TLDR
Authentic, regional Thai specialties and vibrant Bangkok-inspired decor on the UES. A standout for those seeking beyond-the-basics flavors.
Instagram Posts References
Thaphraya NYC participated as a vendor in the Thai SELECT Festival held at Grand Central Terminal in NYC, an event celebrating authentic Thai food and culture, attended by Thai stars Mile Phakphum Romsaithong and Apo Nattawin Wattanagitiphat.
The reviewer had a positive experience at Tha Phraya, highlighting several dishes and drinks. The 'Midnight Rush' cocktail was praised for its authentic pandan flavor, making it the best drink of the meal. The spring rolls were also a hit, described as flavorful and slightly spicy, with a sauce that complemented them well. The mango sticky rice was another highlight, with the mango being noted as particularly fresh and superior to what is typically found elsewhere. The 'Beef Ka Prow' was tender but not the reviewer's favorite, leading to curiosity about other main courses. The 'Tuk Tuk Punch' cocktail was deemed just 'fine' and did not meet the reviewer's high expectations for butterfly pea flower cocktails. Despite minor critiques, the reviewer expressed a desire to return to the restaurant.
Details
Transporting diners from the Upper East Side to the vibrant streets of Bangkok, this Bib Gourmand-certified spot is celebrated for its authentic, regional Thai specialties [1]. The menu goes beyond standard takeout fare, focusing on freshly ground spices and creative dishes designed for sharing [1], [2]. While highly regarded by many, some diners have noted concerns regarding portion sizes and pricing [3].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in regional Thai cuisine, with popular recommendations including pomelo salad, fried whole branzino in kaeng som curry, and sai-ua spring rolls [1], [2]. While the mango sticky rice and pandan-flavored cocktails receive high praise, some patrons find dishes like beef ka prow less memorable [2], [5].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About THA PHRAYA
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: After Looking At Every Menu On Restaurant Week I
"The user suggests Tha Phraya as a restaurant with a good menu for Restaurant Week."
PositiveFrom post: Whats Good To Eat Near 88th Between Madison And
"The restaurant is mentioned as a dining option located further east."
NeutralFrom post: Midtown Or Upper East Side Restaurant For Tonight
"This is another Thai restaurant mentioned as an option."
NeutralFrom post: Midtown Or Upper East Side Restaurant For Tonight
"This Thai restaurant was listed as a dining suggestion."
NeutralFrom post: Excellent Thai From Newcomer Wanglang In Flatiron
"Wanglang is noted as being more similar to Tha Phraya. However, the commenter prefers Wanglang due to its more varied menu and better beef in the Khao Soi."
NeutralFrom post: What Is Your Top 3 Restaurants In The Ues
"In response to a user's concern about Tha Phraya's sanitary grade, this user asked where the information was found."
NeutralFrom post: What Is Your Top 3 Restaurants In The Ues
"This user stated they personally prefer Up Thai over Tha Phraya, as they were not impressed with Tha Phraya."
NegativeFrom post: What Is Your Top 3 Restaurants In The Ues
"This user stated Tha Phraya is easily the best Thai restaurant on the UES."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Top 3 Restaurants In The Ues
"This user recommended Tha Phraya."
PositiveFrom post: Manhattan Thai
"This user recommended Tha Phraya, noting its Upper East Side location."
PositiveFrom post: Manhattan Thai
"This user enthusiastically endorsed Tha Phraya, calling it 'super legit' and mentioning its Upper East Side location."
PositiveFrom post: Manhattan Thai
"This user listed Tha Phraya as a recommended Thai restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: Why Are Nearly All Of The Highly Recommended Food
"Tha Praya was an excellent Thai restaurant on the UES, but it had to 'tone itself down for the locals'."
NegativeFrom post: Where To Get Miang Kham
"The user simply states the name of the restaurant, Tha Phraya."
NeutralFrom post: Where To Get Miang Kham
"The user briefly states that they have had miang kham at Tha Phraya."
NeutralFrom post: Thai Food
"This user strongly recommends Tha Phraya, indicating it is among their top choices."
PositiveFrom post: Thai Food
"This user ranks Tha Phraya as their second choice for Thai food."
Positive