Intensely spicy Isan Thai cuisine known for its authentic heat. Popular for fiery larb and papaya salads.
This Isan Thai restaurant is a standout for those seeking authentic, intensely flavorful, and spicy dishes. Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its ability to deliver genuine Thai heat, with popular recommendations including their larb and papaya salad. It's a highly regarded spot for experiencing the vibrant and fiery tastes of Isan cuisine.
This restaurant specializes in Isan Thai cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and significant spice levels. Many customers rave about the authenticity and the ability to customize the heat, with dishes like larb and papaya salad being particularly popular and highly recommended. Some customers have found the spice levels to be extremely intense, even when requesting moderate heat, so diners sensitive to spice should proceed with caution.
"Customers frequently recommend the larb, papaya salad (somtum), and Nam Khao Tod, noting their exceptional flavor and authentic spiciness."
Customers generally have a very positive sentiment towards this restaurant, frequently recommending it for its authentic and intensely spicy Isan Thai cuisine. Specific dishes like larb and papaya salad are often highlighted for their flavor and heat.
Important Note
Be aware that the restaurant is known for its authentic and very high spice levels, which may be overwhelming for some diners. It's advisable to be very clear about your desired spice level.
"This user endorses Hug Esan, noting that their somtums are excellent. They specifically advise requesting Thai spicy for a very intense flavor."
Positive"This commenter recommends Hug Esan for excellent larb and nam tok dishes, which are typically spicy Thai salads. They suggest this as one of the best places in the city for such preparations."
Positive"Thai spicy from Hug Esan is listed as a recommendation from a previous discussion about spicy dishes in NYC."
Neutral"Hug Esan's papaya salad is suggested for a spicy kick."
Positive"Hug Esan was listed as a recommendation for whole fish in Queens."
Neutral"This commenter favors Hug Esan currently, particularly for its Nom Khao Tod, which they find to be a well-executed dish. The restaurant's proximity to Khao Nom for dessert is also a plus."
Positive"This is a recommendation for Hug Esan as a place to try in Elmhurst."
Neutral"This restaurant is suggested for its offerings of chicken, lamb, and seafood, making it suitable for diners avoiding beef and pork who also prefer rice-heavy dishes."
Neutral"The author notes Hug Esan as a favorite BYOB spot, mentioning a corkage fee of $1 per beer and $5 per wine/soju bottle. They appreciate discovering restaurants with BYOB options, especially those without a liquor license."
Positive"This comment states that anything at Hug Esan will be extremely spicy ("fyu") if ordered "Thai spicy.""
Negative"This user agrees with the previous recommendation for Hug Esan's spicy papaya salad, noting its well-deserved popularity."
Positive"The user finds Hug Esan's Thai spicy papaya salad to be spicier than Zaab Zaab's Larb, stating they love spicy food but cannot finish it all at once."
Positive"Hug Esan, like Playground, is noted for offering "legit Thai spicy" food, with staff warning customers."
Positive"Hug Edam's Som Tum (papaya salad) is described as both spicy and delicious."
Positive"This user recommends Thai restaurants in Elmhurst, including Hug Esan, advising to ask for "REAL thai spicy" with a Thai friend to ensure the request is taken seriously."
Neutral"Based on the previous comment, this user is motivated to visit Hug Esan for the spicy food."
Positive"A user at Hug Esan, after selecting a level 7 spice on a 1-15 scale for papaya salad, deeply regretted their choice, indicating extreme heat."
Negative"This comment highlights the "Thai hot" papaya salad at Hug Esan in Elmhurst as a very spicy dish."
Positive"Hug Esan is mentioned for Nam Khao Tod/Yam Naem, described as a favorite Isan Thai dish."
Positive"The user states that Hug Esan's version of a dish (implied Nam Khao Tod) is a favorite in NYC, rivaling Fish Cheeks."
Positive
