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Fish Cheeks
Master Critic Review
Fish Cheeks
8.7
Fish Cheeks is a high-energy NoHo spot for Thai-style seafood served family-style, from coconut crab curry to whole steamed fish drenched in herbs and chile. Diners come for bold flavors, shareable platters, and cocktails in a room that feels more like a busy Bangkok dinner party than a quiet neighborhood meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Coconut Crab Curry, Steamed Whole Fish with Thai Herbs, Crab Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Thai seafood cooked with big, spicy, shareable flavors in a lively room.
Who should go: Groups and couples craving bold Thai seafood.
When to visit: Prime dinner hours for full buzz and fresh specials.
What to order: Coconut crab curry, whole steamed fish, crab fried rice.
Insider tip: Book early and plan to share; spice levels run authentically high.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in NoHo and highly competitive after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Lafayette and Broadway are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but most diners lean polished due to the lively, scene-y atmosphere.
Noise level: Loud during peak dinner — conversation is possible but elevated voices are typical.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though small queues can form around 12:30–1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few strong options like vegetable curries and salads, but the menu skews seafood-heavy.
Vegan options: Limited; some salads and vegetable dishes apply, but confirm fish sauce usage.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be made gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible; alert the server for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for couples who enjoy lively energy and adventurous, spicy food; less ideal if you want a quiet, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but unpredictable; walk-ins are accepted, though waits are long during peak dinner. Arrive early or plan for a nearby bar while waiting.
Is it kid-friendly? Works for older kids or teens who like bold flavors; no dedicated kids’ menu and the noise level can be intense for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Vibrant Thai seafood, shareable platters, and bold spice levels that outperform more generic seafood spots downtown.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, mild flavors, or extensive vegan options — choose a calmer or more traditional Thai restaurant instead.
Hours
Monday12pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 11pm
Saturday12pm - 11pm
Sunday12pm - 10pm