ZipPicks Awards
Best Thai in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Pho in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Khaosan
8.7
Khaosan brings a slightly more polished, ingredient-focused approach to Thai on Montague, with an emphasis on vegetarian-friendly options and upgraded classics. Dishes like curry dumplings, khao soi, and garlic udon with hanger steak show more regional nuance than the average neighborhood spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Curry Dumplings, Khao Soi Chicken, Garlic Udon Hanger Beef
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Modern Thai with strong vegetarian options and more regionally expressive dishes.
Who should go: Diners seeking slightly elevated, veggie-friendly Thai.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners or weekday lunch specials.
What to order: Curry Dumplings, Khao Soi Chicken, Garlic Udon Hanger Beef.
Insider tip: Explore the plant-based section—many dishes are designed vegetarian first, not as afterthoughts.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Montague and nearby side streets is limited and competitive after 6pm; nearby municipal garages are a more reliable option for dinner.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine, but stylish tops, dresses, or jackets fit the room better.
Noise level: Moderate—lively energy but still easy to hold a full conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days, occasional 10–15 minutes at noon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—extensive vegetarian offerings with many dishes designed plant-forward from the start.
Vegan options: Good selection—several naturally vegan curries, noodle dishes, and small plates, though not fully separate from the main menu.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options available, especially curries and rice-based dishes; staff can guide on safe choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Khaosan hits the sweet spot between polished and relaxed, with stylish energy, shareable dishes, and a calm enough room to talk comfortably.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekend dinners are risky without a reservation—booking ahead is strongly advised.
Is it kid-friendly? Works best for older kids and teens who enjoy noodles and mild curries; it’s more of an adult dining room than a family-focused Thai spot.
Best For
Better for: More refined presentation, stronger vegetarian cooking, and a better date-night atmosphere than most neighborhood Thai restaurants.
Skip if: You’re craving ultra-casual takeout Thai or the bold, fiery street-food intensity found at more traditional or hole-in-the-wall spots.