A visitor looking for reliable, flavorful Thai food in Bellingham will find On Rice a strong bet. Tucked on Harris Ave in Fairhaven, it delivers exactly what most diners want: consistent dishes, quick and courteous service, and sauces that make you keep eating past “I’m full.” Portions are generous, prices feel fair for the quality, and both brown and white rice are offered—useful for diners who are mindful about choices. The vibe is cozy rather than flashy, and the dining room makes it easy to relax into conversation. Takeout is efficient, and staff are organized even during the early-evening rush. If you’re deciding where to eat tonight, and “Thai near me” is on your mind, this spot routinely earns repeat visits.
Services
- Dine-in for lunch and dinner with friendly, efficient table service
- Takeout with well-labeled orders and steady ticket times
- Customizable spice levels (mild to hot) on classics and curries
- Protein choices: chicken, tofu, beef, prawns (and more when available)
- Rice options: white or brown; gluten-conscious selections on many dishes
- Family-friendly environment with shareable plates and consistent portions
Menu
Curries
- Green Curry: fragrant coconut base with basil and bell pepper; great with chicken or tofu.
- Panang: rich, slightly sweet, with that signature nutty depth.
- Yellow Curry: mellow spice and potato comfort; easy win for mild-heat lovers.
Noodles & Stir-Fry
- Pad See Ew: wide rice noodles, wok-kissed and savory; standout with tofu or chicken.
- Pad Thai: bright tamarind, crunchy peanuts, fresh lime—balanced and crowd-pleasing.
- Drunken Noodles: bolder heat, basil aroma, satisfying chew.
House Favorites
- Cashew Chicken: crisp veggies, roasted cashews, glossy sauce.
- Sweet & Sour: classic tang with pineapple; add prawns for a premium feel.
- Peanut Sauce Salad: the sleeper hit—crisp greens, addicting peanut dressing.
Sides & Add-Ons
- Jasmine or Brown Rice, Fresh Spring Rolls, Crab Rangoon, Sticky Rice (when available).
Pros
- Flavor consistency: sauces taste developed, not one-note or overly sweet.
- Portion value: generous plates that often leave enough for leftovers.
- Service mindset: polite, attentive, and efficient—even during peak windows.
- Customization: proteins, spice levels, and rice choices to match dietary preferences.
- Location appeal: Fairhaven convenience; easy to plan around errands or a stroll.
Reviews
- “Great service and great food. The vibes felt welcoming and the flavors were on point. For anyone craving a dependable Thai meal, this place hits the mark—delicious and satisfying.”
- “We were thrilled they were open for Sunday dinner and had the same great experience as always. Sauces stood out; the peanut dressing was so good that even a salad-skeptic cleaned the bowl. Veggies had that perfect crisp bite. Everyone at our table kept nibbling past full—always a good sign. We’ll be back.”
- “Excellent food at a fair price and genuinely kind customer service. The curry came with a choice of brown or white rice, and adding prawns cost only a little more. The space feels like a hidden gem—cozy and beautiful once you find it. Our bill for two was just over $40. Easy recommendation.”
- “We got Pad See Ew—one tofu, one chicken—and both were deeply flavorful. Portions were spot-on, rice cooked perfectly, and the early-bird dinner wait was very reasonable. The person taking orders was efficient, polite, and still mindful of health precautions. This will be a repeat stop whenever we’re in Bellingham.”
- “For a birthday dinner, the sweet-and-sour chicken arrived in a cardboard takeout box and the sauce soaked through; the box gave out. One side container also had a small crack, and utensils/napkins were missing. The flavors were solid, but packaging quality and completeness could be improved for special-occasion takeout.”
If you’re choosing what to order first time out, start with Pad See Ew or Panang Curry, add the Peanut Sauce Salad for the table, and select brown rice if you like a heartier pairing. For reliable Thai comfort food in Fairhaven, On Rice makes it easy to become a regular.