KAM RAI THAI Introduce
For discerning New York food enthusiasts seeking genuine, complex, and deeply flavorful Thai cuisine, the search often leads to a standout concept within the vibrant heart of Manhattan. KAM RAI THAI, established by the highly-regarded Chef Dhanapol “Oak” Marprasert, is not just another Thai restaurant; it is a culinary journey across Thailand's four distinct regions, presented with a masterful blend of tradition and modern innovation. Its presence in Manhattan, specifically at the exciting Time Out Market, brings award-winning flavors and street-food classics to a conveniently central location for every busy New Yorker.
The ethos of KAM RAI THAI centers on the belief that Thai food is a cultural process, with the menu designed to tell the delicious stories of different regional cooking styles. This is a crucial distinction in the city's saturated dining landscape. While many establishments offer Americanized versions, KAM RAI THAI is celebrated for maintaining the bold, authentic balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes that characterize true Thai cooking. From the rich, northern Thai curries to the fiery street stir-fries, the variety ensures a discovery with every visit. Local patrons have quickly recognized the dedication to quality and flavor, evidenced by the rave reviews. One highly satisfied customer noted that the experience features “such nice folks running the place,” underscoring the friendly, professional service that complements the exceptional food quality. For those in the New York area craving authenticity without the need for an expensive, time-consuming journey, KAM RAI THAI represents a must-try destination, perfectly fusing high culinary standards with accessibility.
KAM RAI THAI is strategically located at 124 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003, USA. This address situates the concept within the prestigious Time Out Market in Union Square, one of Manhattan's most dynamic and transportation-rich neighborhoods. The location's primary advantage is its unparalleled accessibility, lying at the nexus of several major subway lines, making it easily reachable from nearly every corner of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. For the New York professional, student, or resident, this means a reliable, quick, and high-quality meal is available right where they need it—often during a lunch break, after work, or before catching transit home.
The context of being inside the Time Out Market is integral to the dining experience. It provides a vibrant, communal, and energetic atmosphere, capitalizing on the open nature of the food hall concept. The environment is casual and welcoming, designed for the fast-paced nature of the city. While it benefits from the hustle of Union Square, the stall itself is a hub for high-quality preparation and efficient service. Patrons can easily place an order, grab a seat in the market's communal dining areas, and enjoy their meal immediately, making it a highly practical choice compared to traditional sit-down restaurants that might require reservations or longer wait times. The inherent accessibility and efficient model of the market location cater directly to the demanding schedule of the local populace, turning a quick stop into a memorable culinary moment.
KAM RAI THAI at the Union Square Time Out Market operates under a modern, flexible service model perfectly adapted to the demands of the New York City environment. These options ensure maximum convenience for every potential diner:
- Counter Service (Dine-in): As part of the food hall, service is streamlined through a counter setup. Customers order directly, offering the efficiency of a quick transaction while still having the benefit of the market’s communal seating areas for an immediate, casual dining experience.
- Delivery: Essential for a Manhattan location, the restaurant offers comprehensive delivery services through various popular platforms. This allows residents and office workers across the surrounding neighborhoods to enjoy the award-winning Thai cuisine without leaving their homes or desks.
- Takeout/Pickup: Given the fast-paced nature of its Union Square setting, quick and easy pickup is a primary service. This is ideal for commuters passing through the busy transit hub who need a satisfying meal to go.
- Lunch and Dinner Service: The stall focuses on continuous, reliable service throughout the day, catering heavily to the demanding lunch crowd and serving high-quality options well into the evening for dinner.
This combination of services, from swift counter operations to robust delivery, positions KAM RAI THAI as a reliable provider of premium Thai food, whether the user seeks a quick bite or a full, flavorful meal at home.
What distinguishes KAM RAI THAI is its deep dive into regional Thai specialties and the caliber of its cuisine, spearheaded by a celebrated chef. The stall acts as a showcase for elevated, authentic Thai cooking that resonates strongly with a sophisticated New York palate:
- Award-Winning Chef's Concept: The food is driven by Chef Dhanapol “Oak” Marprasert, known for blending traditional street food techniques with contemporary interpretations. His expertise ensures every dish maintains authentic flavor profiles and the highest quality.
- Focus on Regional Thai Dishes: The menu highlights dishes from the four main regions of Thailand, such as the creamy, comforting Khao Soi (Northern Thai curry noodle soup) and the crispy, flavorful Hat Yai Fried Chicken (a Southern Thai street food favorite).
- Pad See Ew Excellence: As specifically noted in customer feedback, the Pad See Ew is widely considered "incredible." This staple noodle dish showcases the chef's ability to perfectly balance smoky ‘wok hei’ flavor with fresh ingredients, making it a must-try.
- Convenient Food Hall Experience: Being inside the Time Out Market provides a low-commitment, high-reward dining scenario, perfect for solo diners, groups meeting quickly, or anyone wanting flexibility and speed.
- High-Quality Noodle and Rice Dishes: Beyond the Pad See Ew, other signature dishes like Crab Meat Fried Rice and various versions of Pad Thai offer substantial, satisfying, and high-quality meals.
- Friendly and Professional Staff: The repeated mentions of the "nice folks running the place" attest to the excellent, welcoming customer service, making the overall experience pleasant and highly recommendable.
The fusion of authentic regional recipes with the efficient, approachable market environment makes KAM RAI THAI a genuinely compelling dining choice that goes beyond the standard fare found in many city establishments.
To plan your visit to this acclaimed Thai food destination in Manhattan, please use the following contact information:
- Address: 124 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003, USA (Inside Time Out Market Union Square)
- Phone: (917) 810-4855
We recommend checking the market’s operating hours before a late visit, as market hours can sometimes differ from standalone restaurants. For delivery orders, utilize popular third-party apps for the fastest service directly to your home or office in the New York area.
For any New Yorker navigating the overwhelming number of dining choices, the value proposition of KAM RAI THAI is strikingly clear: it offers authentic, regional Thai cuisine, prepared by a recognized, award-winning chef, in one of the most convenient locations in the city. What is worth choosing, fundamentally, is the assurance of quality and authenticity that elevates it above standard takeout fare. Customers are not just paying for a meal; they are investing in a true taste of Thailand.
The singular reason to choose KAM RAI THAI is the combination of its acclaimed dishes—like the "incredible" Pad See Ew—with the practical accessibility of the Time Out Market setting. When you need a quick, highly satisfying, and authentic meal near Union Square, whether it’s the rich, coconut-curry notes of the Khao Soi or the comforting chew of the Pad See Ew noodles, this venue delivers a consistently superior experience. Furthermore, the positive feedback regarding the staff highlights that the service matches the high quality of the cuisine. It represents the best of the New York food scene: world-class flavors made accessible and convenient, proving why this spot is a “must try” for every local resident looking for the real deal in Thai food.
KAM RAI THAI Photos




KAM RAI THAI Location
KAM RAI THAI Reviews
Pad See Ew was incredible! Such nice folks running the place too, it’s a must try at Time Out Market.
October 12 · Kal Khent
More Thai Food Near Me
Soothr4.0 (4411 reviews)204 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Spice Thai4.0 (1232 reviews)39 E 13th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Thai Delight4.0 (132 reviews)175 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003, USA
Pranakhon4.0 (2620 reviews)88 University Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA
Klong4.0 (817 reviews)7 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, USA
Little Mint3.0 (127 reviews)74 5th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA
Thai Noodle House2.0 (34 reviews)74 5th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA
Grandpa Thai4.0 (564 reviews)51 E 8th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Narkara4.0 (127 reviews)5 E 17th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Nemesis4.0 (581 reviews)30 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Kati Thai Cuisine4.0 (989 reviews)347 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Thai Terminal4.0 (304 reviews)349 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites
Pad Thai Kitchen4.0 (185 reviews)
Tam Sang Thai Kitchen4.0 (206 reviews)
Thai Chili Food Truck4.0 (25 reviews)
Thai Tonight4.0 (18 reviews)
Bangkok Spice4.0 (332 reviews)
Green Basil Thai Kitchen4.0 (92 reviews)Trending Thai Food Blogs Posts
How to Make Thai Food Work for a Tight Weeknight Schedule
The Classic Thai Dish You’ve Probably Never Heard Of (But Should)
Best Thai Meat Recipes for Meat Lovers Seeking Something New
How to Make Thai Food That’s Great for Meal Prepping
Thai Food Ingredient Spotlight: Kaffir Lime Leaves & Their Unique Aroma
Thai Food for the Fall Season: Warm Curries & Comfort Dishes
