Welcome to Zaap Lai Thai and Lao Cuisine
Zaap Lai Thai and Lao Cuisine, located in Johnson City, TN, is a culinary gem that captures the essence of authentic Thai and Lao flavors. Specializing in delicious offerings like deep-fried dumplings, crab rangoon, and savory pho, the restaurant delights patrons with its diverse menu and exceptional spice customization. Diners rave about the freshness and generous portions of dishes, along with the attentive and friendly service. Customer favorites consistently showcase the robust flavors and quality at Zaap Lai, making it a must-visit for both locals and travelers seeking memorable culinary experiences. Discover a place where every bite is a celebration of Thai and Lao cuisine!
- 2244 N Roan St #102, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States2244 N Roan St #102, Johnson City, TN 37601, United States Hotline: +1 423-833-0035
If you're searching for an authentic taste of Southeast Asia right in Johnson City, look no further than Zaap Lai Thai and Lao Cuisine. Nestled at 2244 N Roan St #102, this culinary gem combines the vibrant flavors of Thai and Lao dishes, creating a feast that delights the senses. Known for its eclectic menu, Zaap Lai offers everything from rich Thai curries like Red, Massamun, and Green Curry, to tantalizing appetizers such as Fried Shrimp Rolls and Deep Fried Dumplings.
One standout feature of Zaap Lai is the ability to customize spice levels, allowing diners to choose their heat from a scale of one to five. As customer Kourtney B noted, the food is not just satisfying but "seriously good," with generous portions and attention to detail in every dish. The fried egg rolls paired with a selection of sauces highlight the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor.
Feedback from regulars like Bailey Kirkpatrick reinforces that Zaap Lai is a must-visit. The restaurant is celebrated for its authentic pho, a dish that has patrons traveling from afar just to indulge in their perfectly seasoned creations. It’s not just about the food; it’s about creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers returning. The staff is known for their friendless and familiarity, recalling regular orders with precision, making each dining experience personalized.
Those who venture into the world of Thai cuisine for the first time, like Amanda Baker, find Zaap Lai refreshing, discovering dishes that excel beyond expectations. With each plate served hot and bursting with flavor, it’s no wonder that Zaap Lai is quickly earning a loyal following. From the creamy Coconut Shrimp to the refreshing Papaya Salad, every dish reflects years of culinary expertise.
The consistent quality of meals extends to both dine-in and takeout experiences, as Wes Ripley shares about the incredible consistency across the menu. It’s rare to find a place where every dish resonates with authenticity and flavor, making the experience worthwhile, regardless of how far you have to travel to enjoy it.
In conclusion, Zaap Lai Thai and Lao Cuisine delivers not just meals, but a culinary story that intertwines tradition with local flair. With every visit, the inviting ambiance, friendly service, and importantly, delicious dishes await to be explored. So, whether you’re in the mood for curry, pho, or a new appetizer, add Zaap Lai to your must-try list!

Got the crab fried rice with seafood and the fried egg rolls... they gave a sampling of their sauce rack with multiple sauces and peppers. It was seriously good. 30 tab but in my opinion it was worth it cause the seafood was perfectly cooked and not small pieces at all. It was a huge portion. Take my money any time! I was just visiting town but I hope I can make it back sooner or later. Oh also you can choose your spice level 1-5. I did 3 and it was perfect for me. But did have the nose running a little bit but it was so worth it.

Absolutely incredible! The BEST spot for pho. We drive an hour just to eat at this place. It is LEGIT and AUTHENTIC. Some of the best chicken pho I’ve ever had in my life. Staff is friendly and remembers my fiance’s order because he goes so often. We love supporting this place because they do such a great job and the chefs really know what they are doing. If you are thinking of going here- just go!

We have tried other Thai places in Johnson City and were not impressed, having had amazing Thai food all around the country. I was just about ready to write off Thai food here altogether until my husband suggested we try this place. I am so glad he did! We ordered the crab Rangoon for an appetizer and he had chicken pad Thai and I had Beef with glass noodles (can’t remember the name of the dish) they even have a spice rack! The food came out hot and delicious and I am really happy to find this gem! Spending a lot of time in Johnson City, I’m happy we found this great Thai Place

I haven't had a single thing here that has not been incredible! The Thai curries, Lao dishes, the fried rice, the spring rolls, its all good and the servers and front of house folks are always so kind and professional! Quality is consistent across eating in and grabbing take out. A 6/5 spot!

Fabulous food and service on our trip to NY, that we returned on the way back. Jessica is one of the most amazing servers I've ever come across. She handles the entire room of about 15 tables with ease and made great recommendations to us. My wife loved her chicken fried rice and talked about how great the depth of flavor was given that her dish was GF. I had Pho the first time and then tried a beef with eggplant dish the second visit. Both were amazing. I wish we had a place like this in the town we live in now, but unfortunately, we have to travel to get good Thai/Vietnamese. Can't wait to visit again!

The best Pho I’ve had in Tennessee! The dining room was fully packed, and the young lady server was phenomenal! Never used a note pad and didn’t mess up any orders! AMAZING!!!! Food was very fresh, cooked to perfection! My wife had chicken pad Thai and I had steak and meatball pho and let me tell you something!!! Taste was great! I’ve had this dish from Florida to Boston, and this one will be tough to beat! You will not be disappointed!

I have visited twice over the past few weeks. First I got the Pad Thai. Enjoyable, nice flavors. More portion that I could eat in one sitting. The second time I got the Massaman Curry. And it was excellent! Great flavor, tons of peanuts. If I was local I'd show up here a lot more often.

Best crab rangoon I've ever had! My husband and I both enjoyed our noodle dishes. We had plenty to take home as well! Very generous portion sizes. It's a small place with a great atmosphere. Very clean and bathrooms are also clean! Great service!