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Best Thai Restaurants in East Village (10009)

5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: January 2026

Our Top Pick
Somtum Der
Isan-style heat-and-herb cooking centered on som tum and grilled meats.

Notable Picks

$ East Village
An Isan-focused Thai table built for bold spice, sharp herbs, and the kind of grilled-meat-and-salad rhythm that rewards ordering to share. Go heavy on som tum and larb, balance the heat with sticky rice, and treat it as a lively, fast-moving dinner rather than a lingering hang.
Must-Try Dishes: Som Tum (papaya salad), Larb (Isan minced meat salad), Moo Ping (grilled pork)
What makes it special: Isan-style heat-and-herb cooking centered on som tum and grilled meats.
$$ East Village
A small East Village Thai kitchen that wins on reliable wok heat and straightforward comfort dishes that travel well. It’s best as a focused order—one noodle, one curry, one crisp side—built for weeknight cravings and efficient lunches.
Must-Try Dishes: Pad See Ew, Pad Kee Mao (drunken noodles), Green Curry
What makes it special: Wok-forward Thai staples that stay satisfying even as takeout.

Worthy Picks

$$$ Alphabet City
A speakeasy-leaning room with Thai heart and Japanese izakaya energy, where the point is bold flavors plus a nightlife-ready vibe. Go for the spicy noodle play and curry-driven plates, then treat the cocktails as part of the experience rather than value hunting.
Must-Try Dishes: Kee Mao Tiger Udon, Black Panther Curry, Tom Yum Ramen
What makes it special: Speakeasy energy with Thai-Japanese mashups and showy cocktails.
$$ East Village
A tiny, street-food-leaning Thai counter built for fast takeout and big flavor without the dining-room fuss. Order the classics, keep the spice level honest, and think of it as your go-to reset meal rather than a sit-down night out.
Must-Try Dishes: Pad Thai, Khao Soi, Pad Kra Pao (basil chicken)
What makes it special: Street-food-style Thai in a blink-and-you-miss-it takeout format.
7.7
$$ Alphabet City
A laid-back neighborhood Thai spot that’s strongest when you stick to the dependable crowd-pleasers—curries, pad Thai, and stir-fries that land consistently. It’s a practical choice for casual dinners and easy group orders, not a destination tasting.
Must-Try Dishes: Pad Thai, Panang Curry, Tom Yum Soup
What makes it special: Reliable Thai classics with a neighborhood-first feel.