Snap Thai Fish House

We don’t have exact figures in front of us, but we’d guess that Buckhead has one of the highest rates of Thai restaurants per capita in the South. Even knowing that totally legit stat (that we absolutely didn't just make up), Snap Thai Fish House, one of the city’s best new entries, was plopped right on the corner of Lenox and Piedmont roads. And we’re still thanking them for the decision.

Situated in the Prominence Apartments’ suddenly booming courtyard, Snap Thai’s massive dining room has an understated aesthetic. There’s a fish art installation dangling above the reception stand, but the nautical theme isn’t heavy-handed. If you're on an awkward first date, you can stare endlessly at the knotted ropes falling from the ceiling and if you're here under less stressful conditions, you'll appreciate the space’s soft tans, polished golds, and tons of natural light.

photo credit: Amy Sinclair

And then there's the food. Unlike many of its competitors in the area, Snap Thai offers a concise collection of exceptional appetizers, seafood, and sushi that’ll have you redeeming miles for a trip to Phuket. Here, a hint of lemongrass and lime turns lobster bisque into a showstopper. And if you’re a part of a big, giggly group and the weather's cooperating, you can take things to the spacious outdoor patio or to the side of the bar with the overhead garage door openings and spy on the people talking or playing cornhole in the courtyard.

Call it toned-down Thai. Call it something different from other restaurants in the direct vicinity. Call it whatever you want. Just make sure to call us to join you the next time you’re heading that way.

Food Rundown

Som Tum Pu

With pieces of crab meat sitting atop colorful slithers of papaya and carrots in a white bowl shaped like a hollowed-out boiled egg, you aren’t quite sure if you should grab your fork or your smartphone first. While you decide, we’ll be digging into the comically fresh salad.

photo credit: Amy Sinclair

Crispy Shrimp Tempura

This classic appetizer won’t wow with any artistic flair, yet it does exactly what you want a shrimp tempura to do —have an airy batter, a salty crunch, and a ponzu dipping sauce with some pop— before the flashier mains arrive.

photo credit: Amy Sinclair

Shrimp and Scallops

Having plump, sauteed shrimp and scallops resting on a bed of perfectly cooked fettuccine is one thing, but having all that soak in a phenomenal green curry filled with brussels sprouts and sliced peppers propels this to “One of our favorite dishes in the city” heights.

Chilean Sea Bass

Though lots on this restaurant’s market-fresh roster tries to reel you in, we’ll save you the stress of picking by pointing you towards the sea bass. Our only dilemma is deciding if the thick, succulent cut of fish tastes better dipped in pepper-filled Massaman curry or ginger soy mushroom.

Lobster Fried Rice

Like everything else here, Snap Thai Fish House can take something as familiar as fried rice and turn it into a tour de force of flavor. The chunky, semi-sweet lobster meat over onion- and carrot-packed rice is a must-try by your second visit.