A new storefront called “Baht: Queens Inspired Thai Eatery & Bar” is truly living up to its name. The cuisine is mostly Thai, and the place could only exist in the world’s most diverse borough.
Look no further than the appetizers. The Larb Wings, Satay, Shu Mai, and Egg Rolls make sense. But then there are Empanadas (curry chicken, onions, potatoes, avocado aoili dip) and Calamar (crispy squid with Thai sriracha aioli dip).
Hey, it’s in Jackson Heights. Some people might refer to the empanadas as “momos.”
In operation since April, Baht serves a delicious Kee Mao (basil, bell peppers, onions, flat noodles, protein). The See Eiw (stir-fried noodles, Chinese broccoli, egg, protein) amazes. So do the Crying Tiger (skirt steak, mixed green salad, jeaw sauce, sticky rice), Pla Tod (whole fried red snapper, green beans, mango salad, peanuts, jasmine rice), Krapow (ground pork, basil, bell pepper, onions, jasmine rice), and Basil Fried Rice (chili garlic, basil, bell peppers, onions, protein).
To enjoy more South American influence, order the Khao Pad Poo, which consists of lump crab meet, egg, fried rice, and Thai chimichurri. (Thai chimichuuri? Yes, it seems to mix something fishy with scallions, chiles, garlic, and other spices.)
The cultural mix continues at the bar. The Green Jacket features lemongrass-infused vodka with Thai iced tea. The Olieng is an impressive espresso martini. The Barrio Chino brings spicy chilies with makrut lime and lemongrass. Dessert is Mango Sticky Rice all the way.
Now the plot thickens. Baht, which is the name of the Thai currency, is located at 78-23 37th Ave., where Arunee Thai operated for many years. Arunee’s owners decided to retire, and their daughters – Tharinya Chen and Sawanya Phinphattrukin – opened Baht at the same spot with Tharinya’s husband, Quin Chen, who was born in Peru, but has Chinese heritage. (This might explain the fried rice dishes.)
Call it “Quintessential Queens.”
Images: Rob MacKay