Kam Rai

When you want good Thai food in Astoria, you head to Elmhurst. Or, you order wisely at Kam Rai. Kam Rai is your best bet if you live nearby and want something more than pad thai. Pay special attention to the sections of the menu labeled by region (Northeastern, Southern, etc.). Dishes like the spicy rare beef and a refreshing jellyfish salad are just numbing enough to keep you on your toes, and they’ll go as “Thai spicy” as you want. Kam Rai also happens to be an adorable weeknight date spot with the green tiling and teardrop lamps of a much trendier restaurant, except it’s got all of Astoria’s friendly neighborhood charm. (Also, if you do want pad thai, there’s certainly nothing wrong with their delicious pad thai.)

photo credit: Alex Staniloff