A Taste of Thailand: Dining Destinations on Jericho Turnpike
Craving the vibrant flavors of Thailand? Jericho Turnpike, a bustling thoroughfare slicing through the heart of Nassau County on Long Island, is home to a surprisingly diverse selection of Thai restaurants just waiting to be discovered. From the fiery kick of Tom Yum to the soothing sweetness of Mango Sticky Rice, Thai cuisine offers a delightful and deeply satisfying experience for your taste buds. But with so many options vying for your attention, how do you choose the best?
This article will navigate the Thai food landscape along Jericho Turnpike, highlighting standout restaurants based on authenticity, flavor, ambiance, and value, helping you find your perfect Thai meal. We’ll go beyond the familiar Pad Thai, exploring regional specialties and hidden gems that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will spice up your life!
Dining Destinations on Jericho Turnpike
Siam Garden: A Jericho Turnpike Staple
Nestled on Jericho Turnpike in Commack, Siam Garden has been serving up authentic Thai cuisine to the Long Island community for over a decade. Stepping inside is like entering a tranquil oasis, with soft lighting, delicate Thai artwork adorning the walls, and the gentle sounds of traditional music creating a relaxing ambiance.
The menu at Siam Garden is extensive, featuring everything from classic curries to flavorful noodle dishes. But where they truly shine is with their seafood. The Pla Nueng Manow, a steamed whole fish with a tangy lime and chili sauce, is a crowd favorite. Another standout is the Gaeng Keow Wan (Green Curry) with your choice of protein, simmered in a rich coconut milk broth with bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and Thai basil. Prices are reasonable, with appetizers ranging from seven to ten dollars and entrees between fifteen and twenty-five dollars. They also offer a respectable selection of vegetarian and vegan options, clearly marked on the menu.
The flavors at Siam Garden are consistently vibrant and authentic, using fresh ingredients and traditional Thai spices. The spice levels are customizable, so you can enjoy a mild and fragrant dish or crank up the heat to your liking. Service is attentive and friendly, with staff always willing to offer recommendations and answer questions.
Online reviews consistently praise Siam Garden for its delicious food, beautiful ambiance, and excellent service. One Yelp reviewer raved, “The best Thai food I’ve had on Long Island! The Pad See Ew was perfectly cooked, and the staff was so friendly.” Siam Garden is a great choice for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Its tranquil atmosphere and delicious food make it a Jericho Turnpike gem.
Bangkok Kitchen: Modern Thai with a Twist
Located in Syosset, Bangkok Kitchen offers a more modern and trendy take on Thai cuisine. The interior is sleek and stylish, with exposed brick walls, contemporary lighting fixtures, and comfortable seating. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a popular spot for both lunch and dinner.
Bangkok Kitchen’s menu features a mix of classic Thai dishes and innovative creations. Their Pad Thai, of course, is a must-try, featuring rice noodles stir-fried with shrimp, chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce. But don’t miss out on their signature dishes, like the Crispy Duck with Tamarind Sauce, a perfectly crisp duck breast drizzled with a sweet and sour tamarind glaze. They also boast an impressive selection of Thai-inspired cocktails, perfect for pairing with your meal. Appetizers range from eight to twelve dollars, entrees are in the sixteen to thirty dollar range. Gluten-free options are readily available and clearly indicated on the menu.
The flavors at Bangkok Kitchen are bold and exciting, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The spice levels are a bit more assertive than at some other Thai restaurants, so be sure to specify your preference when ordering. The service is generally efficient and professional, although it can get busy during peak hours.
Customer reviews highlight the creativity and deliciousness of Bangkok Kitchen’s food. One Google reviewer wrote, “The food here is amazing! I love the modern take on classic Thai dishes. The cocktails are also fantastic.” Bangkok Kitchen is the perfect spot for a fun night out with friends or a casual dinner with family.
Thai Basil: A Quiet Culinary Escape
Tucked away in a small shopping center on Jericho Turnpike in Huntington, Thai Basil might be easy to miss, but it’s well worth seeking out. This unassuming restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a quiet lunch or dinner.
Thai Basil’s menu focuses on traditional Thai dishes, prepared with care and attention to detail. Their Tom Yum soup, a spicy and sour broth with mushrooms, lemongrass, galangal, and chilies, is a must-try. Another popular dish is the Massaman Curry, a mild and creamy curry with potatoes, onions, peanuts, and your choice of protein. The prices are very reasonable, with appetizers around six to eight dollars and entrees costing around twelve to twenty dollars. Thai Basil is also incredibly accommodating to dietary restrictions and allergies, readily adapting dishes to suit your needs.
The flavors at Thai Basil are authentic and comforting, reminiscent of home-style Thai cooking. The spices are well-balanced, and the ingredients are fresh and flavorful. The service is warm and welcoming, with the staff treating you like family.
Yelp reviewers frequently commend Thai Basil for its delicious food, friendly service, and reasonable prices. One reviewer wrote, “This is my go-to Thai place on Long Island! The food is always fresh and delicious, and the staff is so friendly.” Thai Basil is an excellent choice for a casual and affordable Thai meal.
Beyond the Familiar: Expanding Your Thai Food Horizons
Hidden Gems and Takeout Treasures
While Pad Thai and Green Curry are certainly staples, the world of Thai cuisine is vast and varied. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new!
Keep an eye out for smaller, family-run Thai restaurants along Jericho Turnpike. These hidden gems often offer some of the most authentic and flavorful Thai food at incredibly reasonable prices. Many of these smaller establishments focus primarily on takeout, making them perfect for a quick and delicious meal on the go.
The Magic of Thai Desserts
No Thai meal is complete without dessert! Mango Sticky Rice, a classic combination of sweet sticky rice and ripe mango, is a must-try. Other popular Thai desserts include coconut ice cream, fried bananas with honey, and Tub Tim Krob (water chestnuts in coconut milk).
Spice Up Your Order: Navigating the Thai Spice Scale
One of the defining characteristics of Thai food is its bold and complex spice profile. But be warned: Thai “hot” can be incredibly spicy! When ordering, be sure to clarify your spice preference. Many restaurants use a scale of mild, medium, and hot. If you’re not used to spicy food, start with mild or even ask for “not spicy” (mai phet). Remember, you can always add more chili flakes or chili sauce to your dish, but you can’t take the heat away!
Thai Food for Everyone: Dietary Considerations
Thai cuisine is generally very accommodating to dietary restrictions. Many dishes can be easily adapted to be vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. When ordering, be sure to inform your server of any allergies or dietary restrictions you have.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Jericho Turnpike offers a delicious journey through the heart of Thai cuisine. From the elegant ambiance of Siam Garden to the modern flair of Bangkok Kitchen and the comforting flavors of Thai Basil, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t be afraid to explore, experiment with new dishes, and most importantly, savor the vibrant and delicious flavors of Thailand.
So, the next time you’re craving the bold and aromatic flavors of Thailand, head to Jericho Turnpike and embark on a culinary adventure! Let us know your favorite Thai spots in the comments below, and share your culinary experiences. We hope this guide helps you discover your new favorite Thai restaurant right here on Jericho Turnpike!
