TLDR
Vibrant, seafood-heavy Thai spot known for bold flavors, inventive cocktails, and an iconic steamed fish. A top-tier, lively destination for those seeking a modern twist on classic Thai favorites.
Instagram Posts References
The reviewer had an exceptional dining experience at Fish Cheeks NYC, a Thai restaurant. They were thoroughly impressed with all the dishes, finding them delicious and worth ordering. The whole fish dish, in particular, was described as stealing the show and melting in the mouth. The author highly recommends the restaurant for its great vibe and food, especially for those who love Thai cuisine, indicating it's a must-visit in Manhattan. The post also mentions that the experience was a '내돈내산' (paid for by myself) review, reinforcing its authenticity.
Fish Cheeks NYC is touted as the premier Thai restaurant in New York City, celebrated for its stylish decor and consistently impressive menu. The reviewer raves about multiple dishes, including the addictively tangy Zab Wings, the 'outstanding' Curry Glazed Mussels and Grilled Pork Cheeks, and especially the 'iconic' Steamed Fish, which is described as a 'beautiful concoction of citrus, garlic, cilantro, Thai chillies and fish' that achieves a perfect balance of flavors. The Sautéed Cabbage, char-grilled and infused with garlic and fish sauce, unexpectedly becomes a personal favorite. Other praised dishes include the 'excellent' Dry-Aged Beef Kaprao with its distinct funk, the 'delicious as always' Crab Curry, and the 'spectacular' Tile Fish Tome, hailed as the best curry dish at the restaurant. The dining experience left the reviewer picking bones and scraping plates, emphasizing the high quality and deliciousness of every item.
Details
Renowned for its vibrant, seafood-forward Thai cuisine, this restaurant has become a go-to destination in Manhattan for diners seeking bold, elevated flavors [1], [2]. While it is celebrated for iconic dishes like its steamed fish and crab-centric creations [1], [3], the dining experience is characterized by a lively atmosphere that remains accessible and popular for both casual outings and special occasions [4], [5]. Though some diners occasionally find specific curries inconsistent or the pricing steep, the overwhelming consensus among many locals and visitors is that it stands as a top-tier choice for modern Thai in the city [6], [7].
Food Overview
Specializing in elevated Thai seafood, the menu is widely lauded for its balanced flavor profiles, particularly in the use of fresh herbs, acid, and heat [1], [2]. While the steamed fish, crab curry, and zaab wings are frequently highlighted as standout favorites [3], [4], some diners have occasionally found certain dishes like the curry to be thinner or less complex than expected [5], [6].
Highlights / Recommended
"Highly recommended dishes include the iconic steamed fish, crab curry, zaab wings, crispy rice salad, and the garlic martini [1], [3], [5]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •crab fried rice(14)
- •steamed fish(12)
- •crab curry(10)
- •oysters(8)
- •coconut crab curry(4)
- •zabb wings(3)
- •green curry(3)
- •pork cheeks(3)
- •crispy rice salad(3)
- •zaab wings(3)
- •steamed branzino(3)
- •cocktails(2)
- •prawn karee(2)
Customer Sentiment
Customer feedback is generally highly positive, with many diners praising the creative, citrus-forward recipes and the restaurant's consistently excellent, fun atmosphere [1], [2]. However, some patrons have expressed disappointment regarding inconsistent dish quality, pricing, or the noise level during peak hours [3], [4].
Caveats
Some diners find the restaurant pricey, noting that certain entrees do not include rice, and others mention it can become quite noisy and crowded during busy service times [1], [2].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About FISH CHEEKS
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Thai Diner First Time The Coconut Chicken And
"User rates it 10/10."
PositiveFrom post: Thai Diner First Time The Coconut Chicken And
"User thinks the place is very good."
PositiveFrom post: Thai Diner First Time The Coconut Chicken And
"Recommended as a go-to Thai spot in the city."
PositiveFrom post: After Looking At Every Menu On Restaurant Week I
"Mentioned as part of a list of recommended restaurants."
NeutralFrom post: Seafood Restaurant Recommendations That Are Must
"Listed as one of four distinct seafood styles in the city, specifically Thai seafood."
PositiveFrom post: Bangbang Recommendations For Parents Night Out
"Recommended for a bang-bang."
PositiveFrom post: Brooklyn Eats For Lovers Next Weekend Help Us
"Recommended as a Thai restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: First Time Trying Thai Food As Someone With Nut
"The commenter believes this high-end restaurant would be experienced with complex allergies."
PositiveFrom post: With Restaurant Week You Just Need To Know Where
"The user had a great experience at Fish Cheeks with no complaints."
PositiveFrom post: Places To Take Kids That Are Young But Cultured
"Briefly recommended."
NeutralFrom post: The Absolute Best Weekday Lunch Options In Nyc
"Mentioned as an option."
NeutralFrom post: Dinner Drinks Spot For 6 Mid20s Guys Before A
"Recommended as one of the best Thai restaurants in the East Village, suitable for larger groups."
PositiveFrom post: Whats Your Favorite Shrimp Dish That Youve Had In
"The user recommends the prawn karee."
PositiveFrom post: Can Reservation For 9 7 Adults 2 Kids Avoid A Pre
"The user is looking for a place to eat and notes that Fishcheeks requires a $90 minimum spend."
NeutralFrom post: I Have A Question About Thai Diner Walkins On
"Superior to Thai Diner regarding flavor."
PositiveFrom post: I Have A Question About Thai Diner Walkins On
"Suggested as a backup option if a reservation at Thai Diner is not possible."
NeutralFrom post: I Have A Question About Thai Diner Walkins On
"Recommended as a viable backup option to Thai Diner for a reservation."
PositiveFrom post: Is There An Obvious Choice Between Ariari And
"The commenter acknowledges the restaurant is very good, but suggests it may be a known quantity for someone already familiar with high-quality Thai cuisine."
PositiveFrom post: Stuck In My Hotel For The Day What To Order In In
"The crab curry is specifically praised as being amazing."
PositiveFrom post: Stuck In My Hotel For The Day What To Order In In
"The restaurant is agreed upon as a good Thai recommendation."
Positive