Pok Pok's catfish larb — Photo courtesy of goodiesfirstHighly anticipated Pok Pok NY, Brooklyn's newest culinary sensation, may seem overhyped and out of the way. Located in Brooklyn’s up-and-coming Columbia Waterfront District, getting there can be a deterrent.  Add a long walk to the train ride and you may be thinking it’s just not worth it. But, chef Andy Ricker’s casually cool eatery lives up to its reputation. 

Pok Pok NY’s backyard is something you must experience. The ambience is genuinely unique, kind of like hanging out at a rural American-style backyard BBQ. . . in Phuket. Rounded vertical bamboo-columned walls, rotating ceiling fans, hanging plants and bright vinyl tablecloths only add to the charm of chef Ricker’s Portland, Oregon-originated restaurant.

On a humid evening, the sense of authenticity is only enhanced. Cool down with signature cocktails featuring unique ingredients like salted plum wine and lemongrass, and feast on charcoal-fired meats, herb-y refreshing papaya salads and lightly sweet noodles.  Each dish hits a subtle, but balanced note and even complements the others; pork belly and prawns meet in harmony with vinegar and fresh basil. Pok Pok NY is not a typical Thai restaurant - no tomato paste here. This is Thai-style comfort food.

Rumored to be the hardest table to get in New York this summer season, insiders know you can easily get a seat early in the week instead of on Friday nights.