Khao Nom - ร้านข้าวหนม

- 42-06 77th St, Elmhurst, NY 11373

For New Yorkers seeking a genuine and comprehensive taste of Thailand that goes far beyond the usual Pad Thai and Green Curry, Khao Nom - ร้านข้าวหนม in Elmhurst, Queens, is an absolute culinary destination. Located in the heart of the city’s vibrant "Thaitown," this restaurant is lauded by local diners as a hidden gem, offering a rare and delightful combination of authentic Thai street food favorites and an unparalleled selection of traditional Thai desserts, or Khanom Thai.

Khao Nom has established itself as a must-visit spot for those who appreciate home-style, traditional Thai flavors. Customers consistently praise the menu for transporting them back to the bustling street-side eateries of Thailand. It's an experience that feels both cozy and authentic, with a dedicated staff and a menu that is broad enough to satisfy cravings for savory, spicy, and sweet dishes alike. Whether you're craving a fiery basil stir-fry or a delicate coconut custard, this place offers a true taste of Thai culinary heritage right here in New York.

The atmosphere is intentionally welcoming, blending a casual, trendy, and cozy setting that is perfect for solo dining, a family meal, or a group outing. With a strong reputation for offering a complete range of authentic options at affordable prices, Khao Nom is a vital part of the New York Thai food community.

Khao Nom is strategically positioned in the Elmhurst neighborhood of Queens, often referred to as NYC's Thaitown, which is renowned for its concentration of authentic Southeast Asian restaurants and markets. The restaurant's address is 42-06 77th St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA. This area is a thriving hub for authentic global cuisine and is easily reachable for New York City residents.

The location is highly accessible via public transportation, which is essential for New Yorkers traveling from other boroughs. The restaurant is located near major transit options, ensuring a straightforward journey for lunch, dinner, or just a quick dessert run. In terms of physical accessibility, the restaurant offers important features for all patrons:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible seating

The immediate neighborhood is lively and food-focused, making a trip to Khao Nom a great anchor for exploring the unique cultural and culinary offerings of Elmhurst.

Khao Nom provides a full spectrum of dining services and options to accommodate a wide variety of customer needs, from a leisurely meal to a quick bite. Their commitment to convenience and hospitality is evident in their service model:

• Dine-in: Enjoy table service in the casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere.
• Outdoor Seating: Available for those who prefer to dine al fresco.
• Takeout: Quick and easy pickup is available for all menu items.
• Delivery: Offering convenience for residents in the surrounding New York area.
• Reservations Accepted: Guests can plan ahead, especially for groups or busy dining hours.
• Catering: Available for special events, bringing authentic Thai flavors to your gathering.
• Family-Friendly: The venue is good for kids and provides high chairs.
• Payment Options: Accepts credit cards and debit cards for easy transactions.

They are popular for both lunch and dinner services, accommodating solo diners, groups, and families throughout the day. The restaurant maintains standard amenities including a restroom for guest comfort.

The standout reputation of Khao Nom is built on several key features that truly distinguish it within the crowded NYC Thai food landscape:

• Extensive Traditional Thai Dessert Menu: This is arguably the restaurant's top highlight. Khao Nom is known as one of the only places in NYC to get such a wide variety of traditional Thai desserts (Khanom Thai), often rotating the selection and featuring hard-to-find treats like pandan pancake rolls, Tub Tim Krob, and authentic coconut-based sweets.
• Authentic Street Food Flavors: The savory menu features classic dishes found at local Thai street-side eateries, including KAO KA POW MOO GROB (Crispy Pork Basil Over Rice) and KAO MOO DANG (Red BBQ Pork with Rice). Customers describe the food, such as the stir-fried minced pork with basil, as "packed with flavor, cooked perfectly, and reminded me of the authentic tastes you’d find in Thailand."
• Specialty Noodles and Rice Dishes: The menu offers high-demand items like KHAO SOI (Curry Chicken Noodle), KUAY TIEW TOM YUM (Spicy and Sour Noodle Soup), and various specialized rice dishes, including KAO MUN GAI (Steamed Chicken Over Ginger Rice).
• Crispy Pork Focus: Dishes featuring crispy pork (Moo Grob) like the KAO KA NAH MOO GROB (Chinese Broccoli & Crispy Pork Over Rice) are highlighted by reviewers as being expertly prepared.
• Appetizer Mastery: The appetizers are notable and include rarely-seen items like TOD MUN GOON (Deep-Fried Shrimp Cakes), HOY JOR (Deep-Fried Crab Meat Roll), and Hoy Tod (Mussel Pancakes). The shrimp cakes are noted for being "golden, juicy inside," and served with a tasty, complementary dipping sauce.
• Diverse Offerings: The restaurant accommodates various dietary needs by providing comfort food, quick bites, Healthy options, and a selection of Vegetarian options.

Khao Nom is worth choosing because it provides an unparalleled level of Thai authenticity in New York. While most Thai establishments focus on popular Americanized dishes, Khao Nom delves deep into the cuisine, offering beloved street food classics and, most importantly, a dedicated section for traditional Thai desserts that is unmatched. A visit here is not just a meal; it is a true cultural experience, particularly for those passionate about Southeast Asian sweets.

If you are a New Yorker who frequently visits Thaitown or are simply in search of genuine, home-style Thai cooking, the balance of high-quality savory items and incredible desserts makes this place essential. Start with a spicy and savory entree—perhaps the highly recommended KAO KA POW MOO SUB (Ground Pork Basil Over Rice), noted for its perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors and crispy-edged fried egg—and finish with a traditional coconut or pandan-based dessert from their daily rotating case. The combination of friendly, attentive staff and affordable prices for such authentic food solidifies Khao Nom’s reputation as a top-tier Thai dining spot in Queens, making it worth the trip from any borough.

For reservations, inquiries, or to place a takeout or delivery order, please use the following contact details. Khao Nom is open daily for your convenience.

Address: 42-06 77th St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA

Phone: (929) 208-0108 (Mobile Phone: +1 929-208-0108)

Standard Operating Hours: The restaurant is generally open seven days a week from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though it is always advisable to call ahead for the most current holiday or seasonal hours.

Khao Nom - ร้านข้าวหนม

42-06 77th St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA