TLDR
Authentic Bangkok-style steam-table curries and street food in Elmhurst. A beloved, reliable spot for high-quality, 'Thai spicy' quick eats.
Instagram Posts References
Khao Kang receives an enthusiastic mention with three chili emojis, and the statement 'literally feel like in Bangkok.' This strongly suggests an authentic and vibrant Thai culinary experience, likely featuring flavorful and potentially spicy dishes.
Khao Kang is a highly-rated Thai restaurant in Elmhurst, recognized as No. 20 on the New York Times Top 100. They specialize in dishes served over rice, with options for two or three entrees. The garlic black pepper pork was highlighted as a favorite, praised for its savory, peppery, and slightly sweet flavor profile.
Details
A go-to destination in Elmhurst for authentic Bangkok-style, steam-table Thai curries and stir-fries [1], [2]. Recognized for its quality, it was named to the New York Times Top 100 list of best restaurants [3]. While some patrons note a rise in prices over the years, the consensus remains that it offers reliable, delicious meals [4], [5].
Food Overview
Specializing in quick-serve, pre-prepared steam-table entrees, this establishment is frequently lauded for its 'Thai spicy' curries and authentic street food dishes [1], [2]. The Garlic Black Pepper Pork is a widely recommended standout for its perfect texture and caramelized sauce [3], [4].
Caveats
As a steam-table establishment, the menu is fixed daily and spice levels are pre-determined, meaning they cannot be adjusted for individual preferences [1]. Additionally, the restaurant closes at 7 PM, so it is best visited for lunch or an early dinner [2].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About KHAO KANG
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: I Made It Out To Elmhurst For Thai Saranrom Thai
"Recommended as a high-quality nearby alternative to Saranrom."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Favorite Thai Spot In Nyc For Price
"Acknowledges price increases but considers it a go-to spot where you still eat well."
PositiveFrom post: What Is Your Favorite Thai Spot In Nyc For Price
"Notes that the restaurant has become expensive over the years with no change in portion sizes."
NegativeFrom post: Best Thai Curry Youve Had Queens Brooklyn Etc
"This user specifically recommended Khao Kang for their green curry."
PositiveFrom post: Anyone Know Of Any Struggling Family Owned
"This user listed Khao Kang as a restaurant that could potentially be struggling or could use more attention."
NeutralFrom post: Wander Around Flushing Or Go To Khao Kang Before
"The commenter suggested having lunch at Khao Kang before heading to Flushing, as it closes at 7 PM."
PositiveFrom post: Wander Around Flushing Or Go To Khao Kang Before
"The commenter recommended Khao Kang as a great option for dinner before a Mets game, noting it's a different type of food than options in Flushing."
PositiveFrom post: Best Bang For Your Buck In This Economy Aka Big
"Khao Kang was listed as a recommendation for good value."
PositiveFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"The commenter expressed a desire to keep Khao Kang a secret, calling it their favorite Thai spot and jokingly telling others not to go."
PositiveFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"The commenter was pleasantly surprised by the list and was glad to see Khao Kang on it, among other new places they were excited to try."
PositiveFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"The commenter was sad to see Khao Kang on the list, stating it's their favorite Thai spot."
NegativeFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"The commenter expressed happiness that Khao Kang was on the list, noting they love that place."
PositiveFrom post: Heading To Nyc And Dont Want To Leave With Regrets
"This commenter recommends Khao Kang in Elmhurst for Thai food."
PositiveFrom post: Which Places Have Become Part Of Your Regular
"Khao Kang is listed by the commenter."
NeutralFrom post: Tell Me Your Favorite Reliablecomfylocal Eats
"Khao Kang is listed as a recommended restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: I Built A Site To Log My Favorite Bites Across
"The commenter notes that Khao Kang's prices have significantly increased over the past seven years, more than doubling from $7.50 for two entrees with rice to current NYC prices. Despite the price increase, they still consider it a great place."
NeutralFrom post: I Built A Site To Log My Favorite Bites Across
"Responding to a comment about Thai fried rice, the user suggests that all four listed restaurants, including Khao Kang, offer their own versions, making it a potential "fried rice crawl.""
PositiveFrom post: I Built A Site To Log My Favorite Bites Across
"The user lists Khao Kang as one of their top four Thai restaurants in Elmhurst, highlighting its quick-serve style where customers point at dishes behind the counter. They specifically recommend the Garlic Black Pepper Pork, praising its dry perfection and sweet, caramelized sauce."
PositiveFrom post: Whats Your Favorite Random Dish From A Random
"Khao Kang is praised, with the black pepper pork specifically called out as a must-order dish that the user always gets."
PositiveFrom post: Whats Your Favorite Random Dish From A Random
"Khao Kang is recommended for its garlic black pepper pork."
Positive