Tha Phraya

- 1553 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028

For New Yorkers who appreciate a genuine and sophisticated journey through Thai gastronomy, Tha Phraya on the Upper East Side delivers an experience that is anything but typical. Pronounced “Tah Pra-Yaa,” the restaurant is named after the piers on the iconic Chao Phraya River, and its chic, stylish interior—sometimes noted for its red lamps and illuminated cityscape—is designed to evoke the energy and culinary diversity of Bangkok. This establishment has quickly become a standout, earning the prestigious MICHELIN Guide's Bib Gourmand designation for its good quality and good value cooking.

Tha Phraya is co-owned by Phuket-born Manna Che, whose vision was to bring a new, ambitious version of Thai food to Manhattan, moving beyond the few staple dishes that often define Thai cuisine in the West. The menu is a vibrant mosaic of traditional, homestyle recipes and street food favorites sourced from various regions of Thailand, all prepared with high-quality ingredients and a focus on authentic, robust flavors. Diners consistently praise the food for being "so flavorful and honestly memorable," a testament to the chef's commitment to culinary excellence.

The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and distinctly trendy, offering a sleek dining experience that many compare to downtown energy but situated conveniently uptown. It is a perfect setting for various occasions, being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, with a vibrant energy that also appeals to groups and tourists. Patrons are advised to plan their visit, as the restaurant is very busy, especially during dinner, and dining time may be limited to 90 minutes during peak hours to accommodate demand.

Tha Phraya is ideally located in a bustling, high-traffic area of Manhattan's Upper East Side, making it a culinary destination for residents and visitors alike. It sits near the 81st Street cross-street, easily accessible via local transportation options.

Address: 1553 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA

The restaurant has taken steps to ensure accessibility for all guests, offering:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible seating

For those driving in the city, the Upper East Side location provides a mix of parking options, including Free street parking and Paid street parking. For convenience, the venue also facilitates modern payment methods, accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Tha Phraya ensures a high-quality experience whether you choose to dine in or enjoy their food from home. The range of services is comprehensive and tailored to a demanding clientele:

• Dine-in: Offering seating and full table service in a casual, cozy, and trendy setting. Dinner reservations are recommended, especially for groups larger than four.
• Delivery & Takeout: Comprehensive off-premise dining options, including traditional Delivery, Takeout, and No-contact delivery for health-conscious patrons.
• Curbside pickup: A convenient service allowing customers to collect their orders quickly and easily.
• Catering: Available for events, bringing the sophisticated, authentic Thai flavors to your gathering.
• Dining Options: Serves Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, with options catering to Solo dining and Groups.
• Happy Hour: Features a dedicated Happy hour drinks menu, perfect for an early evening stop.
• Family and Pet Friendly: Offers High chairs for children and a dedicated Kids' menu. Dogs are allowed outside for patrons dining al fresco.

The menu at Tha Phraya is where its true distinction lies, blending classic Thai comfort food with rare, intense, and regional specialty dishes. The offerings are flavorful and honest, with options ranging from healthy to indulgent, all while incorporating the five essential Thai flavors—salty, sour, sweet, spicy, and bitter.

The highlights include:

• Signature Entrees: Explore unique dishes like Paloh Hang (GF), a caramelized pork belly & egg stewed overnight with homemade aromatic Thai herbs—a dish customers describe as tender and sweet. The Crab Fried Rice LAVA, featuring sweet jumbo crabmeat and topped with a lava crabmeat omelet, is a customer favorite.
• Regional Specialties: Savor the famous Northern Thai curry, Chicken Khao Soi, or the intensely flavored Southern dishes like Kang Pu (Jumbo lump crab in Phuket-style coconut curry with vermicelli noodles) and Koong Gaew (GF) (a marinated raw shrimp dish praised for its fiery garlic chili flavor). The Sai-Ua Spring Rolls offer a twist on Chiang Mai sausage.
• Unique Starters and Spicy Yum: Appetizers stand out, such as the homemade, juicy, and crispy Tod Mun Goong (shrimp cakes with ground pork) and the traditional Thai salad Yum Som-O (GF) (pomelo salad). For the adventurous, Pu Dong*** (ปูดอง)(GF) features marinated raw blue crab with spicy lime dressing.
• Noodle and Wok Variety: Beyond the standard Pad Thai and Pad See-Iw, try the Zabb Hang, a dry rice noodle dish with homemade brown sauce, sliced pork, and meatball that one reviewer preferred over Pad Thai for its enjoyment. Also featured is the smoky Stewed Beef Noodle in herbal beef broth.
• Beverage and Bar Offerings: The bar is fully equipped, offering Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine, complemented by Thai classics like Thai Tea and Thai Coffee. Specialty cocktails, sometimes named after Thai temple games, are worth sampling.

For reservations, takeout, or delivery, you can reach Tha Phraya using the following contact details:

Address: 1553 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA

Phone: (646) 564-1456 or +1 646-564-1456

Choosing Tha Phraya means opting for a Thai dining experience that transcends the ordinary. It is an ideal spot for the discerning New Yorker—and especially for those on the Upper East Side—looking for genuine, regional Thai flavors that are not typically found in neighborhood spots. The restaurant's recognition with the Michelin Bib Gourmand stamp of approval confirms its status as a high-quality establishment offering great value.

The menu provides a refreshing depth, highlighted by signature dishes that are both comforting and adventurous, such as the Paloh Hang and the intensely savory raw crab preparations. The combination of a trendy, inviting atmosphere, professional and prompt service (including staff who attentively refill water without asking), and an emphasis on authentic, high-quality ingredients makes every visit a memorable culinary discovery. If you seek authenticity, an elevated setting, and a break from the expected, Tha Phraya is a must-visit destination in Manhattan.

Tha Phraya

1553 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA