There are almost too many good Thai restaurants to choose from in Woodside and Elmhurst, but SriPraPhai is one to prioritize. Initially a small spot, the place has since expanded into a larger space to accommodate the masses—equipped with a sizeable outdoor patio. Even so, if you show up during prime dinner hours, be prepared to take a number and wait outside.
The menu at SriPraPhai is as thick as a luxury travel magazine, featuring dishes from all over Thailand, from the north’s signature khao soi, to a few pages of seafood dishes commonly found in the south. With dishes ranging from $6.50 steamed dumplings to $21.50 soft shell crab, nothing here will cost you too much. And that’s ideal, because this is somewhere you’re going to want to order a lot and come back repeatedly.
Food Rundown
Som Tum (Papaya Salad)
Sweet, sour, salty and hot, this salad hits on all four flavors. Refreshing despite some strong heat, this is among the best papaya salads in the city. Go for the variation with crispy ground catfish on top if you want to change it up.
Beef Laab
Tender, salty beef balanced against crispy red onions and lots of lime juice. If you like your laab hot, do not be afraid to ask your waiter for some extra heat.
Green Curry
Curry at SriPraPhai is a must. This one is our particular favorite, thanks to eggplant that is perfectly tender, with just enough crunch to avoid being mushy. Despite some solid kick, the dish maintains a nice balance of flavors throughout. Don’t be shy with your sticky rice, either: clump up a ball and soak up those juices.
photo credit: Ryan Muir
Fried Soft Shelled Crab
Served up a few ways, each one offers different toppings. But at the end of the day, the lightly fried crab is the highlight. We prefer the one with chili, garlic, and basil leaves, but make sure you get at least one for the table.
Sweet Sausage Salad
Bites of sugary-sweet pork served over a bed of crispy cucumbers, onions, chilies, and lime juice. Order some.
Drunken Noodles
If your standard Thai order includes drunken noodle, then by all means, get some here. The dish is solid, with fresh noodles, but it isn’t one of the standout dishes.
Green Tea Ice Cream
A refreshing way to soothe your tongue after a chili-heavy meal.
We eat our fair share of pho, and have to say that Pho Bang satisfies like no other. There aren’t many things better in this world than a huge bowl of oxtail broth with noodles and fixins – and this one is super flavorful and perfectly rich.
When it comes to Hell’s Kitchen Thai, this is where the magic happens. Prepare to get some spicy in your life, just a short walk from your sad Midtown office.