Looking for a Thai restaurant in Peckham? Just a mile away in neighbouring Nunhead, you’ll find one of South East London’s most unusual dining experiences. Chai’s Garden combines authentic Thai cooking with the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Skehan’s, a family-run Irish pub that has been part of the local community for more than 25 years.
Hidden behind the pub is Chai’s Garden, a peaceful glasshouse restaurant surrounded by flowers, where fragrant Thai dishes are freshly prepared every day. It feels like a world away from the lively front bar, yet both spaces are part of the same family story.
A Pub With Thai Food That Has Its Own Story
The combination of an Irish pub and authentic Thai restaurant might sound unexpected, but at Skehan’s it has become part of what makes the venue so special.
Madam Chai first came to London as a teenager and began her hospitality career working alongside family in a Thai restaurant. Looking to create something of her own, she met Bill Skehan while he was managing a pub in Islington. Chai suggested bringing authentic Thai food into the pub, and together they proved the combination worked brilliantly.
When the opportunity came to take over a large Irish pub in Nunhead, they brought the same idea with them. At the time, the pub had only a small group of regulars, but through years of hard work, genuine hospitality and outstanding food, they transformed it into Skehan’s, the thriving community pub it is today.
Authentic Thai Food, Freshly Prepared Every Day
Chai’s Garden has now been delighting customers for decades with traditional Thai cooking made fresh to order.
The menu brings together vibrant appetisers, classic curries, fragrant stir-fries and much-loved Thai favourites. Every dish is prepared with care using traditional recipes and techniques.
One of the restaurant’s unique features is its open kitchen, where guests can catch a glimpse of the chefs preparing each dish behind the garden window.
Dine in the Restaurant or Enjoy a Pub With Thai Food
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Skehan’s is that you don’t have to choose between a restaurant and a pub.
If you’re after a quieter evening, Chai’s Garden offers a relaxed and intimate setting surrounded by plants and flowers. A traditional wooden spirit house tucked into the corner adds to the atmosphere and reflects the restaurant’s Thai heritage.
Alternatively, you can order exactly the same menu and enjoy your meal inside the pub itself.
It’s a rare opportunity to experience a genuine pub with Thai food, where your dinner can be accompanied by live music, a busy quiz night or the excitement of live sport on multiple screens.
More Than Just Great Food
Every visit to Skehan’s can be different.
Visit on a Tuesday and enjoy authentic Thai food alongside the pub’s popular Irish and English Trad Session.
Come on a Thursday and put your knowledge to the test during Quiz Night.
If sport is more your thing, gather friends around one of the many screens showing Premier League football, rugby, GAA and other major sporting events.
During warmer months, the hidden beer garden provides the perfect place to enjoy a Thai feast with friends while soaking up the atmosphere.
A Family-Run Favourite Near Peckham
Today, Bill’s nephew Bryan continues the family tradition, helping to make Skehan’s one of Nunhead’s most welcoming independent pubs.
The lively music nights, friendly locals, beautiful hidden garden and authentic Thai cuisine have attracted customers from across Nunhead, Peckham and beyond.
If you’re searching for a Thai restaurant in Peckham, it’s well worth making the short journey to nearby Nunhead. At Chai’s Garden you’ll find far more than excellent food—you’ll discover a family story, a unique setting and one of South East London’s best-kept secrets.
FAQs
Where is Chai’s Garden?
Chai’s Garden is located within Skehan’s pub in Nunhead, around one mile from Peckham.
Can I eat Thai food inside the pub?
Yes. You can dine in the peaceful garden restaurant or enjoy the same menu inside the lively pub.
What time is Thai food served?
Authentic Thai food is served daily from 5:00pm until 9:30pm.
Does Skehan’s have live music?
Yes. Skehan’s hosts live music throughout the week, including trad sessions, jam nights, folk music and live gigs.
Is there outdoor seating?
Yes. Skehan’s has a beautiful hidden garden with plenty of seating for food and drinks.