I love Thai food. I have been excited about all the hype of the new Pok Pok NY, acclaimed chef Andy Ricker's outpost of his Portland hit. I recently went to check it out in the boonies of Brooklyn. I took a seat at the bar, in their small front room, as opposed to their tented backyard, where hoards of diners feast on Chef Ricker's take on Thai cuisine. The vibe is Thai shack in Brooklyn, and it's a cool spot. I will say I enjoyed my meal here immensely. The textures and flavors were unique and delicious. There was something different about this food, in a good way.

Cha Ca "La Vong" ($14), Vietnamese catfish marinated in turmeric and sour sticky rice, fried in turmeric oil with scallions and dill, served on rice vermicelli with peanuts, mint, cilantro, and mam nem, is excellent. That catfish tender as can be, those vermicelli practically melt in your mouth. The flavors are perfectly balanced, the kick of dill a nice touch. Order it.

A special salad of the day of Northern Thai young tamarind leaf, tomatoes, onions, and pork, with aromatic curry paste was wonderful. This dish really opened up all your senses. A great balance of spice.

Kaeng Hung Leh ($14), Nothern Thai pork belly and pork shoulder curry, with ginger, palm sugar, turmeric, tamarind Burmese curry powder, and pickled garlic, is also really nice. Very tasty.

No need for dessert at Pok Pok NY, (my affogato with Chinese donuts was nothing special,) but for all you people looking for something non-alcoholic, try one of their drinking vinegars ($4). My pomegranate vinegar drink was refreshing as can be.

Pok Pok NY is a true culinary adventure. First you must get there, and then you will be led on a culinary adventure unique to your taste buds, as well as New York. Take the trip, a magical adventure awaits.

Pok Pok NY
127 Columbia St.
Brooklyn, NY 11231
718=923-9322
www.pokpokny.com