Best of 14 thai restaurants in Elmhurst NYC
Thai restaurants in Elmhurst, NYC, are a must-visit for food lovers seeking authentic and diverse Thai cuisine. This Queens neighborhood is a haven for foodies, offering a wide range of Thai dishes that cater to all tastes and preferences. From spicy curries to refreshing salads, these Thai restaurants showcase the best of Thai culinary traditions, all while providing a unique and vibrant dining experience. Whether you're a seasoned Thai food fan or a newcomer to the cuisine, visiting thai restaurants in Elmhurst, NYC, is sure to be a memorable culinary adventure.
1. Ayada
A family-owned gem serving traditional Thai dishes since 2008

Ayada Thai, located in Elmhurst, is a highly-regarded establishment known for its authentic and delicious Thai cuisine. The menu offers a vast array of dishes that cater to all palates, but some standout options include the Drunken Noodles and Papaya Salad, both of which are must-try dishes for any diner seeking a true Thai culinary experience.
Furthermore, Ayada Thai has an excellent reputation for its reliable delivery service, with food arriving on time and in pristine condition. If you're ordering in, the BBQ Pork Tenders and Tom Yum Soup are sure to satisfy your appetite for flavorful and exotic fare. Overall, Ayada Thai consistently delivers on its promise of excellence, making it a go-to spot for Thai food enthusiasts.
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- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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2. Saranrom Thai in Elmhurst
A must-visit for amazing Thai food and top-notch service

Saranrom Thai is a standout Thai restaurant in New York City, offering delicious and affordable meals in a cozy and homey atmosphere. The portions here are generous, providing great value for the money. The service is also commendable, with staff who are friendly, attentive, and dedicated to ensuring guests have a pleasant dining experience.
If you're looking for a taste of Thailand in the heart of NYC, Saranrom Thai is an excellent choice. Popular dishes include the crispy pork with watercress, as well as their noodles, Tom yum soup, and seafood entrees. The food is always fresh, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The service here is exceptional, with a friendly server named Jacob who always greets guests with a warm smile. Overall, Saranrom Thai is an excellent spot for anyone looking for delicious Thai food in a welcoming and comfortable environment.
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- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
3. Spicy Shallot
A cornerstone of the Elmhurst/Jackson Heights neighborhood

Spicy Shallot, a Thai restaurant located in Queens, offers an authentic and delightful Thai dining experience. The flavors are reminiscent of those found in Thailand, making it the best Thai food in the area. Additionally, the restaurant features a sushi bar that serves fresh and delicious sushi.
Individuals who appreciate authentic Thai cuisine will find Spicy Shallot to be an excellent choice. The pad kraw prow dish, the reviewer's standard order, was perfectly prepared and seasoned to delight the taste buds. The restaurant's ambiance is pleasant, and the service is top-notch, making it an ideal spot for Thai food lovers.
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- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. Hug Esan
Experience Northeastern Thai flavors in Queens

Hug Esan has received a high rating of 4.6, based on 184 reviews, indicating a positive dining experience for many. The restaurant specializes in authentic Thai Esan cuisine, a popular regional style known for its spicy and flavorful dishes. Customers can enjoy their meals in the restaurant, take them to go, or have food delivered to their location with no-contact options available.
The restaurant may only have four tables, but it offers a big experience in authentic Thai food. The menu includes delicious options such as Nam Khao Todd, a crispy rice salad with sour pork and peanuts, spicy papaya salad, chicken liver satay, and grilled squid. Customers rave about the friendly and attentive service, with staff taking the time to explain each dish and making sure water glasses are always full. Despite its small size, Hug Esan provides an epic culinary journey transporting guests to the streets of Thailand with every bite.
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- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
5. Jai sang ma in Elmhurst

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- Mexican Cuisine
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- Dinner
6. Chao Thai
A hidden gem for spicy Thai food lovers

Chao Thai, a restaurant located in Queens, offers a wide variety of delicious and authentic Thai dishes at reasonable prices. This establishment is particularly well-known for its spicy options, such as som tum and Tom yum.
A recent return visit to Chao Thai confirmed that it remains one of the best Thai restaurants in NYC. The Thai salads are a must-try, with the papaya salad with fried catfish being a standout favorite. The sweet sausage salad is also excellent. Additionally, the Tom Yum coconut soup is highly recommended.
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- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
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7. Khao Kang in Elmhurst
A must-visit for lovers of traditional Thai flavors

Khao Kang, a recent entrant in the sphere of Thai food, offers an array of dishes that are both delicious and comforting. Its name, which translates to "rice and curry/stew/soup," is a testament to the restaurant's dedication to providing authentic Thai cuisine. The garlic pork, for instance, boasts of rich and savory flavors that are sure to delight, while the spicy ground pork provides a delightful kick of heat.
Beyond its delectable offerings, Khao Kang also boasts of an inviting and welcoming ambiance that complements the dining experience. With a focus on authenticity, the menu features a selection of dishes that showcase the very best of Thai culinary traditions. From the robust and aromatic curries to the tender and succulent stews, each plate at Khao Kang is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to providing a true taste of Thailand.
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- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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8. Zaab Zaab
A taste of Northeastern Thailand in Queens

Nam tok, larb ped udon, and mieng pla pow are standout dishes at Zaab Zaab, offering delicious and bold Thai flavors. The grilled fish with lettuce wraps, also known as nam tok, is a must-try - it's both delicious and unique, although it may be too spicy for some.
Zaab Zaab's Thai food is known for its higher spice profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Among the most delicious offerings are the noodle dishes and the minced duck, or larb ped. To complement the spicy dishes, Zaab Zaab offers a variety of beverages, including Hazy IPA, Thai iced tea, and coffee, ensuring that every customer can find the perfect drink to cool down and cleanse their palate.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
9. Kin Sen กินเส้น
A gem for authentic Thai cuisine in NYC

Nestled in Elmhurst, Kin Sen stands out as a go-to Thai restaurant for many. The food served is consistently delicious, leaving diners fully satisfied and planning their next visit. The menu includes an array of enticing desserts that are just as delightful as the main dishes.
For those seeking authentic Thai cuisine in NYC, Kin Sen is a hidden gem worth discovering. A recent lunch on a rainy Wednesday showcased the restaurant's exceptional flavors, further solidifying its reputation for quality Thai food.
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- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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10. Khao Nom
Most authentic Thai food in Queens

Khao Nom offers an extensive menu of authentic Thai dishes, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The restaurant's Pad Kra Pao Moo, also known as spicy basil stir-fry with pork, has received rave reviews from customers, with many praising its bold flavors and tender meat. The dish features minced pork stir-fried with holy basil, garlic, chilies, and soy sauce, served over steamed rice. It packs a spicy punch that is both delicious and satisfying.
Beyond the Pad Kra Pao Moo, Khao Nom's menu boasts an impressive selection of Thai dishes, from classic curries to stir-fries and noodles. The restaurant is also famous for its pandan desserts, which use the fragrant leaves of the pandan plant to create sweet treats with a unique flavor profile. The restaurant's charming ambiance and friendly service make it an ideal spot for a casual dinner or a special occasion. Overall, Khao Nom is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Thai cuisine in NYC.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Dinner
11. Arunee
A hidden gem for authentic Thai cuisine in Queens

Thai cuisine enthusiasts will be delighted with this restaurant, known for its delicious food and reasonable prices. One standout dish is the Thai fried rice, which pairs well with the crispy and flavorful spring rolls. The care put into preparing each meal adds to the overall positive dining experience.
Recently, I had the pleasure of dining at a local Thai restaurant, invited by some friends who are regular customers there. I can attest to the high-quality food, which we savored from start to finish, enjoying the appetizer sampler and continuing through the main course to the delectable fried banana dessert. The exceptional service further elevated our dining experience, making it well worth a return visit.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
12. Boon Chu 83-18 Broadway
Family-run, home-cooked Thai favorites

This Thai restaurant is easy to overlook due to its modest size, but it is definitely worth a visit. In fact, one might even consider it a hidden gem among the many Thai restaurants in the area. The food is consistently excellent and reasonably priced, making it a popular choice among locals who frequent the establishment on a weekly basis.
The restaurant's small size adds to its charm, with a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere that is perfect for a casual meal. Despite its modest appearance, the flavors of the Thai dishes served here are anything but small. The food is packed with bold, authentic flavors that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. Whether you're a fan of fiery curries or prefer milder dishes, there's something for everyone on the menu. With its affordable prices and delicious food, this Thai restaurant is a great choice for anyone looking for a satisfying and unforgettable meal.
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- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Vegetarian Options
13. Pata Paplean
Taste of Thailand in Queens

The savory broth of the noodle dish instantly transports diners to the bustling streets of Thailand. Tomyum noodle soup, in particular, is a standout favorite among customers. Its rich and aromatic flavors are carefully crafted to bring a true taste of Thailand to the table.
A team of friends, who originally met while working at a Thai restaurant in Queens, have come together to create Pata Paplean. This restaurant is named for a department store in Bangkok, and it brings the vibrant flavors and welcoming spirit of Thailand to its customers. The founders' shared passion for Thai cuisine is evident in every dish, and their expertise is sure to transport diners to the heart of Thailand.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Thai Love You - New York

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- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots