Sripraphai

Sripraphai at 64-13 39th Avenue in Woodside, Queens, is a Thai restaurant that food writers and locals regularly name among the best in New York City. Located in one of the city's most diverse neighbourhoods, near the 7 train, it has built its reputation on regional Thai cooking with real heat and depth rather than a softened, Americanised menu. The cuisine is broad, covering curries, noodle dishes, stir-fries, salads and Thai desserts, and the long menu rewards repeat visits. The best-known dish is the crispy watercress salad, a plate of fried watercress with shrimp, squid and a tangy dressing. Green papaya salad, a crispy pork dish stir-fried with basil, and a range of curries are other signature orders. Diners can adjust spice levels, and asking for heat at the level a dish is traditionally served is common practice among regulars. The dining room is casual, bright and often full, with a family-restaurant character and a garden area in warm weather. There is no formal dress code, and the noise level is that of a busy neighbourhood restaurant. Prices are in the $$ range, moderate for New York, and shared dishes make it affordable for groups. The beverage programme is modest, with Thai iced tea and soft drinks as the classic accompaniments. The restaurant is typically closed on Wednesday and otherwise serves lunch and dinner, though hours should be confirmed before travelling. Reservations are generally not the norm; it operates largely as a walk-in restaurant, and waits build at weekends and dinner peak. Cash may be preferred, so visitors should confirm payment options. Reaching Woodside from Manhattan is straightforward by subway, and the neighbourhood's other Filipino, Irish and Latin American restaurants make it a worthwhile food trip in Queens.