After a few days on the road in BC, a very specific craving starts to creep in. It’s not the “we need coffee” craving (that one is permanent). It’s the “we’ve eaten burgers, pizza, and pub food for three days straight and our souls would like a noodle reset” craving.
Don’t get us wrong — we love burgers, pizza, and beer. We will happily defend them at all costs. But Audrey and I spent years living and traveling across Asia. We taught English in South Korea, and then we did that slippery-slope thing where “a short trip to Southeast Asia” turns into years of wandering around the region. Thailand became our comfort zone, and Chiang Mai was our home base for a long stretch — which means we’ve got a deep relationship with pad thai, rich curry paste and sticky rice.
So when we landed in Cranbrook and realized we were overdue for something that wasn’t wrapped in a bun, Family Thai Restaurant instantly moved to the top of the list. And honestly? It delivered in the exact way we were hoping: authentic, comforting, flavour-packed, and the kind of meal that makes you sit back afterwards and think, “Okay…that scratched the itch.”
This is our full, honest review: what we ordered, how it tasted, what we’d order again, and a bunch of practical details so you can plan your own Thai comfort-food mission in Cranbrook.
The quick snapshot
| What you need to know | The details |
|---|---|
| Where | Family Thai Restaurant, 414 Cranbrook St N, Cranbrook, BC |
| Style | Family-run Thai spot with classic noodles, curries, stir-fries, and a few chef-recommended dishes |
| Dine-in / takeout | Both (dine-in and takeout available) |
| Hours (always double-check before you go) | Tue–Fri 11:30am–7:30pm, Sat 4:00pm–7:30pm, Sun–Mon & holidays closed |
| Spice scale | 1–5 (and yes, they mean it) |
| Dietary notes | Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options listed as possible on selected menu items; allergy note re: fish sauce/nuts |
| Our headline order | Pad Thai + Green Coconut Curry (spice level 3/5) + mango sticky rice + deep-fried banana |
(Details like address, posted business hours, dine-in/takeout, and the restaurant’s spice/dietary notes are from the restaurant’s official site.)
If you’re the kind of traveller who likes to decide fast, here’s the cheat code: order Pad Thai if you want a safe, comforting win; order green curry if you want warmth + coconut comfort + potential spice bravery; and if you see mango sticky rice, you don’t ask questions—you just say “yes”.
Why we ended up at Family Thai Restaurant on night one
We’d just rolled into Cranbrook on our family road trip and were in that special travel state where your brain is 40% logistics, 40% hunger, and 20% “Do we have the baby’s hat? Why do babies require so many hats?”
After a day of exploring—wetlands, wildlife, “we’re sharing it with the ducks” energy—our priorities were simple:
- Eat something comforting (travel days are not the moment for experimental, mystery meals).
- Eat somewhere friendly (because we had a baby, and babies arrive with their own soundtrack).
- Eat somewhere that tastes like a reward for being a functioning adult in public.
We spotted Family Thai Restaurant early in the trip planning, and the fact that it’s family-run instantly bumped it up our list. A lot of our favourite meals in Thailand weren’t “fancy”—they were made by people who cared, cooked with intention, and had that calm confidence that says, “We’ve been doing this a while.”
The restaurant itself keeps things straightforward: you come hungry, you pick your spice level, and you leave with the happy-dazed look of someone who just had their soul refilled with noodles.
What we ordered (and the exact moment we realized we’d made the right choice)
We went classic. No trend-chasing. No “we’re going to do something wild.” This was a comfort-food mission.
1) Pad Thai (our go-to road-trip noodle order)
Pad Thai is the universal Thai-food handshake. It’s the dish you order when you want delicious certainty: rice noodles, egg, tofu, a tangy-sweet sauce, crunch from peanuts, and that little pop of green onion and bean sprouts that makes you feel like you’ve made a delicious yet healthy decision.
Family Thai’s menu lists Pad Thai with either tomato-based sauce or tamarind sauce (a fun detail if you’re into nerdy menu reading). Tamarind is the more classic tangy direction; tomato-based can be slightly sweeter and softer. If you’re used to the Pad Thai you ate in Thailand, tamarind is the way to go (and what we ended up doing).
Here’s what mattered most in the moment: the dish landed as proper comfort food. Not messy. Not overloaded. Just a satisfying plate that doesn’t need a speech.
2) Green Coconut Curry (level 3/5… and a life lesson)
Audrey went for the green coconut curry and chose spice level 3 out of 5.
Now. Let’s talk about spice levels the way a family travel blog should:
A “3” is often marketed as “medium.” Sometimes it’s a polite medium. Sometimes it’s “medium” like a campfire is medium. This was the second type.
Audrey was nearly crying (the honest kind), and her sinuses certainly cleared up.
And that was awesome! Green curry is one of those dishes where the coconut milk gives you a soft landing, but the green curry paste shows up with a megaphone. When it’s done well, it’s aromatic, slightly sweet, herbal, and deeply comforting. When it’s done well at a 3/5, it’s also… on point.
So, if you’re spice-shy, consider a 1 or 2. If you’re spice-curious, a 3 is exciting. If you’re spice-legendary, go 4 or 5—and please report back, because we want to know how you made out.
3) Dessert: mango sticky rice + deep-fried banana (because we have self-control issues)
We were so happy with the mains we ordered dessert.
- Mango sticky rice is the Thai dessert that feels like a hug. Sweet mango, sticky rice, coconut flavour, and that gentle “why don’t we eat like this more often?” realization.
- Deep-fried banana is exactly what it sounds like—warm, sweet, and extremely dangerous because it disappears faster than you can say “We should share.”
This is the part where we confess that the restaurant was so good we wanted to film speaking clips… but the baby was screaming like crazy (practicing her singing…we call her the Opera singer), so we chose to simply focus on eating.
The spice-level survival guide (read this before you choose your number)
Family Thai Restaurant uses a 1–5 spice guide, and they’re pretty explicit about what it means—including that “5 is for Thai nationals.” That’s the kind of warning label we respect.
Here’s our real-world interpretation:
| Spice level | Who it’s for | What it feels like | Our recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cautious eaters, kids, first-timers | Warmth, not heat | Perfect if you want flavour without risk |
| 2 | Most people | Noticeable kick, still comfy | The smart choice if you’re unsure |
| 3 | Spice-curious travellers | Tingling lips, “okay wow” moments | Fun… if you like living slightly on the edge |
| 4 | Chili enthusiasts | The fire arrives and brings friends | Commit fully and order a drink |
| 5 | Legends, daredevils, Thai nationals (per their scale) | “I have transcended” | Do it for science (and hydration) |
If you take nothing else from this article: the number matters. The number is not decorative. The number is not a vibe. The number is essentially a contract.
What we’d order again (and what we’d try next time)
We’re not subtle about this: we’d happily go back and get the exact same thing. But we’ll share some other options to branch out.
Our “order again” hall of fame
- Pad Thai (especially if you’re bringing someone who wants a sure thing)
- Green coconut curry (with a spice level you choose with full awareness of consequences)
- Mango sticky rice
- Deep-fried banana
The decision matrix: pick your order based on your mood
| Your vibe tonight | What to order | Spice suggestion | Why it works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort-first, no surprises | Pad Thai (tamarind-style if you want classic tang) | 1–2 | Balanced, familiar, crowd-pleaser |
| “Warm me up, I’m tired” | Green curry | 2–3 | Coconut comfort + bold flavour |
| You want stir-fry energy | Pad cashew / Pad ginger / Pad garlic | 2–3 | Saucy, aromatic, lots of texture |
| You want something “Thai restaurant classic” | Drunken noodles (Pad Kee Mao) | 2–3 | Big basil-garlic vibes, satisfying noodles |
| You’re ordering for the table | Spring rolls + curry + noodle dish | Mixed | Best variety-to-effort ratio |
| Dessert is non-negotiable | Mango sticky rice + deep-fried banana | N/A | Because life is short |
If you’re travelling as a couple, our suggestion is simple: one noodle dish + one curry dish + dessert. It gives you contrast (tangy noodles vs creamy curry) and prevents the terrible tragedy of “we should have ordered that too.”
A mini menu decoder for first-timers (so you don’t panic-order)
Thai menus can be a little overwhelming if you don’t already know your “usual.” Family Thai’s menu is actually pretty clear, but here are a few easy guides that help you order with confidence.
Pad Thai: tomato sauce vs tamarind sauce
This is a surprisingly useful menu detail, because it explains why Pad Thai tastes different from restaurant to restaurant.
| If you like… | Pick this | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Tangy, classic Pad Thai flavour | Tamarind sauce | Sweet-sour balance, more traditional |
| Softer sweetness, gentler tang | Tomato sauce | Rounder, slightly sweeter profile |
If you have no strong opinion, start with tamarind. If you grew up on the more North American “sweet Pad Thai” style, tomato sauce might feel familiar.
Curries: what green curry usually signals
Green curry tends to be:
- herbal and aromatic
- coconut-forward
- often spicier than you expect (hello, our faces)
- comforting in a “this is delicious, but also I may be sweating” way
If you want curry flavour with less heat, you can also look for options like red curry or massaman-style curry on many Thai menus. (And if you’re unsure, ask)
“Is it authentic?” Our honest take (from Chiang Mai to Cranbrook)
Authenticity is a loaded word in food writing. Thailand itself is wildly diverse: dishes change by region, by family, by what’s in season, by what locals insist is the “real” way. So we don’t roll in with a clipboard.
But we can say this: we lived in Chiang Mai, we’ve eaten Thai food in Thailand, and we know the difference between “Thai-inspired” and “this actually tastes like Thai food.”
Family Thai Restaurant hit the comfort-food sweet spot for us. The flavours felt familiar, the curry delivered in a very real way, and the whole experience had that grounded, family-run energy that reminds us of meals we’ve had across Southeast Asia.
Also—and this matters—good Thai food doesn’t just taste like “spicy.” It tastes like balance: salty, sweet, sour, heat, aromatics. Even when you’re practically crying, you should still want another bite. We did.
Family-friendly reality check (aka: we survived dinner with a baby)
Let’s not pretend: dining out with a baby is not always a serene culinary journey. Sometimes it’s a chaotic live show where the star performer is tiny.
Our night at Family Thai was a real-world test:
- Baby was screaming/singing.
- We couldn’t film talking clips.
- We still had a great meal.
- The people were friendly, and the vibe felt welcoming.
- We ate early before the “normal dinner crowd” rolls in
If you’re travelling as a family, here are a few practical notes
- It’s listed as family style and highchairs are available.
- It’s listed as wheelchair accessible.
- Takeout is an option (handy for “we love restaurants but also bedtime exists” situations).
- Reservations are listed as available (useful for busy nights).
In other words: you’re not the first family to walk in with a stroller and optimism. You’ll fit right in.
Dine-in vs takeout: which one makes sense for your trip?
We’re big fans of eating in when we can—Thai food is at its best when it hits the table hot and fragrant. But takeout is also one of life’s finest inventions, especially on a road trip.
| Situation | Dine-in | Takeout |
|---|---|---|
| You want the full experience | Best choice | Still tasty, just less “fresh-from-wok” magic |
| You’ve got a baby who may implode | Possible (and highchairs exist) | Often easier and calmer |
| You want leftovers for tomorrow | Sometimes | Great for this—order extra rice and call it meal prep |
| You’re short on time | Depends on how busy it is | Efficient if you plan ahead |
| You’re sensitive to spice | Easy to adjust + ask questions | Still adjustable, but double-check your spice number |
If you’re visiting Cranbrook for a short stay, our default recommendation is dine-in at least once, then do takeout later if you’re in full “we’re too tired to be perceived” mode.
How to build the perfect order (for different travellers)
If you’re reading this while hungry, I apologize in advance. Let’s build your order like a strategy game.
If you’re visiting Cranbrook as a couple
- 1 noodle dish (Pad Thai or drunken noodles)
- 1 curry (green curry if you like heat; otherwise ask for a gentler option)
- 1 dessert (mango sticky rice is the obvious winner)
If you’re travelling with kids
- Start at spice level 1–2
- Noodles are usually the safest bet
- Add one stir-fry dish to share
- Dessert as a peace treaty
If you’re a spice chaser
- Choose 3–4 (and understand 4 is not a joke)
- Curry is your playground
- Consider adding a stir-fry dish with basil/garlic energy
- Order a drink, because hydration is not optional
If you have dietary restrictions
The restaurant notes that they can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free preferences on selected items, and they flag that some dishes may contain fish sauce or nuts—so it’s worth mentioning allergies up front and asking what’s easiest to modify.
The “what we’d tell a friend” verdict
If a friend messaged us, “We’re in Cranbrook tonight—where should we eat?” Family Thai would be on our short list immediately.
Not because it’s trying to be flashy. Not because it’s a trendy “concept.” But because it does the thing that matters most on a trip: it gives you a satisfying meal that feels like comfort and a little bit of adventure at the same time.
We came in hungry and travel-tired. We left happy, full, and slightly humbled by spice level 3. That’s a successful dinner.
Planning notes: hours, location, and a couple of smart tips
Family Thai Restaurant is at 414 Cranbrook St N and is listed as a family-owned restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine (operating since 2017). They list dine-in and takeout, with business hours posted on their site.
A couple of practical tips:
- Check hours before you go, especially around holidays (they note holidays are closed).
- If you’re spice-uncertain, start with a 2. You can always go hotter next time.
- If you’re eating with kids, asking for mild is never embarrassing—it’s efficient parenting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eating at Family Thai Restaurant in Cranbrook (Real Traveler Questions, Real Answers)
Is Family Thai Restaurant in Cranbrook good for families with kids?
Yes. It’s listed as family style and travellers note features like highchairs. In our experience, the staff felt friendly and welcoming—even with a baby having a loud moment.
Do they do takeout?
Yes. Takeout is listed as an option, and it’s a great move if you’re on a road trip schedule or dealing with early bedtime.
What’s the best thing to order if it’s your first time?
Pad Thai is the safest “first visit” pick. If you like curry, green curry is excellent—just choose your spice level carefully.
How spicy is the green curry?
Our level 3/5 was genuinely spicy—tears and clear sinuses spicy. If you’re unsure, try a 2 first.
What spice level should I choose if I don’t like spicy food?
Pick a 1 or 2. Level 1 is the cautious option; level 2 gives you a little kick without turning dinner into a personal challenge.
Do they have vegetarian or vegan options?
They note that vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free preferences can be accommodated on selected menu items. The easiest approach is to mention your needs when ordering.
Is it gluten-free friendly?
They note gluten-free options may be possible on selected items. Ask when you order, especially if you’re highly sensitive.
Do they use MSG?
They state that they do not use MSG.
Can you make reservations?
Reservations are listed as a feature on traveller listings. If you’re going at peak dinner time or with a group, it’s worth calling ahead.
Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible?
It’s listed as wheelchair accessible on traveller listings.
Are there desserts worth ordering?
Yes. Mango sticky rice is a classic for a reason, and deep-fried banana is the kind of dessert that disappears suspiciously fast.
What’s the best “we want to share everything” order for two people?
One noodle dish + one curry + one dessert. It’s the best balance of flavours and prevents order regret.
Is it open on weekends?
It’s open Saturday evenings, and their own site lists Sunday and Monday as closed (and holidays closed), so double-check timing before you plan your meal.
How expensive is it?
Menu prices vary by dish, but it generally sits in the “mid-range dinner” category for a sit-down meal. If you’re price-sensitive, lunch specials can be a smart value play.
Further Reading, Sources & Resources
For current hours, menu updates, and dietary notes, always verify directly with the restaurant.
- Family Thai Restaurant (official site: hours, address, contact, dine-in/takeout, “since 2017” note).
https://www.familythairestaurantcranbrook.com/home.html - Family Thai Restaurant (official site: spice scale, no-MSG statement, vegan/gluten-free notes, allergy note).
https://www.familythairestaurantcranbrook.com/ - Family Thai Restaurant menu (official site: menu items, lunch menu, Pad Thai sauce options, curry listings).
https://www.familythairestaurantcranbrook.com/menu.html - Cranbrook Tourism listing (address/phone/official website link).
https://cranbrooktourism.com/dining/restaurants/family-thai-restaurant - Tripadvisor listing (rating/review count, features like highchairs/takeout/wheelchair accessible, and general traveller feedback).
https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g181788-d13223769-Reviews-Family_Thai_Restaurant-Cranbrook_Kootenay_Rockies_British_Columbia.html
Notes on accuracy
Restaurant hours, menus, and policies can change seasonally, around holidays, or without much notice. The most reliable source for “right now” details is the restaurant’s own site or a quick phone call.
