In Thai, klong means canal. Many of Thailand’s klongs are relaxing sites of refuge and escape from the frenetic city streets and their accompanied stresses. Located in the heart of the crazed East Village, St. Mark’s Place, home to tattoo shops, punk music and down-home pub grub, Klong is an underground oasis of tranquility and savory fare and the owners wouldn’t have it any other way, modeling their restaurant after their childhood experiences in 1970s Bangkok.

Once inside, you’ll experience a labyrinth of simulated waterfalls, an undulating gold steel ribbon traveling the walls of the entire restaurant, slick lounge music, and the delicious smells of Pad Thai, papaya, and mussels steaming from the kitchen.

Oh, yes, then there is the food, the yummy food, and the vast selection of it. All vegetables are naturally raised. Fresh fruit, seafood and meats are purchased daily and while normal Thai restaurants serve up the usual, bland Pad Thai, Klong differs, offering you authentic Bangkok cuisine. From cumin-seasoned shrimp in a tasty lime sauce to tofu served with crushed peanuts to the Southern Thai specialty, Mussaman Curry, your palate, and did we forget, your wallet? will be satisfied.

For the fancy decor and the chi-chi scene, don’t expect to unload your wallet. Appetizers run in the $4 range (and they certainly don’t skimp on flavor and portions) while entrées are in affordable $10-$13 range.

Klong NYC
7 Saint Mark’s Place
(between Second & Third Avenue)
New York, NY 10003
Subway: 6 to Astor Place
Telephone: 212-505-9955

TIP: Sneak out of work early to take advantage of Klong’s killer happy hour, buy one Singha beer and get one free or perhaps sample one of the many savory concoctions in the $4-$5 price range. Also, interested in hosting a private event? Contact the owners.

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