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 Pukk
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 71 First Avenue
New York, NY 10003
Cross Streets: (Between 4th St. and 5th St.)
Phone: (212) 253-2741
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User Rating
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9.75
Highly Recommended
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Editorial Review
New on the vegetarian scene in 2005, we predict Pukk will become one of the hottest new vegetarian restaurants in Manhattan. Pukk, the Thai word for vegetable, is the first entirely vegetarian Thai restaurant in the city. While they leave behind the traditional Thai fish sauce, as well as traditional décor, they still manage to pull off the whole scene without a hitch. Pukk's sleek, modern interior is as fresh as their menu, bringing you a truly amazing dining experience for an affordable price.
Our meal started out with extremely pleasant service and designer Voss water, followed by some Curry Thai Pancakes ($4.00) and Mushroom Puffs ($4.00) for the table. The pancakes were perfectly done—soft and flaky with a smooth flavor that softened the spicy curry sauce. There was definitely some kick to the sauce, but it was a nice wake up call to prepare the taste buds for our more delicately flavored entrees. The Mushroom Puffs, my personal favorite, were stuffed with a mild cucumber salsa, succulent mushrooms, potato, and onions, all within a crispy flaky crust. The mushrooms were fresh and well-cooked—substantial, but yielding to the bite—not rubbery or mushy. Their texture was matched only by the juicy explosion of flavor that made it apparent how much time and care went into the preparation of our meal.
In traditional Thai style, we shared a sampling of entrees for the table. While we wondered how the Son In Law Tofu ($9.00) got its name, it was clear how it made its way to the menu. The soft tofu coated with a sweet, crispy crust was perfect to dip in the sweet and sour tamarind sauce that came in tangy and candied and left with slight spicy air.
While every dish was extremely good, the Tofu Water Chestnut ($7.00) topped them all. With all the healthy dishes we've eaten, at all the restaurants in Manhattan, our head editor will claim without hyperbole that this is his favorite dish. It's a bold statement, but truth be told it's not a stretch at all. You'll just have to try it for yourself. Perfectly cooked tofu, crisp water chestnuts, duo nut, scallion, and shitake mushrooms are all sautéed in a chili tamarind sauce that is just spicy enough to avoid overwhelming the hints of sweetness throughout.
We can't say enough good things about Pukk. Not only was the food absolutely delicious, the service was as quick, attentive, and caring as the food preparation. The attractive presentation of the food might just make you feel like you've stepped up to fine dining. And while the sleek, unique, and cool interior reinforces the feel that you're part of the “In” crowd, the price reminds you that you don't have to be a movie star to eat like one. Three of us ate very happily for under $25 (before tip), and upon leaving, we certainly felt like part of the “A-list.” Maybe it's about time I give Paris Hilton a call. Anyone have her number? |
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Restaurant Information
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Vegetarian
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Thai
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$ (under $15)
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Member Reviews -- Sorted by
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Showing: 1 of 1 | | User Rating: Highly Recommended | yummy! Posted by arsesta on 5/31/05 | My best friend (a vegetarian) and I (a meat-lover) ate at Pukk for his birthday and he was in heaven. Even I enjoyed the food! The lunch special is only$6. We ordered the basil chicken & sweet & sour chicken & 3 starters. The crispy tofu was so good! Try their lychee ice tea. I didn't like their caramel chocolate cake (too dry for me) but my best friend devoured it. Very friendly wait staff. I love the decor, very simple and modern. Plus you have to check out their funky bathroom sink!
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