Union Square, a busy hub in the heart of downtown Manhattan, offers a wide variety of shopping, dining and nightlife choices. Among the square's culinary options are several well-regarded Thai restaurants with excellent menus and atmosphere.
This restaurant right on Union Square once had a reputation for being more concerned with its "hip factor" than its food. But in recent years Republic has received outstanding dining reviews and is a favorite among neighborhood residents and tourists alike. The interior is stunning and modern, with a bar that runs along an entire wall of the restaurant and opens onto the kitchen. Menu options include small plates, sandwiches, broth noodles and--of course--Republic's trademark noodle staples and specials. Republic's outdoor seating offers great people-watching in the square as well.
Republic
37 Union Square West
New York, NY 10003
212-627-7172
thinknoodles.com
Located just north of Union Square, Rohm prides itself on its authentic, home-style Thai cooking. On its web site, Rohm claims its dishes are the same you'd find traveling through the countryside or visiting Bangkok. Popular dishes such as Drunken Noodles, Peanut Curry and Pad Thai have garnered rave customer reviews on sites such as newyork.citysearch.com and yelp.com.
Rohm
27 East 20th Street
New York, NY 10003
212-228-7681
rohmnyc.com
Laut's simple menu allows customers to choose their meat, fish or tofu to be sauteed, fried or cooked in with their entree choice, which ranges from Masak Kicap (a cinnamon dish with chili, ginger, and mixed veggies) to Masamman Delite (stir fried coconut curry with veggies and cashews). Laut has earned solid reviews on yelp.com, though some erstwhile customers have complained of the restaurant's steadily climbing prices. However, the pretty decor, exposed brick and popular menu make this a popular favorite for lunch and dinner.
Laut
15 East 17th Street
New York, NY 10003
212-206-8989
lautnyc.com