Thai food has become a popular choice for many people in New York City. The city offers a variety of restaurants that serve authentic and flavorful Thai dishes. Exploring these places can give diners a taste of Thailand without leaving the city.
This article highlights the 12 best Thai restaurants in New York, helping readers find quality spots to enjoy traditional and modern Thai cuisine. Whether someone prefers spicy curries or classic noodles, these restaurants provide many options to suit different tastes.
1) Thai Diner, NoLita
Thai Diner offers classic Thai flavors in a casual setting. It combines traditional dishes with a diner-style atmosphere. The restaurant is known for good value and solid quality.
It is located in NoLita, Manhattan. Thai Diner has been recognized by the Michelin Guide. They also opened a new spot called Mommy Pai’s focused on Thai chicken fingers and drinks.
This restaurant is popular for its approachable menu and relaxed vibe. Many visitors appreciate its balance of taste and comfort. More details can be found at the Michelin Guide.
2) Somtum Der, East Village
Somtum Der serves authentic Isan cuisine from northeastern Thailand.
It is known for dishes like green papaya salad, larb, and sticky rice.
The restaurant focuses on fresh, balanced flavors without heavy sweetness.
Located in the East Village, it remains a popular spot for traditional Thai food.
More details can be found at Somtum Der’s official website.
3) Fish Cheeks, Nolita
Fish Cheeks serves authentic Thai seafood in Nolita. Its menu offers dishes like Coconut Crab Curry and Zabb Wings. The restaurant focuses on family-style meals with fresh, traditional flavors. More details are available on the Fish Cheeks website.
4) Thai Villa, Midtown
Thai Villa serves authentic Thai dishes in Midtown New York. It offers both popular favorites and rare recipes originally made for Thai royalty. The restaurant is known for its flavorful and carefully prepared meals.
Visitors appreciate the calm atmosphere and attentive service. Thai Villa is a good choice for those who want more than typical street food. More details are available on the Thai Villa website.
5) Soothr, Lower East Side
Soothr offers Thai dishes inspired by recipes from different parts of Thailand. It focuses on authentic flavors with a modern touch.
The restaurant is located in the East Village, near the Lower East Side. It has received positive reviews for its fresh ingredients and balanced spices.
Soothr’s menu includes noodles, curries, and street food-style options. It is a good choice for those wanting a true taste of Thai cuisine in New York City.
More details and reviews can be found at Soothr’s Tripadvisor page.
6) Ugly Baby, Brooklyn
Ugly Baby was a well-known Thai restaurant in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn. It was praised for its spicy Northern Thai dishes. The restaurant permanently closed in December 2024. Its space is now home to Hungry Thirsty, a new Thai spot run by former Ugly Baby staff.
Learn more about Ugly Baby’s closing and the new restaurant here.
7) THEP Thai Restaurant, Flatiron
THEP Thai Restaurant offers authentic Thai dishes in a cozy setting. It is known for friendly service and well-prepared meals.
The restaurant features dog-friendly outdoor seating with heaters, making it comfortable year-round. It is a good choice for those seeking classic Thai flavors in New York City.
More details about THEP Thai Restaurant can be found on their official website.
8) Wondee Siam, East Village
Wondee Siam offers classic Thai dishes with balanced flavors. It is known for its fresh ingredients and authentic recipes. Many visitors appreciate its casual atmosphere and consistent quality. More details can be found on the Wondee Siam menu and reviews.
9) LumLum, Hell’s Kitchen
LumLum is a Thai seafood restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen known for its casual, bright setting. It offers dishes like crab fried rice and large river prawns. The space features bamboo and rattan decor that fits a coastal theme. More details can be found at LumLum’s official site.
10) Bangkok Degree, Park Slope
Bangkok Degree serves authentic Thai dishes in a relaxed Park Slope setting. The menu includes classics like pad thai and unique items such as mussels paradise. The restaurant is known for good service and a variety of flavorful options. More details are available at Bangkok Degree’s Restaurantji listing.
11) Noree Thai Bazaar, Queens
Noree Thai Bazaar offers a solid menu with classic Thai dishes. The seafood fried rice is a popular choice, known for its fresh mix of shrimp, calamari, and mussels.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is casual and suitable for groups or casual dining. Reviews mention good flavors but note prices are slightly higher than average. More details about Noree Thai Bazaar can be found on its menu and reviews page.
12) Noods n’ Chill, Brooklyn
Noods n’ Chill offers authentic Thai flavors in Brooklyn. It is known for quick service and affordable prices. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed dining experience.
The restaurant began in Queens in 2013 and expanded to Brooklyn. It is recognized as a minority and women-owned business.
Popular dishes include Kra paw and Bamee mockduck. Customers value its mix of traditional taste and casual atmosphere.
More details can be found on the Noods n’ Chill website.