Ukulele Bar & Thai Restaurant

In the heart of the Grund district, a stone’s throw from Luxembourg’s famous and lively Clausen area, the Ukulele Bar & Thai Restaurant has established itself over the years as a true institution for lovers of authentic Thai cuisine. Nestled in a building that was once a British pub, this small, charming restaurant maintains a warm and intimate atmosphere, enhanced by colorful décor reminiscent of Southeast Asia. Its location at 57 Rue de la Tour Jacob, a short distance from the Alzette River, makes it a popular spot for both regulars and visitors seeking a delicious escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

One of the first things that strikes you upon entering this establishment is its small size. The narrow, compact dining room can only accommodate a limited number of guests, which is why it’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially for dinner. This limited space might bother some customers, but it also contributes to the place’s friendly charm. Many regulars point out that despite (or perhaps because of) its small size, the atmosphere remains warm and relaxed, with well-chosen music that pleasantly complements the meals. In the summer, a small outdoor terrace allows you to enjoy the sunny days by the river.

When it comes to restaurants and cuisine, Ukulele prioritizes authenticity. The menu offers a wide range of traditional Thai dishes, from classic pad thai and curries to rarer specialties like khao soi and massaman curry. Shrimp pad thai, spicy pad kee mao, red duck curry, cashew chicken, and beef in oyster sauce are frequent favorites in customer reviews. Those seeking a more intense experience can request the “Thai spicy” option for a more pronounced heat. Mango sticky rice is a signature dessert that makes a perfect ending to a meal. The restaurant also offers a good selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with a dedicated section on the menu, which is sure to please those following these diets. Rice noodles with a secret sauce, curried tofu, and vegetarian wonton soups are particularly popular.

Cafeterias and takeaways also play a significant role in Ukulele’s business. The takeaway service allows customers to enjoy the same dishes at home, and many regulars order takeaway for lunch or dinner. Home delivery is also offered through various platforms. However, it should be noted that some people have reported issues with external delivery services, such as leaks in the bags, which are not directly attributable to the restaurant itself. Management is responsive and offers refunds or replacements in case of problems, provided they are contacted directly by email.

From a drinks perspective, the establishment distinguishes itself with its house cocktails, some of which are custom-made to suit customer preferences, as well as its homemade iced tea, highly recommended for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. The wine list is limited but of high quality, and a few local craft beers are also available. Prices, while considered a bit high by some customers given the portion sizes, remain in line with the Luxembourg market average, especially for a restaurant of this caliber. A main course typically costs between €18 and €23, and the average bill for a full meal with drinks is around €23 to €30 per person.

However, like any restaurant that enjoys such success, Ukulele is not without its critics. The most frequent complaint concerns the wait time, which can be considerable during peak hours, with some customers reporting delays of 40 minutes to an hour for their food, especially when the restaurant is full. Others complain about portion sizes being a bit small for the price, particularly for some appetizers or rice. A few isolated service-related incidents have also been reported: order errors, long waits to get the server’s attention, and billing issues. Management acknowledges these shortcomings and is working to address them, notably by providing better staff training and remaining accessible by email to resolve disputes.

Accessibility is another point to consider. Unfortunately, the restaurant entrance is not suitable for people with reduced mobility due to the building’s old architecture and the staircase. Parents with young children will also note the lack of a high chair and changing table, making the establishment unsuitable for toddlers. As for the menu, it is only available in printed form or via a QR code, the website for which can experience occasional technical glitches, which frustrated some customers in a hurry to make their selections.

Regarding opening hours, Ukulele operates on a specific schedule, with two seatings at lunchtime and in the evening from Tuesday to Sunday, with Monday being the weekly closing day. The cafeteria and takeaway service follow the same schedule, and it’s important to note that the restaurant offers two evening seatings: the first around 6:30-7:00 PM and a second later. Customers arriving early may sometimes need to vacate their table before a certain time to allow the next seating to be accommodated—something to be aware of before making a reservation.

Ultimately, the Ukulele Thai Bar & Restaurant remains a reliable choice in Luxembourg’s culinary scene for those seeking delicious Thai cuisine in an authentic and welcoming setting. The quality of the dishes, the staff’s usual friendliness, the warm atmosphere, and the diverse vegetarian options more than compensate for the few minor imperfections noted here and there. To fully enjoy the experience, it’s best to make a reservation, arrive on time, and take the recommendations of the staff, who are very knowledgeable about the menu. Whether for a romantic dinner, a meal with friends, or a takeaway order, the Ukulele continues to attract a loyal and diverse clientele, charmed by this little corner of Thailand on the banks of the Alzette River.