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Isan Thai

Zaab Zaab

Elmhurst, Queens, NY 📍 Maps

Zaab Zaab's Elmhurst location was originally a Hainanese chicken spot that completely pivoted after a chef's staff meal of Isan dishes blew the owners away. This restaurant is irreplaceable for its commitment to undiluted, fiery Isan flavors, a regional Thai cuisine less common in NYC that emphasizes spicy, sour, and funky notes. Regulars know to embrace the heat and the unique flavor profiles that set it apart from typical central Thai fare.

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★ The Legend
Larb Ped Udon
This Isan minced duck dish features duck breast, fried duck skin, and liver, seasoned with charred galangal, bird's eye chilies, and lime leaves. It's the dish that famously convinced the owners to rebrand their entire restaurant to focus on Isan cuisine after chef Aniwat Khotsopa prepared it as a staff meal.
◆ Fan Favorite
Mieng Pla Pow
This whole salt-encrusted tilapia is stuffed with pandan and lemongrass before being grilled. Diners love wrapping pieces of the flavorful fish with fresh herbs and dipping them in the accompanying sauces, especially the spicy nam jim.
● Chef's Pick
Tom Zaab Pork Rib
Chef Aniwat Khotsopa's menu features this hot pot soup with baby pork ribs in a spicy tamarind and lime broth. It's a hearty and intensely flavored dish that showcases the bold, sour, and spicy characteristics of Isan cooking.
◇ Hidden Gem
Moo Tod Pla Ra
Most first-timers might overlook this appetizer, but regulars swear by the fried pork belly marinated in fermented fish sauce. It's a deeply savory and slightly funky snack that perfectly embodies the unique umami of Isan cuisine, offering a true taste of the region's distinct flavors.
Insider Tip

First-timers often underestimate the spice level here, ordering 'spicy' when they should be more cautious. Instead, ask for 'Isaan spicy' if you're truly adventurous, or start with 'regular spicy' and have sticky rice on hand to temper the heat. This ensures you can fully appreciate the complex, undiluted flavors without being overwhelmed.

Every restaurant has its legendary dishes.

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