Pig & Khao UWS
At Pig & Khao’s second location, big garage doors, neon lighting, and not-too-loud hip hop bring a casual, industrial feel to 81st and Amsterdam. The Thai and Filipino food is pretty much similar to what you’ll find at the Lower East Side original: dishes like pork sisig, khao soi, flaky whole fried fish, and BBQ babyback ribs—all at approachable (and occasionally slightly diluted) levels of spice. But this Pig & Khao also has “roti tacos,” which consist of chewy Thai roti folded over your choice of filling. If they ever open for lunch, they'd be an excellent takeout option. The mellow flavors and range of options makes this a useful, easy option for everything from a first date to a lowkey weeknight birthday, helped along with some Last Word jello shots or a calamansi spritz with pisco. For up to six people, you can get a set dinner for $50 per person.
photo credit: Will Hartman
Pig and Khao should consider opening up a lunchtime takeout window for these tacos. They’re big and filling, and the chewy roti reigns in the contents nicely. We like the charred chicken satay, though something pickled would go a long way.
photo credit: Will Hartman
This pork belly is gelatinous on the inside and crunchy on the skin, just as it should be, and there’s a runny egg nestled in the bottom of the bowl. It pairs well with coconut rice, though the adobo tastes like it’s holding back a little from its full salty, sour potential.
photo credit: Pig and Khao
These noodles with plenty of pickled mustard greens and just the right amount of heat should be on every table.
