ZipPicks Awards
Best Thai in Greenpoint
Master Critic Review
Kub Kao
8.0
Kub Kao is a 2025 newcomer in the former Sama Street space, offering a broader Thai menu with curries, rice plates, and Northern-style khao soi in a contemporary room. Early feedback highlights the freshness of the curries and noodle dishes, with a space that feels more polished than most takeout-focused spots nearby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khao Soi, Green Curry, Pineapple Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A newer Thai kitchen using a larger, design-forward space for curries and khao soi.
Who should go: Guests looking for modern Thai in a sit-down setting.
When to visit: Soft-opening period evenings for a calmer first look.
What to order: Khao soi, green curry, pineapple fried rice.
Insider tip: As the liquor program and hours evolve, check their social feeds for updated offerings and specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be workable on side streets earlier in the evening, but becomes tight after 7pm—budget a few minutes to circle.
Dress code: Smart casual; the room feels polished enough for a nice shirt or dress, but relaxed outfits won’t feel out of place.
Noise level: Moderate—music and room buzz sit below conversation level, so you can comfortably talk at the table.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation during peak prime-time in this still-new space.
Weekday lunch: Generally minimal to no wait, especially earlier in service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection—several curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes can be made vegetarian on request.
Vegan options: Limited but viable—ask for vegetable curries and hold fish sauce; staff is used to tailoring plates.
Gluten-free options: Select curries and rice plates work, but wheat-based noodles and sauces appear throughout—confirm dish-by-dish with staff.
Best For
Better for: Modern sit-down Thai with fresher-feeling curries and a stylish room—ideal when you want comfort dishes elevated by presentation and space.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional, chili-forward street-food style or a fast, budget takeout experience—nearby shops may serve those needs better.