The best 12 Pad Thai in New York City
Are you a fan of Pad Thai and find yourself in NYC? Look no further! This bustling city is home to a plethora of Thai restaurants, each with their own unique take on the famous Pad Thai. From traditional street food-style to gourmet twists, Pad Thai in NYC offers something for every palate. Join us as we explore the best spots to savor this delectable dish in the Big Apple.
1. Pure Thai Cookhouse
Authentic Thai shophouse experience in Hell's Kitchen.

The Pad Thai served at this establishment is truly a delight. The noodles are cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of bite to them. The flavors are well balanced and true to the traditional Thai dish, making for a truly authentic experience. It is highly recommended for any Pad Thai lover.
This version of Pad Thai is a standout. The balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors is expertly executed, resulting in a truly satisfying meal. Fresh shrimp add a wonderful texture and taste to the dish, elevating it to a must-try for any Thai cuisine enthusiast. The Pad Thai here is sure to leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
2. Wayla
Bright and fresh homestyle Thai food inspired by Bangkok markets.

Wayla's Pad Thai stands out as a truly exceptional dish. It is a must-try for any Pad Thai enthusiast seeking a genuinely authentic and delicious experience. The portion size is generously satisfying, ensuring that each bite is filled with the rich and tantalizing flavors of this beloved Thai dish.
The freshness of the ingredients used in Wayla's Pad Thai is evident in every bite. From the perfectly cooked noodles to the succulent shrimp, each component adds to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. The taste is beautifully balanced, with the right combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Overall, Wayla's Pad Thai is a standout dish that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any food lover seeking an authentic and delicious Thai dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegan Options
3. Somtum Der
Bringing the taste of Isan to New York City

The Pad Thai offered by this establishment is a must-try for any lover of Thai cuisine. It is a dish that successfully balances the flavors of sweet and savory, with a hint of tanginess that is characteristic of traditional Pad Thai. The noodles are cooked to perfection, retaining a satisfying bite while being generously coated with the rich and flavorful sauce.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals, the spicy crab pad thai is a standout option. The generous portion of crab adds a sweet and succulent touch to the dish, while the spice level provides a satisfying kick. Despite the spiciness, the flavors of the other ingredients are still discernible, resulting in a delicious and well-rounded dish. However, it is important to note that the spice level is not for the faint of heart, so those who are sensitive to spicy food may want to proceed with caution.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
4. Thai Diner
A modern twist on traditional Thai flavors

The restaurant is a popular destination, offering delicious food but requiring patience as there is often a wait. Upon arrival, customers may find themselves waiting for up to 30 minutes, even at relatively early hours. The decor is warm and inviting, with beautiful lanterns illuminating the interior.
The menu features a variety of dishes, including crab fried rice, pad see ew with beef, and banana pudding. The roti is a standout dish, and the mango chiffon dessert, while visually appealing, was a bit dry. For beverages, the butter rum and guava cocktails were well-received, while the egg white fiz cocktail was found to be lacking in flavor. Overall, the dining experience is enjoyable, but it's important to be prepared for a potential wait.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
5. Ugly Baby
Spicy Thai dishes that pack a punch

Ugly Baby's Pad Thai is a standout dish that combines sweet, sour, and spicy flavors to create a perfectly balanced meal. The portion size is generous, making it a great value for your money.
If you're a fan of Pad Thai, Ugly Baby's version is not to be missed. The flavors are bold and authentic, with a spice level that is just right. It's easily one of the best Pad Thai dishes available in NYC.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
6. Thai Villa
A taste of Thailand in the heart of New York City

The Pad Thai and green curry at this restaurant are exceptional dishes that truly impress. The Pad Thai stands out with its perfect balance of flavors, showcasing the tangy, sweet, and spicy notes that are characteristic of traditional Thai cuisine. The noodles are cooked to perfection, retaining a satisfying bite while absorbing the rich and savory sauce. The green curry is equally delightful, with a vibrant green color and aromatic scent that entice the senses. The tender chunks of chicken, bathed in the creamy cocenanty sauce, burst with flavor and provide a satisfying and delicious meal.
Authenticity is at the heart of these dishes, transporting diners straight to the streets of Thailand. Every bite of the Pad Thai is a reminder of the hawker stalls of Bangkok, where cooks have honed their craft for generations. Meanwhile, the green curry brings to mind the lush landscapes and coconut plantations of the southern Thai regions. The freshness and authenticity of the ingredients used in these dishes are unparalleled, making them an absolute must-try for Thai cuisine enthusiasts. The exceptional quality of the Pad Thai and green curry make this restaurant a standout destination that leaves a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
7. Thailicious
Serving family recipes with love and soul since 2016

Prepare to be wowed by the exceptional Shrimp Pad Thai that keeps customers coming back for more. This dish is a standout among the restaurant's offerings, thanks to its perfect balance of flavors and textures.
From the tender shrimp to the delicate noodles, every ingredient is carefully selected and expertly cooked. The Pad Thai is simultaneously sweet and savory, with a hint of tanginess and spice that makes it truly unforgettable. Presentation is also a highlight, with the vibrant colors of the dish making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you're a fan of Thai cuisine or just looking to try something new, the Shrimp Pad Thai is sure to leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
8. Ayada
A taste of Thailand in the heart of Chelsea Market.

The shrimp Pad Thai served in this establishment is truly a culinary delight. Every ingredient used in the dish is consistently fresh, resulting in a vibrant and satisfying taste with every bite.
For those who are fans of Pad Thai or looking to try a high-quality version of the dish, this restaurant should be at the top of their list. The balance of flavors is expertly executed, and the portion sizes are generous, making for a thoroughly enjoyable meal that is sure to leave a lasting positive impression. A definite must-try for anyone looking for an authentic Thai food experience. Highly recommended!
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
9. SriPraPhai
A true taste of Thailand in New York City

The Pad Thai served at this establishment is a true standout. Its blend of flavors is perfectly balanced, with each element - tangy, sweet, and savory - shining through in every bite. The spice level is just right, adding a kick that complements the other flavors without overwhelming them.
One cannot go wrong with the Pad Thai at this NYC establishment. The noodles are cooked to perfection, with a satisfying bite that holds up to the delicious sauce. Each ingredient is fresh and vibrant, contributing to a dish that is more than the sum of its parts. Whether you are a Pad Thai aficionado or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
10. THEP Thai Restaurant
Ensuring a supreme dining experience with authentic Thai flavors.

The Pad Thai served at this establishment is truly exceptional. It stands out from other versions of the popular dish, offering a generous portion that is sure to satisfy. The flavors are perfectly balanced, with a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and umami notes that dance on the taste buds. This Pad Thai is not just a meal, but a culinary experience.
For those looking to try something new or seeking a reliable recommendation, this restaurant's Pad Thai is an excellent choice. The vibrant colors and artful arrangement of the noodles create an aesthetically pleasing presentation that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Those who have had the pleasure of trying this Pad Thai are sure to find themselves yearning for more. It is a dish that is worthy of repeated enjoyment, and a testament to the quality of the cuisine offered at this establishment.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
11. Wondee Siam
Delicious Thai dishes in the heart of Hell's Kitchen

Nestled in the heart of the city, this unassuming Thai restaurant might not have a memorable atmosphere, but it certainly makes up for it with its delicious chicken pad Thai. During our visit to see Funny Girl on Broadway in September, we stumbled upon this hidden gem and were delighted with the meal. We returned again two months later and were not disappointed.
This establishment offers a wide variety of traditional and authentic Thai dishes, with some unique and hard-to-find options such as raw marinated shrimp and fried fish prepared in various ways. The flavors are bold, authentic, and truly transport you to the streets of Bangkok. The atmosphere may not be memorable, but the food certainly is.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
12. Soothr
Experience the warmth of Thai family recipes.

The reviewed establishment is a commendable choice for Thai cuisine. An order of Shrimp Pad Thai was placed, but regrettably, it experienced a significant delay of over an hour. Upon notifying the restaurant of this issue, they promptly prepared and delivered a replacement order, which was greatly appreciated.
Despite the delivery misstep, the food from this establishment consistently proves to be delightful. The Koong Karee dish, in particular, was noteworthy for its delicious execution, making it an ideal choice for fans of Thai curry dishes. In light of the exceptional food quality and swift response to the delivery issue, this establishment is highly recommended for Thai cuisine aficionados.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner