Week #2 Street-style Thai food restaurants
I looove Thai food. And it’s not hard to find great Thai food in NYC. This week I’ve curated 2 of my favorite Thai places that specialized in street food.
Saranrom Thai
I just found out about this restaurant this summer. By far, this place is probably my second favorite Thai spot in NYC (yeah, after Ugly Baby in Brooklyn). It’s a bit far, in Elmhurst, Queens, but worth the travel.
They just opened last year. I think they really wanted to preserve the street food experience with the cozy vibe interior setups. They said “Saranrom” itself means to be cool, happy, and joyful.
The food itself was very authentic, as the chef, Chef Nueng, grew up in the old market in Bangkok at Phra Nakhon. Some recommended dishes are Yuk Pla Duk Fu (crispy fried shredded catfish with a spicy and tangy green mango salad), Clams with Basil Sauce, Fish Cake, and if you eat pork, my friends liked Southern Spicy Minced Pork.
Oh, they just got a Bib Gourmand from Michelin!
Saranrom Thai’s location:
LOOK Thai by Plant Love House
I came here because it was recommended by NYTimes, Zagat, EaterNY, Thrillest, New York Magazine, Village Voice and VICE. They were known for the comforting home-cooking dishes. I went to Bangkok a few years ago and ate amazing street food noodles there. So far, this restaurant has brought me to that street food experience in Bangkok the most.
The interior really reminded me of where I’m from, Indonesia, where they had an old-fashioned interior with colorful decor. The atmosphere was very welcoming, the prices were reasonable, and the food was superb.
Definitely get the Guay Tiao Num Tok if you’re a meat-eater as it’s recommended by NYTimes and Eater. But, for a pescatarian like me, get the Bamee Poo Moo Dang which is also recommended by NYTimes. But ask to only get the crab meat. For the sides, get some appetizers like Fish Cakes and Papaya Salad which were also incredible! They’re super spicy tho, so ask the spiciness level beforehand.
LOOK Thai by Plant Love House’s location:
