A lively, upscale Thai/Malaysian spot w/ flavorful nasi lemak & vibrant street-art vibes. Great for groups, but expect a buzz (and higher prices).
Laut, situated in the heart of Union Square, offers a vibrant and energetic dining experience with a menu that expertly blends Malaysian, Singaporean, and Thai flavors. Known for its lively atmosphere and colorful decor, it's a popular choice for those seeking bold tastes and a buzzing environment. While it can be on the pricier side, the unique culinary journey and well-executed dishes, like the highly recommended nasi lemak, make it a noteworthy destination.
Laut specializes in Malaysian, Singaporean, and Thai cuisine, with many users recommending it as a top spot for these flavors. The nasi lemak is frequently highlighted as a must-try, praised for its complex taste and presentation. Some dishes like the chili crab and satay chicken also receive positive mentions. However, there are dissenting opinions, with some finding the food to be average, bland, or not authentic, and one reviewer had a particularly negative experience.
"The nasi lemak is frequently highlighted as a standout dish, praised for its visual appeal and complex flavors. Chili crab, satay chicken, and Iced Teh Tarik are also recommended."
Customer feedback is largely positive, with many praising Laut as an underrated gem and a great option for Malaysian and Southeast Asian cuisine. However, a few diners have found the flavors to be less authentic or even bland, and some note the restaurant can be quite expensive.
Important Note
The restaurant can be quite expensive, and some diners have noted that the atmosphere is very loud.
"Laut is recommended for Malaysian/Singaporean food."
Positive"Recommended the Singapore Chili Crab from Laut."
Positive"Recommended the Singapore Chili Crab from Laut."
Positive"This user mentioned they tend to order the Thai dishes when dining at Laut."
Neutral"This user clarified that Laut serves a mix of Malaysian, Singaporean, and Thai dishes, acknowledging it might not strictly fit a Thai-only list."
Neutral"This user questioned if Laut is primarily a Malaysian restaurant, suggesting it might not fit a list focused on Thai cuisine."
Neutral"This user mentioned Laut as one of the usual recommended places for Singaporean food in Manhattan, but found it to be 'fine at best'."
Neutral"This user found Laut to be 'quite average' and mentioned it as one of the usual recommended places in Manhattan that are 'fine at best'."
Negative"This user responded with a simple 'No' when asked about Laut."
Negative"This user stated that Laut is good, although they haven't had it in a long time."
Positive"This user tried Char Kway Teow from Laut and found it 'quite good', though they had no prior reference for the dish."
Positive"This user asked if Laut would be recommended."
Neutral"This user recommends Laut for Singapore chili crab, noting it was flavorful and good for sharing. They mention Laut is owned by the same team as Singapura."
Positive"This user mentioned Laut in response to a comment about Curry Laksa, suggesting it as a place to get it."
Neutral"This user states they really like Laut."
Positive"In response to a query about Laut, this user states that flavors were bland when they visited last month."
Negative"This user expresses surprise at the negative mention of Laut, as they previously loved it before COVID."
Positive"This user states that Laut is not the correct answer for the best Malaysian restaurant, implying it's not good."
Negative"This user lists Laut as a recommendation."
Positive
