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Chalong
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Chalong
8.8
Southern‑Thai cooking with seafood and bold curries in a wood‑and‑rattan Hell’s Kitchen space — locals come for the crab curry and coconut‑infused cocktails. The menu balances authentic regional dishes with friendly service and a vibrant pre‑show dinner vibe.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baerng Gorae (Southern crab curry), Garlic‑braised ribs with rice, Mango sticky rice with coconut ice cream
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Southern Thai–style seafood and curries rarely focused in Manhattan Thai restaurants.
Who should go: Seafood lovers seeking bold Thai flavors.
When to visit: Pre‑show dinner or weekend night.
What to order: Crab curry, garlic ribs, mango sticky rice.
Insider tip: Go early — lines form quickly before Broadway shows.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be difficult, especially during peak hours. Valet service is available for $20.
Dress code: Smart casual is ideal, though jeans are fine. Dress a bit nicer for a date night.
Noise level: Moderate - it can get lively, but you can still comfortably talk with your dining companion.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation, expect longer waits before Broadway shows.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, but can be busier around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several options, including vegetable curries and stir-fries.
Vegan options: Limited - a few plant-based options such as tofu-based dishes and vegetable curries.
Gluten-free options: Yes - they offer a separate prep area for gluten-free dishes.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it's perfect for a first date. The intimate vibe and flavorful menu make for a memorable experience, especially with their coconut-infused cocktails.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends or before Broadway shows when the place tends to get packed.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s not particularly tailored for young kids, but older children or teenagers will enjoy the bold flavors. There are no dedicated kids' menus, but many dishes can be adjusted for younger tastes.
Best For
Better for: Chalong excels with bold, Southern Thai flavors and unique seafood dishes that you won’t find at most Manhattan Thai spots.
Skip if: If you're looking for a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere or if you're not a fan of spicy food, you might want to consider other options.
Chalong
8.0
This Bib Gourmand Southern Thai spot brings punchy, region-specific flavors to a casual Hell’s Kitchen room. Expect bold curries, charcoal notes, and share-friendly plates that keep locals coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Moo Hong Phuket-style pork belly, Crabmeat jor pu, Vegan green curry
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Southern Thai cooking with real heat and depth at Bib-level value.
Who should go: Spice seekers and friend groups
When to visit: Dinner with a reservation—walk-ins fill fast
What to order: Moo Hong, crab jor pu, green curry
Insider tip: Tell them your heat comfort; they’ll steer you smartly.