Thai town in New York City

If you are looking for a mini Thai Town in New York City, look no further than Elmhurst, Queens.

Elmhurst’s Thai Town is centered around Woodside Avenue and 77th Street in Queens. This area is also known as the Thai Town’s Restaurant Row. Here, you can find an array of authentic Thai restaurants that serve everything from classic dishes like pad Thai and green curry to more adventurous options like and spicy papaya salad.

One of the most popular spots in Thai Town is Zaab Zaab, an Isan (Northeastern Thai) that received a rave review from the New York Times. If you want Thai food like how it is served in Thailand, try Khao Kang right in the middle of Thai town at 76-20 Woodside Ave, Queens, NY 11373. The area also has a few Thai grocery stores that have authentic ingredients sent directly from Thailand just in case you would like bring the Thai experience to your own kitchen. My favorite Thai grocery store in New York is the second branch of the 3 Aunties Thai Market on 40-08 61st St, Queens, NY 11377.

Thai Town is not only a place to experience authentic Thai culture and cuisine, but it’s also a hub for community events and festivals. The neighborhood typically hosts a few Thai New Year events per year.

Aside from the Thai community, Elmhurst and Jackson Heights are also home to other immigrant groups, which adds to the cultural diversity of the area. This mix of cultures and cuisines makes Elmhurst a unique and exciting place to explore.

If you’re a foodie looking for an authentic culinary adventure, Elmhurst’s Thai Town is a must-visit destination. Come and experience the flavors, sights, and sounds of this vibrant community in the heart of Queens.

Picture from the street naming ceremony on Saturday, September 24, 2022.

Grill fish from Zaab Zaab.

Thai film at the New York Asian Film Festival 2022

May 2023 update: Fast and Feel Love is now on Netflix US.

I have been a fan of Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit, a Thai director for awhile now. In particular, I appreciate his dark humor and how his films make me ponder about life. His best works include Heart Attack (2015) and Happy Old Year (2019). His films and characters just linger, long after the final credit.

The good news is his latest film Fast and Feel Love will be showing at Lincoln Center on July 15, 2022 as a part of the New York Asian Film Festival. This is how to get a ticket: LINK to Lincoln Center Calendar.

I can’t wait.