Thai Celadon

Celadon Thai is a must-visit for Thai food lovers, whether they live in Luxembourg City or are just passing through. Located at 1 Rue du Nord in the historic Upper Town district, this establishment has attracted a loyal clientele for many years, drawn by the promise of a gastronomic experience straight from the Kingdom of Siam. When choosing from the many restaurants in the city center, it’s worth weighing the strengths and weaknesses of this particular restaurant to determine if it truly meets your expectations.

The Celadon Thai restaurant enjoys a prime location in the heart of Luxembourg’s old town, just steps from the main pedestrian and tourist areas. This central location makes it a convenient choice for a business lunch, a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends, especially since several public parking lots, including the Parking Théâtre, are located nearby. However, the lack of an elevator is worth noting: those with reduced mobility or families with strollers should be aware of the stairs to access the tables on the upper floor. Also note that there is no outdoor seating and pets are not allowed in the dining room.

On the culinary front, the restaurant boasts a team of chefs hailing from various regions of Thailand, allowing it to offer a rich and diverse menu, ranging from beloved classics to more original creations. Among the takeaway options and signature dishes served on-site, regulars particularly recommend the Tom Yam Kung, a spicy lemongrass shrimp soup, as well as the Green Curry Chicken, Beef Celadon, Peking Duck, and Pad Thai, often cited as one of the best in the city. Seafood lovers will gravitate towards the Emerald Shrimp or the Fisherman’s Favourite, while vegetarians will find a pleasing selection with the green vegetable curry, fried wontons, or imperial tofu. For dessert, the “North Pole Surprise” made with coconut milk or the caramelized bananas with vanilla ice cream provide a sweet ending to the meal. The chili level can be adjusted on demand, allowing both experienced palates and beginners to fully enjoy the flavors.

The dining room at Thai Celadon aims for an intimate and cozy atmosphere, with understated yet refined décor that prioritizes elegance over over-the-top exoticism. Diners generally praise the presentation of the dishes and the attention to detail, such as preheating the food. The carefully curated wine list complements both spicy and milder dishes, and an attentive server is always happy to guide undecided customers. The staff, often described as warm, professional, and smiling, contributes significantly to the restaurant’s reputation for hospitality. That said, a few customers have reported order errors, oversights in the kitchen, or long wait times during peak hours, particularly when takeout orders are pouring in alongside dine-in service.

In terms of value for money, the restaurant is clearly positioned in the high-end segment, with prices ranging from average to high for Luxembourg City. According to management, this pricing is justified by the premium quality of the ingredients, the mastery of authentic recipes, and a culinary experience recognized by the Michelin Guide (a Michelin Plate has been awarded several times). However, it’s worth noting that some customers consider the portions small, particularly for main courses and extras like rice, which are charged separately. Those on a tight budget might prefer other restaurants or cafes in the city that offer more generous portions, while those seeking refined cuisine and sophisticated flavors will find a good compromise here.

From a practical standpoint, Celadon Thai welcomes guests Monday through Friday, with two seatings: lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM. On Saturdays, only dinner service is available (7:00 PM to 10:30 PM), while Sunday is reserved for weekly rest. As the restaurant is small and very popular, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners. Dine-in service is offered, but the establishment also provides takeout, a popular option for enjoying Thai cuisine at home. Please note that credit card tips are not accepted, so it is advisable to have some cash on hand if you wish to tip the staff. Finally, high chairs are not available, which is something to consider for families.

Ultimately, Celadon Thai caters to a clientele seeking authenticity and refinement rather than those prioritizing quantity or tight budgets. The quality of the cuisine, the consistent service, and the elegant setting make it a reliable choice among Asian restaurants in Luxembourg City, provided you’re willing to pay the price and book in advance. For a quick or budget-friendly meal, you’re better off looking at other cafes or takeaway options in the capital. For a special occasion, however, this restaurant remains a must-try, worth discovering or rediscovering without hesitation.