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Playground

71-30 Roosevelt Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
$$
Thai

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Master Critic Review

Playground 8.2
Jackson Heights – Roosevelt Ave Corridor
A late-day Thai staple on Roosevelt Ave built for assertive spice and crowd-pleasing share plates. Order the crunchy, sour, herb-heavy salads and a curry or noodle base, then let the table mix-and-match heat levels.
Must-Try Dishes: Curried rice croquette salad with preserved pork, Tom yum soup, Panang curry
Scores:
Value: 8.4 Service: 8 Consistency: 8.3 Food Quality: 8.6 Atmosphere: 6.5 Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Big flavors, real Thai spice, and shareable crunchy salads.
Who should go: Night owls chasing spicy Thai
When to visit: Late evenings for full energy
What to order: Rice croquette salad, tom yum, panang curry
Insider tip: Order medium first—spice runs hotter than expected.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; very competitive on Roosevelt Ave after 6pm. Plan extra time or use nearby paid lots if circling fails.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—jeans, sneakers, and going-out tops all fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate to loud in the evenings—fine for groups, less ideal for quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak late-night hours
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait or walk-in friendly most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-based salads, curries, and noodle dishes can be ordered meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—stick to salads and curries without fish sauce; confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free dishes available, but cross-contact is possible; communicate clearly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, energetic first date than an intimate one—the spice, noise, and shared plates create fun momentum but not a quiet vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially late-night or on weekdays, but peak weekend hours often mean a short wait—arrive earlier if timing matters.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids due to spice-forward food and late-night energy; better suited for teens who can handle heat.
Best For
Better for: Bold spice levels, crunchy Thai salads, and group-friendly ordering compared to milder neighborhood Thai spots.
Skip if: You want a quiet, polished dining room or Thai food dialed down for sensitive palates.