked out to your satisfaction. Regards, Chim Thai Team
Written 4 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Chi
3 contributions
Jun 2020 • couples
Came here to celebrate with food and to relax with the atmosphere. The service was tremendous, with the waitresses being prompt with timing of delivering service and food with excellent care for our night.
The food was cooked deliciously and on time. From the freshness and spice of the oysters to the sweetness of the duck, there was not a speck of food which was left untouched.
I highly recommend Chim Thai to others who loves cuisine that is prepared and delivered with excellent care and taste. I will be coming back and recommending the place to everyone who loves food.
Written 28 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you very much for the fantastic review it is really appreciated.
Written 30 June 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JSFrankie
Hamilton1 contribution
Aug 2020 • friends
We were finally able to introduce our non-Rototuna based friends to the Chim Thai experience. Going in a group means you get to try lots of different dishes and they are all super fresh and super tasty. We love that their meat is free range, the service is always excellent and we have never been disappointed. Our friends are now converts too.
Written 19 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you for the great review and thanks for introducing your friends to our restaurant.
We really appreciate your support.
Written 25 September 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Robert Cameron
Hamilton7 contributions
Nov 2020 • solo
Every time I come in for a meal etc at Chin Thai I truly appreciate the meals which are freshly cooked and served. Along with having drinks and or entrees before the main meal. I regard Chim Thai a warmth hospitality restaurant to worthwhile spending time there.
Written 20 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you Robert for your kind review which we really appreciate just as we appreciate your loyal patronage. Look forward to seeing you again soon.
Written 30 November 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Peter M
Cambridge30 contributions
Nov 2020 • none
We decided to have Thai on Saturday night and after looking at reviews, decided to give Chim Thai a try. Was fully booked but they managed to squeeze us in as long as we were out by 6.30pm. Saw about 8 takeaway meals going out in the 50 minutes we were there so figured the reviews were spot on. Had a couple of Tapas dishes and two mains to share between the 3 of us. Each one beautifully presented and full of flavour. The Pad Thai presentation was awesome (I wont give away too many details) and whilst looking small when it first arrived, the basket was bigger than it looked and there was plenty to go round. Next time we'll be trying the Duck dish too as this looked amazing when it came out for others who were dining. Could not fault the service - all staff very friendly and helpful. Everything was clean and tidy and the food was first rate.
Written 23 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you very much for your awesome review about our food, service and presentation and thank you for taking the time to give such great feed back. It is very humbling to read a review such as yours.
Written 30 November 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amy H
Denver15 contributions
Feb 2021 • family
We were excited to try a different Thai place than our usual as we love Thai food. It was very disappointing. The dishes were swimming in sauce that made it difficult to taste the fresh ingredients. As vegetarians, We would not recommend any of the dishes we had. The cooked vegetables were overdone but the biggest complaint was the heavy handed application of sauce. The salad was literally swimming in dressing and the Pad Thai noodles were limp. Service was friendly and helpful but we won’t be back anytime soon.
Written 26 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Don
We are disappointed that you did not enjoy your meal. It is a pity that you did not raise your concerns with us when you were served and we could have done something about it then.
Written 28 February 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
julie W
Port Douglas35 contributions
Oct 2020 • friends
This food was the worst ever. Thai food is supposed to be flavoursome....this was flavourless! Had the same dish at numerous Thai places so was extremely disappointed that I couldn't even eat half of it. My husband had a different dish and his was bland also. Don't waste your money here, would never go back! Utter rubbish
Written 24 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Hi Julie W.,
We are sorry you did not like your meal and we are sorry that you did not complain to our staff at the time. This seems unusual. You say you were "extremely disappointed" but you said nothing. Instead you have written a hostile and savage review. Chim Thai has garnered many wonderful reviews over time. I see you make no mention of what dishes both you and your husband actually ordered. I have seen some of your other contributions to Trip Advisor. Here are a few of your headlines: "Totally Grim", "Tasteless" (About another Thai Restaurant) "Absolutely Disgusting Place", "Not Great" , "Terrible". You even bagged the Te Awamutu Rose Gardens. It seems Julie W. you are a serial bad reviewer, you have come from Port Douglas, Australia and I am sure the restaurants there were pleased to see the back you. If you find eating out so bad perhaps you should cook at home rather than subjecting restaurants to your abusive reviews!
Written 29 October 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
John M
Sydney4 contributions
Jun 2021 • couples
Went for dinner with high expectations based on other reviews but found staff to be lacking in knowledge of the menu, fish cake entree clearly frozen and rubbery, crispy pork belly main dry.
No indication of BYO on website but apparently they allow. Take advantage of it (just saying).
Written 18 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Don
Hello John M
Sorry you did not enjoy your meal. I understand your waitress inquired on two occasions if everything was alright with your meals and both times you said "Yes". If you are not satisfied with your meal we can try to rectify the issue at the time if you let us know. I understand your reference to staff lacking knowledge was with reference to the pronunciation of the Thai name for a dish, believe me it is not easy. Thai is a tone language and the names we use are a best attempt at the sound of the Thai script name.
Written 21 June 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kamicandre
1 contribution
Feb 2020 • friends
Growing up in Singapore, I've always been looking for spicy food to sate my hot taste buds.
After moving to Hamilton, I haven't found anything that could at least make me sweat.
But at Chim Thai, where they have amazing thai food plus the spice to bring the heat. I just fell in love with the food and the place.
The servers were really nice and patient with all my questions about the menu.
I highly recommend trying the chicken satay, though it wasn't spicy, it definitely was very authentic
Written 21 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you very much for the compliment, We try to meet everyones expectations for spicy which is not always easy. Great that we have hit the mark for you and thanks for letting us know.
Written 22 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Steverowe54
Hamilton15 contributions
Nov 2019 • none
Chim Thai is hidden away in Rototuna, Hamilton but its well worth finding it. Four of celebrated a birthday with some superb dining. You have trouble selecting as there are many wonderful dishes but i had the sizzling seafood selection(mild not hot) and it was outstanding. Really great service and friendly staff and you have to book to ensure getting in as the reputation of this place is growing.
My first choice in Hamilton for Thai food.
Written 8 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
don45south
Thank you for the great review Steve, glad you are not keeping us a secret. All the best for 2020.
Written 13 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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