TLDR
Traditional 'Sum Rub' Thai flavors served in an ornate, two-story Upper West Side townhouse. A neighborhood staple known for exceptional lunch value and signature purple dumplings.
Instagram Posts References
Included in a list of favorite Thai restaurants in NYC, Sala Thai is shown with images of corn salad and spring rolls, indicating a diverse menu.
Sala Thai, located on the Upper West Side, specializes in 'Sum Rub' cuisine, which focuses on traditional Thai flavors that are not commonly found. The chef has dedicated over a year to perfecting each recipe, aiming to offer a unique culinary experience. The post highlights the transformation that occurs in their kitchen, from ingredients to the final presentation of dishes. Reservations are available through OpenTable.
Sala Thai offers a lunch special under $20 with huge portions. The beef kea mao was exceptional and it's a great takeout option for UWS residents.
Bryan Kim reviews Sala Thai, an Upper West Side Thai restaurant with a bar and a separate dining room, highlighting its ornate decor and diverse menu of curries, noodles, and unique appetizers, making it a great spot for dates or casual dinners.
Details
A popular neighborhood spot on the Upper West Side, this restaurant offers a relaxed sit-down experience in an upstairs dining room featuring ornate decor [1]. The kitchen specializes in traditional 'Sum Rub' Thai cuisine, focusing on recipes that have been meticulously perfected by the chef [2]. Whether for a casual lunch or a dinner with friends, it remains a consistent go-to for locals seeking well-regarded Thai fare [3], [4].
Food Overview
The menu spans traditional Thai curries and noodles, alongside more unique items like taro samosas and razor clams in coconut milk [1], [5]. Customers frequently rave about the lunch specials, citing generous portions and exquisite, lightly perfumed flavors [6]. While most feedback is positive, some diners consider the quality to be fine but not necessarily worth traveling across the city for [4].
The purple dumplings are a standout favorite, and the larb gai is also highly recommended by patrons [1], [4]. For lunch, the beef kea mao is considered an exceptional choice that offers great value [7].
Patrons generally view the restaurant as a reliable, quality local destination and often express confusion regarding any rumors of a decline in quality [1], [2]. While highly regarded for lunch value, it is sometimes described as a solid neighborhood option rather than a high-end destination for those seeking an upscale, dressy date night [3], [4].
Caveats
Some diners feel the atmosphere is more casual neighborhood-focused rather than a 'dressed to the nines' formal destination for romantic occasions [3]. Additionally, it is noted by some as being a decent local spot that might not warrant a special trip from outside the immediate neighborhood [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About SALA THAI
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: What Are Good Restaurant Recommendations Near
"Recommended as part of a list of local dining options."
PositiveFrom post: Solo Dining Recommendations In Upper West Side
"Noted as a well-known destination for Thai, though potentially more due to the lunch deal than the food quality, which is described as just fine."
NeutralFrom post: Solo Dining Recommendations In Upper West Side
"Recommended for Thai food."
PositiveFrom post: Solo Dining Recommendations In Upper West Side
"Mentioned as pretty good, specifically noting they like the larb gai."
PositiveFrom post: Need Ideas Thai Or Vietnamese Sit Down Spots In
"The commenter defends the restaurant, expressing confusion regarding negative claims about it going downhill."
Positive