I stumbled upon this brand new Thai Cuisine called, “Paet Rio,” in Elmhurst one afternoon. The menu sign in front of the restaurant caught my eye, as it advertised their today’s menu; Khao Kha Moo (Tender pork leg in sweet dark soy sauce) and Moo-Krob-Khra-Prow (Crispy pork sautéed with fresh basil, garlic, onions, chili paste and bell peppers), and the latter happened to be one of my favorite Thai dishes.

I was already in love with the restaurant’s atmosphere; a modern façade with high ceilings, wood tables, and leather couches giving the restaurant a cozy yet elegant look.

Paet Rio has lunch special menus from Monday to Friday from 11AM – 4 PM. The service was excellent and the waitress was very attentive. I ordered Crispy Pork Basil (Pad Kra Prow Moo Krob) that came with clear soup with chicken.

The food was served promptly and I was not disappointed. The crispy pork tasted great. I have tried this dish at so many Thai restaurants that don’t serve it fresh, but this is the real deal. My first bite of the crispy pork from Paet Rio tasted just like I remember it being in Thailand. The only small inconvenience is that they only accept cash. Other than that, I’d give Paet Rio five stars. I asked the chef herself to give me her top three dishes and she recommended:

· Thai Spring Roll for appetizer

· Crispy Pork Basil

· Pla Yam Mango (Fried whole fish with mango salad)

If you are in Elmhurst, NYC, check out Paet Rio Authentic Thai Restaurant 81-10 Broadway Ave., Elmhurst, NY 11373

Open daily Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 2 am

Friday – Saturday 11 am- 3 am

Or make reservation 917-832-6672, 347-738-4372

Check out their Facebook page!