NYC Guide: SriPraPhai
SriPraPhai
Address | 64-13 39th Ave, Woodside, NY 11377
We spent the day at Queens College for a full day of basketball tournaments and when lunch break came around we were excited to head over to a bustling stretch of Woodside Avenue in Queens, for delicious Thai food at SriPraPhai—a New York City institution and a pilgrimage site for Thai food lovers. For over two decades, this family-run eatery has built a reputation for serving some of the most authentic and deeply flavorful Thai dishes outside of Bangkok. What began as a modest bakery counter in the late 1990s has evolved into a sprawling dining destination that hums with energy from open to close, filled with the aromas of lemongrass, chili, and fresh herbs.
The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious—bright, bustling, and welcoming—just as a neighborhood favorite should be. There’s a small garden patio for warm weather meals and a bakery case that nods to the restaurant’s origins, filled with Thai sweets and pandan-infused treats.
On our recent luhnch visit to SriPraPhai, we focused on exploring their expansive vegetarian menu, which turned out to be a treasure trove of vegan-friendly dishes bursting with authentic Thai flavor. We started with the The shredded green mango salad and this spicy, herbaceous dish was an instant favorite—vibrant, refreshing, and perfectly balanced. Each bite offered a burst of tangy green mango, the crunch of roasted peanuts, and the gentle heat of fresh chilies. The dressing, a mix of lime, chili, and just a hint of sweetness, tied everything together beautifully. It was bright and zesty, the kind of dish that wakes up your palate and keeps you reaching for more. Light yet full of character, it captured exactly what makes Thai salads so special: that harmony of texture, spice, and freshness in every forkful.
We also shared the Tom Kha soup—pure comfort in a bowl. Silky coconut milk infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, creating a fragrant, gently spiced broth. We ordered it with tofu, and the balance of creamy richness and citrusy brightness was irresistible. Each spoonful delivered layers of warmth and depth, from the subtle heat of Thai chilies to the refreshing tang of lime. The mushrooms added a satisfying earthiness that rounded everything out. It’s the kind of soup that soothes and awakens at once—aromatic, nourishing, and an essential reminder of why Thai cuisine feels like a hug and a thrill all at once.
Moving to the mains, the Drunken Noodles at SriPraPhai, ordered vegetarian and served with crisp cubes of fried tofu, were an unforgettable highlight. Wide rice noodles, wok-tossed over high heat, arrived glossy and perfectly smoky, infused with chili, garlic, and Thai basil. The vegetables—bright peppers, broccoli, and onions—added color and crunch, while the tofu soaked up all the savory-spicy sauce. Every bite had that addictive balance of heat, sweetness, and umami that defines great Thai street food. Despite its name, there’s nothing clumsy about this dish—it’s bold, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. Enjoying it with an ice-cold Thai iced tea on the side made the experience even better, a perfect harmony of spice and refreshment.
We also shared the vegetable green curry and it was wonderfully fragrant, with an aroma that hinted at lemongrass, coconut, and just the right touch of heat. Served with a side of fluffy white rice, it was the perfect balance of creamy and spicy. The vegetables—tender pumpkin, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and green beans—absorbed the curry’s rich, peppery broth beautifully. Each bite carried layers of flavor: the warmth of white pepper, the sweetness of coconut milk, and the brightness of fresh herbs. The rice helped mellow the spice while soaking up every drop of sauce. Comforting yet vibrant, this curry was a true standout—an irresistible mix of fragrance, texture, and bold, authentic Thai flavor.
By the time we finished our meal at SriPraPhai, we were completely and blissfully full. Each dish—from the zesty green mango salad to the rich, peppery green curry—was so generous and deeply satisfying that we had to pack up the rest to take home. The portions are hearty, perfect for sharing, and each bite carried that unmistakable depth and freshness that defines authentic Thai cooking. We only wished we’d saved room for dessert, with tempting options like mango sticky rice and pandan custard calling from the bakery case.
SriPraPhai truly lives up to its reputation as one of New York City’s most beloved Thai restaurants. It’s a place that celebrates balance and boldness—where spice, sweetness, and brightness all meet in perfect harmony. For vegan and vegetarian diners, it’s an especially rewarding find; so many of the dishes can be customized without fish sauce or egg, making it easy to enjoy an authentic Thai experience that’s entirely plant-based. Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch or a leisurely dinner, SriPraPhai delivers on every level: flavor, hospitality, and tradition. It’s the kind of meal that stays with you long after the table is cleared—an essential NYC dining experience.
