Pongsri Thai - Chinatown

Known by two different names, old-timers usually refer to it as Thailand Restaurant. Sitting squarely on the Chinatown corner with view both of a park and a jail, the lunch specials are legendary with jurors and law-enforcement types. Late evenings are a free for all, with film crews, TriBeCa denizens and wanderers from all around eating in the packed dining room. While newer Thai restaurants have more style, from sleek lighting to fresh flowers to creative garnishes, the mostly-wood decor here is easy on the eyes. The menu is full of standard Thai fare, and there is nothing special about the place or the food. Nevertheless, as the Thai standard bearer in Chinatown, that's reason enough to return. A few other Pongrsi Thai locations have since opened.