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Wayla
Master Critic Review
Wayla
8.4
Wayla hides an underground Thai dining room and back patio behind an unassuming Forsyth Street entrance, serving homestyle dishes with market-style flavors and polished plating. The combination of moody interior, garden-like outdoor space, and a menu built for sharing has made it a reliable choice for dates and small groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Moo sarong pork meatballs, Khao pad pu crab fried rice, Peek gai tod chicken wings
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: An almost-hidden basement Thai spot with a leafy patio and dishes that feel more home-cooked than takeout.
Who should go: Small groups or couples wanting polished, shareable Thai plates.
When to visit: Prime dinner hours when the patio and bar hit full buzz.
What to order: Moo sarong meatballs, crab fried rice, chicken wings.
Insider tip: Request the backyard patio when booking if weather cooperates; it changes the feel of the meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Forsyth and adjacent LES blocks is limited, especially after 6pm; no valet. Nearest reliable option is paid garages along Chrystie Street and Delancey.
Dress code: Smart casual. Most diners lean stylish—think elevated casual outfits suitable for date night or a trendy downtown dinner.
Noise level: Moderate. Buzzier during peak dinner hours, but still manageable for conversation at two-tops, especially in the patio area.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is more relaxed and walk-in friendly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—several dishes are naturally vegetarian or can be requested with tofu substitutions.
Vegan options: Moderate—around 2–3 dishes can be made vegan, though sauces may limit flexibility.
Gluten-free options: Good options—many Thai dishes are rice-based; staff can guide you toward GF-friendly choices, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The moody basement dining room and the secluded backyard patio create an intimate, atmospheric setting that works especially well for a relaxed, slightly adventurous first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible but risky during peak hours. Your best chance is early evenings on weekdays or late seatings after 9pm. Patio seats usually book out well in advance.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The space is small, moody, and better suited for adults. Older kids or teens familiar with Thai flavors may enjoy it, but there are no kid-specific menus or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Atmospheric date nights, beautifully plated homestyle Thai dishes, and a hidden-gem patio experience that feels more intimate than larger, louder Thai spots in the area.
Skip if: You want quick service, large-group seating, mild spice levels, or a budget-friendly meal. Consider other LES Thai options if you prefer brighter, casual dining rooms or extremely customizable menus.