Tong

- 321 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237

Located on the vibrant, art-filled streets of Bushwick, Brooklyn, Tong is more than just a Thai restaurant—it's a culinary journey into the heart of authentic Thai street food and regional specialties. The name "Tong" translates to "gold," a fitting description for the wealth of intense, authentic Thai flavors that await New Yorkers at this popular spot. Unlike many Thai-American establishments, Tong specializes in dishes you might not find elsewhere in the city, with a particular focus on 'Kub Klaem,' which are small, flavorful dishes meant to be shared and enjoyed with drinks.

This restaurant has quickly become a standout in the Bushwick dining scene, recognized for its commitment to true Thai culinary heritage, including spicy, bold flavors that are often a welcome challenge for even seasoned spice enthusiasts. From rich curries like Massaman Brisket and Beef Curry to unique noodle bowls such as Khao Soi and Pad Mhee Korat, Tong offers a diverse menu that caters to both adventurous palates and those seeking classic Thai comfort food, all served in a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. Patrons, including those with Thai roots, frequently praise the authenticity and freshness of the food, noting that a visit to Tong is absolutely worth the trip from any borough.

Tong is situated at 321 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA, placing it right in the artistic, industrial-chic neighborhood of Bushwick, near the border of Ridgewood. This area is highly walkable and is a cultural hub, making it a great destination for a night out that includes a delicious meal.

The restaurant offers excellent accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible restroom, and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests. For those traveling by car, parking options include both free street parking and paid street parking nearby. The location is also well-served by public transportation, being accessible via the L and M subway lines which have stops in the surrounding area, connecting Bushwick easily to Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn. The convenience of its location allows the restaurant to serve a wide radius with its delivery and takeout options.

Tong provides a wide range of services designed to accommodate various dining needs and preferences for the busy New York clientele.

• Full-Service Dining: Offering brunch, lunch, and dinner, with the convenience of accepting reservations to ensure a table in their highly sought-after space.
• Outdoor Dining: Patrons can enjoy their meal in the fresh air, with comfortable outdoor seating available. Dogs are also allowed outside, making it a perfect stop for pet owners.
• Comprehensive Takeout and Delivery: Services include curbside pickup, standard delivery, and no-contact delivery, making it easy to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine at home or work.
• Catering: Tong offers catering services, allowing customers to host events with a menu of unique and authentic Thai specialties.
• Bar and Beverage Program: A full bar onsite offers a complete selection of Alcohol, Beer, Hard liquor, Cocktails, and Wine, complemented by Happy hour drinks and a noteworthy 'Great tea selection.'
• Happy Hour: Includes specials for both Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food, perfect for after-work gatherings.
• Dietary Accommodation: The menu features numerous Healthy options, Quick bites, Small plates, and easily identifiable Vegetarian options.

Tong is celebrated for several unique features that distinguish it within the competitive New York City dining landscape, emphasizing authenticity, atmosphere, and service.

• Authentic and Unique Thai Dishes: The menu specializes in authentic regional Thai cooking, particularly 'Kub Klaem' (drinking snacks) and dishes inspired by Isaan, Thailand's northeastern region. Unique offerings include YUM NAEM, PORK JOWL, and GAI TOD (Thai Fried Chicken), all highly praised by customers for their authentic taste.
• Bold Spice Levels: The kitchen is famously known for not holding back on the heat, with numerous reviews and even the MICHELIN Guide noting the true Thai spice levels—a major draw for those who truly love intensely spicy food. Guests are often advised to answer truthfully about their spice preference.
• Signature Dishes: Must-try items include the unique MANGOSTEEN SALAD, the rich CRAB FRIED RICE (which patrons think about "frequently"), and the Northern Thai specialty KHAO SOI. The OCTOPUS and PORK JOWL are also frequently highlighted as show-stoppers.
• Trendy and Cozy Atmosphere: The restaurant offers a sleek, industrial-chic space with concrete floors and rustic metal walls, creating a Trendy yet Cozy ambiance. The presence of a beautifully decorated back room with low-hanging lanterns makes it perfect for impressive guest entertaining.
• Fast Service: Noted for its efficient and professional operation, Tong is highlighted for its "Fast service," ensuring a smooth dining experience even during busy times.
• Inclusivity: The establishment actively promotes an inclusive environment, being both LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, making it a welcoming place for all members of the community.

For making reservations, inquiring about catering, or placing a takeout order for delicious late-night food, Tong's staff can be reached using the following details.

Address: 321 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA

Phone: (718) 366-0586 / +1 718-366-0586

Note: Tong operates on a split schedule, typically opening for lunch (e.g., 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM) and reopening for dinner (e.g., 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM/11:00 PM). It is always best practice to check their current hours before visiting.

Tong stands out in the crowded New York food scene because it delivers an uncompromisingly authentic and regional Thai experience, perfectly packaged in the energetic, artsy vibe of Bushwick. For the New York local, choosing Tong is an opportunity to move beyond typical Pad Thai and explore the depths of true Thai flavor, particularly the intensely spicy and savory profiles of Isaan cuisine.

The emphasis on 'Kub Klaem'—small, shareable dishes—makes it the ideal venue for groups and friends looking for a fun, interactive dining experience complemented by a full bar offering, including signature Cocktails. The food is described as "absolutely worth the trip" and "incredible," with the flavors being both fresh and beautifully presented. A key differentiator is the culinary authenticity, vouched for by customers from Thailand who celebrate the dishes for being genuine and unique, such as the hard-to-find YUM MANGOSTEEN.

Furthermore, the dual appeal of the atmosphere—casual and cozy enough for solo dining yet trendy and lively for groups—ensures a great experience regardless of the occasion. From a quick, satisfying Lunch Special like the L-Kra Praw with Minced Chicken and Fried Egg over Rice, to a late-night feast with friends, Tong delivers fast service and high-quality food consistently. In a city where good Thai food is plentiful, Tong's specialization in authentic, bold flavors and its vibrant, welcoming atmosphere in a prime Brooklyn location solidify it as a must-visit gold standard for Thai cuisine in the New York region.

Tong

321 Starr St, Brooklyn, NY 11237, USA