Sticky Like Rice

By Peizhao Sun

It seems as if everyone from TriBeCa to the Upper West Side has been completely disinterested by Pad Thai these days. So-called ethnic foods, regardless where you go – be it Flushing, KTown or Ninth Ave., reiterates the same old slogan – "best Bulgogi" or "freshest Phó," which brings Khe Yo to the front of the line. Its modern take on some of the coziest Laotian recipes has earned itself a place in adventurous New Yorkers' hearts. From its now famous sticky rice to the savory and earthy Chili Prawn, Khe Yo draws inspiration from Laotian cuisine and creates mouthwatering Southeast Asian delicacies, making Khe Yo this summer's it spot for a gastronomical adventure.

This intimate spot, sitting right between West Broadway and Hudson Avenue, offers the fitting dinning experience for the TriBeCa neighborhood. Upon arrival, diners are greeted immediately by the delicate and welcoming atmosphere, amplified by the amber lighting and the soft whispers of seated guests. With one quick glance, diners can make out quickly the nuances in the intricate design of space within the restaurant. Each guest is given a comfortable amount of space perfect for either a casual business engagement or a lighthearted and intimate date, which comfortably satisfies the different needs of TriBeCa's Wall St. neighbors, window shoppers and budding families.

The menu, carefully crafted by Executive Chef Soulayphet Schwader, partner Nick Bradley and Marc Forgione, ensures diners the signature Southeastern Asian cuisine they have come for in a crisp, clean manner. Items such as Crunchy Coconut rice, Creekstone Farms Sesame Beef Jerky or the Kona Kampachi have already earned a fame of their own for its complex yet straightforward flavors. Its sticky rice, however, deserves an unexpected spotlight. Prior to the meal, guests are met with wet towels, convenient for cleaning up those eager hands before indulging in the thick and appetizing rice. As the menu implies, the best way to experience the sticky rice is to use your hand and dip it in the complementary Bang Bang and the eggplant sauces, since it "tastes better when you eat it with your hands."

While the chef's precision in combining the different flavors is of enormous importance, the overall dining experience is equally significant. Offering both the accurate Laotian flavors and a cozy, pleasant dinning ambience, Khe Yo is without a doubt the restaurant with the tangiest style in Manhattan.

157 Duane Street

New York, NY 10013

212.587.1089

kheyo.com