boontarica j.
Yelp
Chada - Royal Thai Elegance in the West Village
I don't say this lightly--Chada might be my new favorite Thai spot in NYC. Nestled near West 4th, it brings a sense of modern elegance that nods to its namesake: chada, the ornate Thai headdress worn in classical dance and royal pageantry. The restaurant embodies that same grace--refined, bold, and absolutely unforgettable.
You can come here for a romantic dinner, an intimate foodie night out, or just to treat yourself to something special. Either way, you'll leave completely smitten.
We went all in on the menu (as one should), and truthfully? Every dish was a standout.
STARTERS:
* The folded dumplings were delicate little flavor parcels--soft but full of punch.
* Chicken skin--crispy, salty perfection. Think the most elevated bar snack you've ever had.
* Miang tartlets were jewels of sweet, sour, and herbaceous freshness in a perfect bite.
* Oysters were clean and briny with a Thai twist--bright, refreshing.
* Beef tartare: rich and silky with bold spices. Not your average tartare--this one brings heat and depth.
* Raw crabs--funky, briny, and not for the faint of heart, but if you're into bold, unapologetic flavors, you'll be obsessed.
MAINS:
* The crispy pork with salt and pepper was impossibly crunchy and wildly satisfying.
* Crab curry--luxurious and deeply spiced. This is the kind of dish that lingers in your mind for days.
* Ribeye steak was seared beautifully and paired with a tangy-spicy dipping sauce that cut through the richness.
* And the fried branzino? An absolute showstopper. Golden and crispy outside, tender inside, and served with a tangy, spicy sauce that lit it all up.
DRINKS were crafted with as much intention as the food:
* Last Kiss of Summer--fruity, floral, and beautifully balanced.
* Lost in Chada--house signature, smooth and layered.
* I'm Waiting for Yuzu--bright and zesty with a citrus kick.
* And the Coco Thai Tea? A dreamy, grown-up version of Thai iced tea--creamy, coconutty, and just sweet enough.
The vibe? Think elegant without being stuffy. Warm lighting, thoughtful plating, and the kind of service where everyone seems genuinely proud of what's coming out of the kitchen. It's elevated Thai dining, but still deeply soulful.
Chada feels like a love letter to Thai culture--rooted in tradition, styled with grace, and delivered with bold, unforgettable flavor. Do not skip the crab curry or the fried branzino. Trust me.
For more food and lifestyle gems around NYC and beyond, follow me on Instagram @notsoniaa