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Thai Diner
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Thai Diner
9.0
From chefs Ann Redding and Matt Danzer, Thai Diner fuses a classic New York diner format with deeply flavored Thai dishes and brunch plates, all in a packed Nolita room lined with bamboo, rattan, and counter stools. Michelin Bib Gourmand status, nonstop crowds, and thousands of strong reviews make it one of downtown’s most consistently celebrated Thai restaurants for both brunch and dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khao Soi, Thai Disco Fries (massaman curry fries), Crab Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: A Michelin-recognized, diner-style Thai spot blending comfort food and Bangkok flavors on a buzzy Nolita corner.
Who should go: Diners seeking destination-level Thai with brunch and cocktails.
When to visit: Arrive early for brunch or late lunch to avoid long waits.
What to order: Khao soi, Thai disco fries, crab fried rice.
Insider tip: Lines are longest at peak dinner—solo diners often snag counter seats fastest.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on Mott and Kenmare; expect metered spots to be scarce during brunch and dinner rush. Nearby garages on Elizabeth and Mulberry typically have space but charge premium Nolita rates.
Dress code: Casual but stylish—typical Nolita brunch attire. Jeans and tees are fine, but many diners lean fashion-forward.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak brunch and dinner; conversation is possible but not intimate, especially at the counter.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes without a reservation; the walk-in list moves steadily but stays long.
Weekday lunch: Typically 10–20 minutes, though peak noon windows can briefly spike higher.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several dishes can be made vegetarian, including curries and fried rice; staff are accustomed to guiding substitutions.
Vegan options: Limited—some salads, vegetable curries, and sides can be made vegan, but dairy and fish sauce appear in many staples.
Gluten-free options: Moderate options—many rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free, but sauces may contain soy; notify staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, high-energy dates. The buzzy room and comfort-driven menu make it fun, though noise levels and tight spacing are not ideal for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but expect to wait. Thai Diner holds space for walk-ins, and solo diners or pairs can often be seated faster at the counter.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who can handle spicy or flavorful dishes. No dedicated kids’ menu, but the diner-style setting and milder options like fried rice work well for flexible eaters.
Best For
Better for: Brunch, Thai-American comfort dishes, and a lively Nolita scene; excels at flavor-packed plates in a diner-inspired setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, traditional-only Thai cooking, or spacious seating—consider alternatives with calmer dining rooms or more classic menus.
Thai Diner
8.6
Opened in 2020 by Ann Redding and Matt Danzer, this Nolita fixture blends Thai flavors with American diner comfort—think egg sandwiches on roti, disco fries in curry, and coconut sundaes. Covered outdoor seating keeps the lines of humans and dogs moving through breakfast, brunch, and dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Thai Diner Egg Sandwich, Thai Disco Fries, Coconut Pancakes with Sangkaya
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Bib-Gourmand Thai diner where playful comfort dishes meet a dog-friendly corner patio.
Who should go: Thai food fans wanting playful comfort dishes and strong cocktails.
When to visit: Off-peak brunch or late dinner; lines shrink noticeably.
What to order: Thai Diner Egg Sandwich, Thai Disco Fries, coconut pancakes.
Insider tip: Join the waitlist early and ask specifically for patio seating with your dog.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on Mott and Mulberry turn over slowly and get tight after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual but polished; diners lean stylish Nolita streetwear rather than formal.
Noise level: Moderate–lively; conversations are possible but brunch rush can get loud outdoors.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes depending on weather and patio demand.
Weekday lunch: Usually a brief 5–15 minute wait; sometimes immediate seating outdoors.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — several dishes can be made vegetarian, including roti-based plates and noodle dishes.
Vegan options: Limited — a few sides and modified dishes, but many signatures rely on eggs or dairy.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — some curries and rice dishes work, but roti and many diner-style items contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want playful, high-flavor food in a buzzy setting. The patio feels casual and fun, though not ideal for a hushed, intimate first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes — join the waitlist early and expect a line during peak brunch and dinner. Patio tables are first to go, especially for dog owners.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably — outdoor tables work well for families, and the menu has mild, shareable comfort items. Indoors is tighter, better for older kids than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Creative Thai-American comfort dishes, strong brunch energy, and one of the more reliable dog-friendly setups in Nolita.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, strictly traditional Thai cooking, or guaranteed quick seating during peak brunch hours.