OBAO

305

233

655

15 days ago

Everything was yummy: crispy pork belly, the pho, Bo luc lac, and pad Thai. The mango sticky rice looks a little funny, but was fantastic. Easy to walk in on a Sunday for lunch for four. read more

OBAO - PAD THAI (GLUTEN FREE). - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Mango sticky rice - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Bò Lúc Lac - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Crispy Pork Belly - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pho Bò - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Veronica L.

83

325

1487

2 months ago

Solid dinner spot in Midtown East! We came as a party of 6 as a walk in and were luckily seated right away. Wide variety of Thai and Viet spots on the menu, from pho to stir fried noodles to rice dishes. Everything tastes great! We got the Mango Sticky Rice for dessert and the mangoes were ripe, sweet, and in season. One critique is the inconsistency of portion sizes. My portion of Shrimp Pad Thai was smaller than another person in my group who got the Chicken Pad Thai, which seemed a bit weird. Even another patron at a different table had a larger portion, so I was a bit deflated. Otherwise, still a reliable spot for great Thai/Viet food. Same vibes and great taste as their Hells Kitchen location, YUM!! read more

OBAO - Drink Menu (late May 2026) - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Shrimp Pad Thai - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Drunken Noodles - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Fresh Mango Sticky Rice - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Menu (late May 2026) - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pho Chay - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Lunch Menu (late May 2026) - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 5

Thanks 4

Love this 4

Oh no 0

Angelo B.

3

35

25

6 months ago

I went out for dinner with family visiting from out of town and this was the perfect spot for eating family style. They have a good array of appetizers and I like that their menu isn't strictly Thai cuisine (see: bánh xèo, phở). Our server was busy but actively checked in on us. I loved the pork belly (we basically inhaled it). Their green curry and pad thai were still so good when I had them for lunch the day after. I'll be coming back for cocktails and more pork belly. read more

OBAO - Vietnamese crispy pork belly - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Papaya salad, kimchi fries, steamed dumplings - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Cocktail menu - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pad Thai, pad see ew, green curry - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Donnell K.

134

161

187

27 days ago

Don't let the size of this place fool you. It's small, unassuming, and narrow, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in quality. The food was absolutely delicious full of flavor and clearly prepared with care. Every dish we had was well-seasoned and satisfying. The service was right on point, from taking our order to pacing the meal perfectly. Nothing felt rushed, and nothing took too long. The atmosphere is simple and comfortable, and every time I've visited, the place has been busy which says a lot. Great food, great service, and a consistently enjoyable experience. I'll definitely be back read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Danielle J.

247

684

425

2 months ago

Beautiful food! And flavorful too. Lovely atmosphere for a great add to the experience. The crispy spring rolls was a unique presentation. The spare ribs with honey tamarind glaze were super tender & PHENOM. Big thumbs up. Nice happy hour specials! read more

OBAO - Crispy Spring Rolls - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Spare Ribs - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Maryann S.

0

47

0

3 hours ago

Great customer service, delicious food and lovely ambiance. We will continue to dine here.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Helen S.

67

227

134

3 months ago

Stumbled upon this place while looking for a place to have a quick lunch. They had happy hour on a Sunday and we ordered a couple Singha beers for $8. I really loved my drunken noodles, the noodles were very soft, basil was super fresh, overall 10/10. We also ordered the spring rolls as appetizers which were good. Service was very good as well, I would recommend it. read more

OBAO - Spring Rolls - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Erik B.

363

429

1022

7 months ago

Very disappointing delivery experience. I ordered the Thai basil eggplant dish with tofu - it was appropriately spiced but the portion size was not great. There was no easy way to replace it with brown rice and chopsticks didnt come included. The dish was cold by the time it arrived to me (approx 2 hours later on Uber Eats). Then I ordered the vegetarian summer rolls that came with peanut sauce. The peanut sauce tasted expired even though the rolls themselves were decent. I was disappointed by the food temperature, time to arrival (although some blame is deserved by Uber Eats) and the expired condiment. I'd like to try Obao again with hopefully better results. read more

OBAO - Eggplant with Eggplant Tofu with Spicy Garlic Sauce - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Summer rolls - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Seby I.

53

573

5600

29 days ago

The cuisine at Obao was delicious. Located midtown it was easy to locate. Jennifer had hankered for Vietnamese food and I had created a list for her. Recently we had eaten at La Dong. Would Obao measure up? We began with two appetizers of honey tamarind glazed rib and crispy pork belly. Vietnamese cuisine thankfully has lots of greens so wrapping each piece of the fried pork belly made it far tastier than just being rich. For our main course, Jen chose Pho Ga with chicken. I chose the pork chops with rice. The pho was delicious and Jen mi enjoyed it. My pork chops were fine but I prefer the tastier ones at Nha Trang. Dessert was mango sticky rice. The rice here had a blue hue. This was toothsome. Once again we wanted to run away with the beautiful washbasin. Two restrooms are on the ground floor. One had the exquisite blue and white washbasin and the other had Aesop hand wash. Apparently Bear who works here likes Aesop products. An Australian line, Aesop is expensive and I always note the toiletries in a restaurant. I was impressed. We both enjoyed lunch and I had enough left over for another meal. read more

OBAO - Menu - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Mango Sticky Rice dessert - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pho Ga - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Lunch special menu - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Washbasin to die for - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pretty washbasin - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pretty interior - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Tynecia H.

135

6

2 months ago

We had three picky generations to feed while in NY. Obao hit the mark! We enjoyed our food, kiddie and adult cocktails as well the environment. Everyone was pleased with service and vowed to return. We picked up carry out on our way back to Chicago. We ordered the berry mojito, chicken wings, drunken noodles, shrimp fried rice, chicken fried rice, some sort of yellow curry with rice noodles. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Hannah C.

376

272

1472

8 months ago

A solid dinner spot! I really loved the ambiance of this place: peaceful, cozy, and elegant. The interior of the restaurant was gorgeous, with flowers draping from the ceiling. The service was a bit slow, which was unexpected as there were not too many customers on a weekday evening. We did have to ask for refills of water a couple of times and checked in on our dishes a few times as well due to a long waiting period. The food itself was decent! I appreciated how the restaurant offered both Thai and Vietnamese dishes. For an appetizer, we tried the Vietnamese Crispy Pork Belly. The pork belly itself was delectable, with perfectly cooked crispy skin. To our surprise, however, the pork belly was only accompanied by two pieces of lettuce. I do think this lettuce amount was a fluke, as I saw other tables with far more than two lettuce pieces. For our main dishes, we had the Pho Bò and the Pad Thai. The Pho Bò was savory and comforting, featuring slices of beef and brisket. The Pad Thai was packed with flavor, and the noodles were cooked to perfection. Our meal ended with mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream. The mango sticky rice featured sweet mangos and paired perfectly with the refreshing coconut ice cream. This was a solid restaurant, but I'm not sure if I would visit again given the differing portion sizes between customers and the delays in service. read more

OBAO - L.Pad Thai - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Interior - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Exterior - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Vincent P.

11

180

356

5 months ago

Surprisingly good. Love the cozy ambiance. The cocktails are so-so, it's so overpriced for the size of them. But the food is amazing. Love the mushroom tacos, they got vegan options! We had crab fried rice and tofu pho which are both delicious. The service is pretty attentive and nice. Will be back! read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Hailey M.

192

141

57

11 months ago

This is our absolute favorite Thai spot in NYC. We started going here close to 15 years ago but moved to Raleigh 10 years ago. We came back today after eight years and we continue to be wowed. Not only is the food delicious but they are the nicest staff and just pure kindness. We always loved their pork skewars on sugarcane but they stopped making them recently on the main menu. Lo and behold they brought us out two orders because we mentioned how much we missed them. Just wonderful and clean restaurant with excellent food and drinks! read more

OBAO - Pad see ew with chicken - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Weiting H.

71

283

627

8 months ago

We came for lunch on a Wednesday and they had great lunch specials as well as delicious mocktails. I always appreciate a place with mocktail menus! Their food was so delicious. Their ingredients were very fresh and the food was the perfect amount of sweet and spicy. Deliciously paired with white rice. read more

OBAO - Mocktail - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Ka Prao Kai Khai Dao(Basil) - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Lychee mocktail - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Janna G.

105

55

16

2 months ago

The good was good enough- shrimp in green sea was my favorite - their comfort with this clear health code violation means I'll never go back. The dog sat in her lap in clear view the entire meal and was even eating from her plate. Staff didn't blink an eye. Not ok. read more

OBAO - Woman with dog who sat in her lap the entire meal and even ate from her plate. Staff did not care - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Niss A.

7

145

490

7 months ago

Was in the Area and saw this cute little Restaurant OBao. Very cute traditional Thai Decor restaurant. The staff were super friendly and kind. We started with the fried calamari It was delicious. Then for entree Shrimp Fried Rice. Pho Rib both were very delicious. Even though we were very full we ordered the coconut ice cream. Which was enough for both of us to share. Great place. Try if you are in the area. read more

OBAO - Pho Rib - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Shrimp Basil Fried Rice - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Fried Calamari - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Monicka C.

95

410

1183

1 year ago

Order: - Kimchi Fries (5/5) - Pad See Ew (5/5) Pros: - Great tasting food with large menu of Thai and Vietnamese food - Great cocktails and list of beer/wine/spirits - Quick and kind servers Cons: - Gets very busy and loud. I suggest making a reservation for dinner - Tight seating with little space between each table Overall: I've been to Obao numerous times. Its a consistent restaurant with great tasting food. read more

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Jackson W.

910

501

1982

1 year ago

Had somewhat of a mixed experience here. I ordered online, but when I went to pick it up they said they didn't see the order. So I had to wait an extra 15 min to get my food. I got the drunken noodles with beef which was pretty good, but I thought the portion size was kind of small for $19. I was still a bit hungry after I finished it. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 1

Adriana A.

59

142

327

1 year ago

For being Michelin-recognized, I had high hopes for their pho. It was without a doubt delicious and the meat in their pho bò was TENDER. What was missing for me was that wow factor. The broth was flavorful, but was not the best I've ever tried. The portions were also a bit smaller than other pho restaurants. I do understand they most likely have to compensate for the quality of their ingredients, because everything did taste fresh as can be. Overall delicious pho and I finished the entire thing and was left satiated and not overly full. It was challenging to find a highly rated pho joint in midtown so I would say it is worth a try if you're in the area! They also offer plenty of gluten and dairy free options which is a plus read more

OBAO - Pho B - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Tyler V.

6

50

56

5 months ago

My wife found OBAO through yelp while touring an apartment! We were hungry for lunch and love Thai food. Their service was great, very attentive and the food; made to order, came out quick, and very delicious! We'll definitely be back! read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Joe S.

36

712

41

11 months ago

Solid choice for upscale Thai. I had the duck with flat noodles. It was like a pad se ew with duck. My gripe is that the portion size was already small, and they took up space on the plate with sliced raw tomatoes. I've eaten a lot of Thai food and never have I seen raw tomatoes on a plate. Obviously these were used to take up space so I wouldn't get more actual Food. So that's kind of a disgrace. That's why one star is withheld. Nice space nothing special- the server was nice! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jocelin M.

27

52

150

1 year ago

Flavorful and fast. This place offers the perfect blend of asian cuisine in Midtown East. I visited Obao for the first time last year, and made my way back for an impromptu dinner Saturday. Yum. read more

OBAO - Coconut Cake - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Bo Ne - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 1

Cherylin L.

33

392

2449

2 years ago

Looking for a spot that perfectly blends the bold, vibrant flavors of Thai and Vietnamese cuisines? Obao is where it's at! This place serves up creative, flavor-packed dishes that showcase the best of both culinary traditions. Every bite is a journey of bold spices and aromatic herbs that will blow your mind! Modern, chic, and cozy with dim lighting, Obao's atmosphere makes it perfect for date night, dinner with friends, or just treating yourself to an amazing meal. And the food? Absolutely amazing and reasonably priced! Must-Try Dishes: * Crispy Pork Belly: A crispy, melt-in-your-mouth delight. * Pho Short Rib: Comfort food taken to the next level. * Lobster Pad Thai: A luxurious twist on a classic favorite. Add Obao to your must-visit list ASAP--you won't regret it! Tag your foodie crew and start planning your visit now. Featuring Mushroom Dumplings Crispy Pork Belly Pho Short Rib Pad See Eew Lobster Pad Thai Bruiseberry Thai Ice Tea read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Jeet G.

Elite 25

4

48

86

1 year ago

Really good food here, I got the udon noodles (sub shrimp for tofu) and it was incredibly delicious with a great portion size! Service is super friendly and on top of it! I never ran out of water and felt very catered for thought out my dinner. Has a fun ambiance and great for dinner with friends before a night out! Would definitely come back again soon! read more

OBAO - Udon Basil Noodles - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Rochelle N.

10

173

224

2 years ago

So so good!! We went on a rainy Sunday and the restaurant only had a few people there for lunch. We went with the basil noodles and the pad see ew. Both were so delicious and very fairly priced for the portions. I was impressed with the amount of shrimp and beef in both dishes. The udon was cooked perfectly and the peppers added a lot of flavor. Do not miss out on trying this place!! read more

OBAO - PAD SEE IEW (full) - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Joan S.

393

296

1212

10 months ago

I enjoyed my recent dinner here. I had the pad Thai and one of the coconut desserts which was refreshing! Portions are good. Staff was attentive. It does get a bit loud in the main dining area during peak dining hours. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Alice D.

77

148

603

8 months ago

Great place to go when the weather is chilly. Didn't have a reservation on a Saturday and was able to get seated quickly. Food came out fast and was super delicious. read more

OBAO - Duck Noodles - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Khao Soi Duck - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ray L.

158

70

150

1 year ago

This place has a great diversity of Asian dishes that can serve your different tastes depending on what you're feeling that day. My Vietnamese friends have always enjoyed the pho here, and I was pleased with the khao soi's flavor. The service is also very attentive and caring, and there's usually ample seating! read more

OBAO - Khao Soi chicken Leg Confit - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Sasha B.

313

403

2252

2 years ago

My daughter and I were touring the new East Midtown Greenway Extension and decided to and walked over to 2nd Ave to find a place to lunch. I asked a local walking her dog what places she'd recommend and she raved about this place so it was an easy decision. The space has front curbside seating that leads right into the from bar area and then the main dining which is beautifully decorated with running ants alongside wooden tables. There is back garden with seating for no more than about (5) that the workers seem to use for their lunch hour. We arrived around 1 and there was starting to get packed for the lunch hour. Within about a half an hour, just about except table inside was occupied. For appetizers we ordered from hr Vietnamese chicken wings, chicken and shrimp dumplings. We ordered (2) other small dishes: the Cashew Chilli chicken and shrimp basil fried rice. Everything was full of flavor and delicious. The portions were well sized and that allowed us to eat family style just pulling from the table to sample. We had so much leftovers to go. The next day we were more than happy to dive in again. Overall, this was a great find. The service was attentive without being intrusive or abrasive. We got a quality dining experience for the cost and the food was delicious. I will def revisit. Decor:9/10 Service: 10/10 Food: 10/10 read more

OBAO - Vietnamese Chicken Wings - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Cashew Chili Chicken - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Raspberry mojito - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

April Y.

2

124

347

2 years ago

Came for a team dinner. It's a pretty cozy joint, super lively and bustling. Food came out pretty quickly, and our server checked up on us regularly. I ordered the lobster pad thai, and it was honestly really just ok. The lobster especially fell flat, extremely bland. Portion size is definitely large, tried a good portion of the appetizers on the menus but nothing really stood out. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Aimee C.

37

80

615

2 years ago

On a packed Saturday night, definitely make a reservation! This restaurant is a good choice for the viet/thai fusion restaurant. The waiter here was extremely attentive and patient with my large party of 10. They serve food as it is done being prepared, so dishes may come in waves. The lower rating for me comes from the fact that the entrees were just not great tasting. I personally ordered the pho, and it fell a bit flat on flavor, even though the portion was quite generous for its price point. The matcha ice cream is a little overpriced, but what isn't in the city... it is truly delicious though! Their mango sticky rice is the perfect combination of tart chunks of mango, refreshing mango sorbet, and chewy sticky rice. I just wish the portion was bigger. If anything, this is a great place to grab pre-dinner drinks instead, as their signature cocktails looked spectacular! I'll be back to try them and let yall know how it goes. read more

OBAO - Khao Soi Short Rib - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - VEGETABLE DUMPLINGS - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Eggplant Tofu - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pad Thai - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Drinks menu - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pho side - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Robin T.

363

446

868

1 year ago

Wow. What a delicious meal that I had while visiting this restaurant. My friend actually learned about it from social media and it didn't disappoint at all. We shared some wings, dumplings, and spring rolls and all were delicious. I had the crab fried rice and it was phenomenal. My friend tried the popular short rib pho and said it was delicious. We went on a Saturday evening and it wasn't too busy. Service was great as well. I will be returning. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jairo T.

41

170

327

2 years ago

Came to this midtown east location for a Sunday dinner with a small group of friends. The vibe fits well for an after work dinner, group event or date night. Dimly lit, cozy atmosphere and while it seemed small at first glance, the back of the restaurant provides ample seating. Table started with Vietnamese spring roll order followed by a round of Pho bo or Pho ga. Personally had the Pho ga which was delicious. Noodles were cooked perfectly and the broth was light yet flavorful. Large piece of chicken included, great dish for the hungry. Service was speedy and friendly. Would definitely recommend. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Christian C.

6

268

398

2 years ago

Came here for a late lunch on a Saturday with 6 friends and we were sat immediately. The restaurant is pretty big. The food was nothing too special, I got the beef pad see ew. I tried my friend's pad Thai and thought the noodles were too sweet and soggy. read more

OBAO - Pad See Iew - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Dan R.

2768

4215

71456

3 years ago

"All of my love, all of my kissing You don't know what you've been a-missing Oh boy, when you're with me Oh boy, the world can see That you, were meant, for me" (Buddy Holly) Three of us had a fantastic lunch at OBAO. When we walked in, just a few tables were occupied, but when we walked the place was jam packed. I saw a lot of young Asians in there, so this must be a hip place for the young professionals in the neighborhood. Our lunch orders were Spare Ribs with Honey Tamarind Glaze ($12) - "6 hrs. braised pork spareribs tossed with honey tamarind glaze served with Vietnamese table salad", Pad Thai with Shrimp ($18) - " stir-fried thin rice noodles with shrimps, bean sprouts, chives, and crushed peanuts topped with a poached egg", and Vietnamese Crispy Pork Belly ($16) - "Served with lettuce wrapping, pickled carrot & daikon, sweet soy and spicy green dipping sauce." The Pork Belly was my order and I couldn't have been happier with it. First of all, it was a pretty good sized order and there was enough ingredients on the serving dish that I must have made 5 delicious lettuce wraps. The pork belly was fantastic, crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. And those dipping sauces (especially the spicy green one) really complemented everything . The food and service were great (our water glasses were refilled twice.) Overall, this was a very enjoyable visit and consumer experience. read more

OBAO - Tamarind fried ribs - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - lettuce wraps with pork belly - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 10

Thanks 1

Love this 8

Oh no 0

Hang T.

445

1120

3367

3 years ago

Some of the dishes here (especially the Thai ones) are better than any I've had in California. It's amazing. So good that my picky husband wanted to come back for a second time on our trip to NYC. We ordered the following: Bo luc lac (shaking beef) Basil fried rice with shrimp Papaya salad Pad see lew with beef (my favorite) Pho Bo (100 authentic) EVERYTHING and I mean everything was authentic and bursting with flavor. It's insane how much depth the flavors were. Multidimensional. I was very very satisfied with the meal. I kind of wish we ordered more because we finished everything. The drinks were also very delicious and not overpowering. The restaurant is narrow so it might be a little cramped if you have a group bigger than six. It's nice and dark, yet you can talk at a normal volume without disturbing others. Good for kids as well. Service was fast and food came out amazingly quick. I had Le Bernardin this week too, but I'd pick this place over it any day of the week. read more

OBAO - Basil fried rice - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Bo luc lac - shaking beef - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Flunk flink - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Papaya salad - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pad see lwe - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Pho bo (beef pho) - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Andy N.

1115

2659

7134

3 years ago

Pretty disappointed with my experience at OBAO and it wasn't even due to the flavor or quality of the food, which was in fact really good. I initially ordered a vegan pad see-ew ($18) with tofu and vegetables which was also advertised as such on their menu. When my food came, I took a bite and realized that they had incorporated egg into my dish. I reached out to the server to point out this mistake and they didn't seem to have the best reception to my concern. There wasn't any sense of an apology when she took my dish away to replace it with what I ordered. Five minutes later, the new dish arrived and it was significantly smaller than my original dish. It went from four or so pieces of tofu to... just one. Just take a look at my photos and see for yourself. For the hefty price, I really wanted to like the place. The ambiance was good and the menu options were fine, but the service and food didn't meet my expectations, even though my dish ended up being pretty tasty in the end. read more

OBAO - My "vegan" pad see-ew cooked with egg... - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - My actual vegan pad see-ew. See the difference in size? - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Steph W.

534

1017

2235

3 years ago

Atmosphere (5/5): The front of the establishment is a long bar seating that faces the kitchen. The back opens up to a dining room with plenty of seating. The lighting is on the dimmer side. Service (5/5): I was seated almost right away. The wait staff was very friendly and checked in on us often. Food Short Ribs Massaman Curry (5/5): Wow, the broth was so rich and flavorful that I could just have it straight. The short rib was extremely tender where the meat fell right off the bone! It also wasn't overcooked that there was any toughness or loss in moisture. Just all around delicious. The sweet potatoes soaked in the soup and then peanuts provided a nice texture crunch to the bite. I definitely plan on coming back again. read more

OBAO - Ice cream - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

OBAO - Short Ribs Massaman Curry - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ellen C.

421

679

1325

3 years ago

We came to the restaurant on a Sunday evening. It was pretty empty at the time we were seated in the back in a booth the back was cutely decorated with a lot of flowers. For food, we order the papaya salad as an appetizer followed by drunken noodles, chicken, green curry, and pho. We also got a Thai iced tea. The food came out super quickly. The papaya salad almost came out immediately. The drunken noodles were completely mild (I know this can vary at different Thai spots). The green curry contained a variety of different ingredients and came with a side of rice. Not going to lie, I came to this dinner already pretty full but the portions felt pretty big. The food wasn't bad but also nothing wow. There are definitely better Thai spots in the city. read more

OBAO - Drunken Noodles, Papaya Salad, Chicken Green Curry - Asian Fusion Near Me - New York, New York

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Page 1 of 33

See more reviews

More info about OBAO

222 E 53rd St
New York, NY 10022
Midtown East
Directions
(212) 308-5588
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
http://www.obaony.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does OBAO open?

OBAO opens at 11:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does OBAO close?

OBAO closes at 10:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does OBAO take Bitcoin?

No, OBAO does not take Bitcoin.

Does OBAO take credit cards?

Yes, OBAO takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does OBAO have catering options?

Yes, OBAO does have catering options.

Does OBAO have a drive thru?

No, OBAO does not have a drive thru.

Does OBAO have a happy hour?

Yes, OBAO has a happy hour.

Does OBAO serve alcohol?

Yes, OBAO serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does OBAO have TVs?

No, OBAO does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does OBAO have bike parking?

Yes, OBAO has bike parking.

Does OBAO have outdoor seating?

Yes, OBAO has outdoor seating options.

Does OBAO have parking?

Yes, OBAO has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is OBAO wheelchair accessible?

Yes, OBAO is wheelchair accessible.

Does OBAO have free WiFi?

No, OBAO does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

OBAO bridges the gap from the streets of Southeast Asia to the streets of New York City, bringing you combinations of various Thai and Vietnamese comfort foods with our unique OBAO twist. Born out of the tradition of local street markets in Southeast Asia, OBAO celebrates the comfort food of Thailand and Vietnam, which have become respected cuisines in the global culinary arena. These comfort foods transcend all social barrier and bridge the gap between all people through the love of food. Taking traditional dishes from Southeast Asia like Pad Thai and Pho noodles, we add a touch of luxury and elegance without ever compromising authenticity. We use only the highest quality ingredients to bring you rich, delicious flavors. Our space is elegant and inviting, the perfect spot for an intimate gathering of friends or a romantic date. We invite you to join us to experience the harmony of flavors at OBAO.

History

Established in 2009.

Founded in New York City by cousins Chai and Ace in 2009, OBAO is the realization of their dream to create delicious harmony between the comfort foods of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. Our mission is to provide our unique blend of authentic Thai and Vietnamese cuisine in a warm, elegant environment. With over ten years of success, we look forward to adding you to our long history of happy customers.

Meet the Business Owner: Chai and Ace O.

Cousins Chai and Ace grew up in Thai families with deep roots to their native homeland, traditions and foods. After multiple trips to Thailand, they visited Vietnam, where they were introduced to a wide array of Vietnamese dishes. New variations of noodles, dumplings and rice dishes were introduced with different broths and spice combinations, foreign to both Chai and Ace. Where initially they only saw the difference between Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, they envisioned a harmony between the two. OBAO is the realization of this dream, where the diversity of the two culture come together to strike an amazing balance. Chai and Ace enjoy being able to serve the public at OBAO, where their unique blend of Thai and Vietnamese flavors is the driving force of the business. Chai and Ace hope to provide you such a positive experience you'll remember to return to OBAO when you're in need of a great meal.

More Info

Health Score

OBAO Reviews in Other Languages

You might also consider

Verify this business for free

People searched for Asian Fusion 14,958 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

Verify this business

Explore benefits

Obao

Wow, every dish so good. Thought it would be less specialized bc they serve both Thai and…read moreVietnamese dishes but flavors were very clean and strong. - Drunken noodles: not too greasy, might be the best drunken noodles I've had. Medium spice was not spicy at all for us. - Duck curry: a bit small on the portions but the curry is magical. Was scraping this plate clean. - Bo luc lac: star dish for sure. Beef melts on your tongue and the marinade is slightly sweet and smoky. - Summer rolls: small portions but the flavor is there. Super refreshing and special bc they pickle the vegetables inside. - Crispy pork belly: reminds me of the crispy pork I had in Vietnam. Really well done, pairs well with the lettuce and herbs. That green sauce is so addicting. - Papaya salad: super refreshing, nice fish sauce. - Crab fried rice: reminds me of the din tai fung fried rice bc of how clean the flavor is. Great dim ambiance for a date or dinner out. Definitely coming back soon.

So yum!!!! Top 3 thai spots for me…read more Food- Classic order of Pad Thai & Drunken Noodles. The pad thai noodles are a big thinner than i've had before but that didn't bother me, it has such great flavor too. I recommend ordering it spicy, it's the perfect heat if you're looking for that kick but don't add it if you can't handle spice. The drunken noodles are not spicy in my opinion but i can handle a bit of heat. Loved the flavor and the noodles had the right texture, could've done without the huge chunks of tomato but great otherwise. The summer rolls were good, hard to mess those up. We also got a free mango salad with the order and that was so fresh and delicious. We just popped in for pick up but the hostess was really nice and attentive as soon as we walked in. It looked to be a nice casual spot, could be good for dinner with friends or date night.

See all

Elephant Ear Thai Restaurant

4.2

(242 reviews)

1.2 mi

Delicious food and great service. Highly recommend!! M was a great server. The atmosphere was…read moreamazing!

Location: 690 9th Ave, New York, NY 10036…read more Customer service: just regular nothing grand. Ambiance: few seating options. A little spacious and aesthetically pleasing to the eyes. Food: Heres what I've tried. Fried chicken wings with lemongrass sauce--- Topped with cilantro, Thai ginger chips, and fresh mint leaves--so flavorful it goes straight to the bones. Perfectly sized, not too big or too small. OMG, it was really, really good. The aroma alone is already mouthwatering, and the umami is just next level. Grilled jumbo tiger shrimp (18 for 2 pcs)-- A bit firm for my liking--I felt they were slightly overcooked--but still very savory and rich in flavor. Mango Salad--- A refreshing twist on the usual mango salad. It has avocado, which makes it stand out, and it's less saucy than most versions. A great, clean, and balanced salad I'd definitely order again.

See all

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

Memo's a great server! When my friend and I checked in to the bar, he told us he will be right with…read moreus, as we checked the menu. Totally different from the Gyu Kaku in Downtown, where the server there didn't acknowledge us. Just have to say it as it is. We left that spot to come to this one. Memo did not disappoint with the service, he was awesome. Served us good strong drinks, and got us our order promptly.

I Occasionally Come To This Restaurant To Visit With A Very Special Friend and Apple Of My Heart!!…read moreWe ALWAYS Get A Great Opportunity To Catch Up Over Splendid Food, Awesome Atmosphere and Fabulous Service from the moment we walk in to the moment we walk out!! Easily The BEST & FAVORITE Restaurant To Visit!!

See all

Emperor Dumpling

4.0

(32 reviews)

1.1 mi

Great counter service dumplings, etc. open late. The pan-fried dumplings (aka potstickers) hit the…read morespot on way back to our hotel after the show. Quick, reasonably priced and tasty.

Really sweet counter person; delicious chicken/broccoli; especially delicious spicy chicken! (I'm…read morenot even a fan of sexism peppercorn, but I really loved this dish!)

The seating area, there's an upstairs too

Green Pepper Steak Over Rice and carrots

See all

53 NYC

My guests and I had a marvelous evening at this beautiful restaurant. Our server-recommended food…read moreselections were delicious, exquisitely prepared and beautifully presented. Our drinks and desserts were equally outstanding. Most importantly, the management team and service staff provided us with impressive and exemplary hospitality and service. For the three of us, our special night at 53 NYC was a wonderful dining experience that we will long appreciate, remember and cherish.

Stopped by on a Friday night for dinner with my best friend. The place itself is gorgeous, moody,…read moreand very architecturally pleasing. To start, we had the lychee martinis. It's not your typical lychee martini. It has Aperol and pineapple, which gives it a great flavor. My only note is that I wish it were a bit stronger. For appetizers we had the yellowtail, which is a must get. It was delicious. We also had the lobster spring rolls, another great dish, and the crispy wontons, which were good but not my favorite compared to everything else. For our entrée we got the beef tenderloin, another must get. It was amazing, super tender, and melts in your mouth. We had it with the fried rice, which was solid. For dessert we had the ice cream sandwich, which was different in the best way and extremely delicious. It wasn't too sweet and the cone "buns" were perfection. Overall, this place is gorgeous and the food matches. I would definitely return. The service was also great, the perfect balance of letting you do your own thing and truly enjoy your evening while still checking in. It is pricey. We each paid $184 including tip, but it's definitely worth it for a special occasion or to spoil yourself a bit.

Eel Club with foie gras and cherry - outstanding! (02/23/25)

Bar area

See all

Royal shumai

wagamama - midtown

The food and the service was soo good ! would definitely love to come again. However, I don't think…read moreI will be back until they fix the air-conditioning. It's really hard to enjoy your food and your company when you're sweating as if you just ran a 5K run. If you are the type of person that likes to eat outdoors and not have air-conditioning this is the place for the food is really really good and the service is excellent.

I loved this place. Interesting menu...we got several baos and the wagyu sliders, and they were…read moreabsolutely delicious. They were crowded, so we sat at the bar, where we got very fast service. I can't wait to come back.

106. korean chicken wings

Mixed mushroom/panko eggplant bao and Korean fried chicken bao

See all

Chili margarita

Brooklyn Chop House Time Square

Came here for a family dinner and it did not disappoint! The restaurant itself used to be a Buffalo…read moreWild Wings so it still had that kind of layers setting but it was dark and moody. We ordered a ton of food! Multiple steaks and a whole snapper. The snapper was THE BEST thing we ate by far. The service was decent, nothing to really write home about honestly. And probably the reason they get 4 stars. The tip was also included as our party was 6 people

Excellent experience from start to finish!…read more We were a little early for our reservation. We were seated right away. We saw a Broadway show at the theatre next door. Received a 10% discount. Everything was wonderful! - our waitress was wonderful & attentive. I ordered a Lychee Martini- my absolute favorite! Delicious We ordered a variety of items Glazed Spare Ribs , chicken satay, lamb chops, lobster fried rice & spring rolls. EVERYTHING was delicious! We ordered a second round of the Chicken Satay I highly recommend this place! We'll be back!

Lychee Martini with Lychee Fruit

Seating area

Birthday Cake

See all

88 Pocha

4.7

(18 reviews)

1.4 mi

The food is excellent and fantastic service. I will be coming back always !!!! I love it here so…read moremuch !!!!! Can't beat this place. Shoutout to Adonis my favorite guy !!!! If I could give 27 stars I would !!!!

Great food and really attentive staff! The kimchi pancake, galbi, and beef stew were all really…read moregood. $8 for beer and like $14 for soju which is quite reasonable, would definitely go back!

See all

Sei Less

3.9

(461 reviews)

1.1 mi

Sei Less had been on my NYC dining list for a while because I always hear the rapper Fabolous rave…read moreabout it, so I had to see what the hype was about. Ironically, Fabolous and Maino ended up dining there the same night, I was just missing Jim Jones and Dave East! Maino was generous to take a picture with my friend I started with the French Kiss cocktail, and it definitely lived up to its name, it was strong in the best way. The lobster spoon, lobster mai sui, bok choy, and fried rice were all delicious, with every dish well-seasoned and flavorful. Service was a little on the slower side, but the food, atmosphere, and unexpected celebrity sightings made up for it. If you're looking for a trendy NYC spot with great food and a lively vibe, Sei Less is worth the visit.

I had a great experience at Sei Less! We were seated immediately, and our server checked on us…read morefrequently to make sure everything was perfect, which it was. We ordered the chicken satay, beef, shrimp, broccoli, rice, and salad. Everything was delicious, and the food came out quickly. The chicken satay especially stood out. It reminded me of Philippe Chow's chicken satay, which is a huge compliment. Between the attentive service, fast kitchen, and flavorful food, this was an excellent dining experience. I'll definitely be back!

Bao bund

See all

Cognac Punch

Yumpling

I got the crispy chicken bowl on my lunch break and it was delicious! The service was great even…read moreduring the lunch rush. I messed up my order and they were able to take the time to fix it for me.

Great food and service! Love to come back here…read moreNoodles and dumplings at affordable price

Yumpling

See all

Counter

Adel's Famous Halal Food

We got the mixed platter - check and lamb with hot sauce on the side!…read more The line for pick up order was only 5 people vs 25+ people trying to order! The Pita bread that comes was not good (tasted like it was baked in caked greasy pan) BUT the FOOD WAS SO GOOD!!! Loved all the seasoning of the meats that were tender with yellow rice. Hot sauce was actually hot and very flavorful!

This outside truck spot can definitely have long lines and wait times. I luckily came right when it…read moreopened but I still waited around 15 minutes. I definitely recommend coming here right when it opens. For the food itself, I got the Mix Platter (Lamb and chicken) which was delicious and flavorful. It had a spicy kick, but it was still enjoyable. The plate was definitely loaded and I recommend getting it with the spicy rice. I definitely think it's worth the hype and would come again.

Combo (chicken and lamb) over rice and fries was well seasoned. Would recommend dranks while waiting with friends in line hehe!

Mix Platter

See all

Chicken over Rice Platter and Lamb Over Rice

L’industrie Pizzeria

This place can definitely get busy and it can be hard to get seating. There's also a standing area…read moreinside. Staff was friendly and the food didn't take too long to come out. I got the Fig and Bacon Pizza and Burrata Slice which were delicious and flavorful. It tasted high-quality and even the crust was enjoyable. The fig jam and bacon pizza had a good sweetness. This place was probably one of my favorite pizza spots if not my favorite pizza spot I tried in New York.

This was so good in general. The fig jam bacon was good but I think quattro in Boston is better…read moresince they use real figs instead of jam. The burrata was good and the tomato sauce balanced out the creaminess of the burrata well. The pistachio tres lèches was chefs kiss. It was not too sweet but tasted like pistachio and so good. There was a line but it moved pretty fast! We went at peak lunch time (1 pm) and the wait was around 20 mins. The interior was pretty as well

IG: @nom.noms.only | fig jam & tartufo

Open kitchen interior

Burrata / Pepperoni

See all

Mama's Too

Realllyyyyyy gooood!!! Different style slice than the regular NYC style. I really enjoyed the…read morethickness, crispness, and unique flavors!! Both pizza slices were fire. The angry nonna pepperoni and hot honey. The Bufalina had blue cheese and chicken, it was really good but I'm not a huge fan of blue cheese. Not many seats inside, we stood and eat. The service was fairly quick and kind. We ordered: Angry Nonna 5/5 Bufalina 4/5 (I'm not a fan of blue cheese) Overall, I highly recommend trying their pizzas out. Especially if you love a thick slice. I was full off one slice of pizza. The pizza was around $7 per slice, but like I said, one slice is enough so I feel it was worth the price. I'll definitely come back!!!

So, first off, the place is 98% take out. 2 sets of table/chair inside. Nothing more. So you'd…read morebetter be ready to take out. Pizzas are their main deal and I believe there are sandwiches too! We ordered pizzas and boy, they were good. Not sure if this is Detroit style, but it is pan pizza. Tasty! Overall a good cut of pie!

See all

Golden Diner

We did a walk up on a Friday morning and got there around 10:30, which gave us a 90 min wait. We…read morewere fine to wait, and walked around china town to kill time. You will get a text when the table is ready with 10 min to get there. It is a very small diner, with a cool vibe. You're there for the food, nothing fancy. The staff were very kind, and quick with our requests. We came for the pancakes, and they were absolutely worth the hype. Hands down the BEST pancakes we've ever had in life. 1 plate comes with 2 pancakes and are enough to share. But not too much if you're only getting pancakes for a solo serving, you'll be able to finish. We shared the pancakes and also got a breakfast sandwich.

I've been wanting to try this place out since 2021, but never got the chance. I got here on Monday…read moremorning at around 11:00 am to put my name down for a table of 2 and there was already an hour and 45 minute wait. After running a couple of errands while waiting for the table to be ready, we were seated outside at the patio after an hour and 45 minutes. We ordered the famous honey butter pancakes, the korean wings, and the breakfast sandwich with hash brown, scrambled eggs, and sausage. The honey butter pancakes were pretty good but kinda drenched in the butter that made it hard to finish. The korean wings were also alright but the batter to me was kinda thick and heavy and lacked crispiness. The best item we ordered was the breakfast sandwich with hashbrown, scrambled eggs, and sausage. I think the eggs are cooked with cheese, and as someone who typically does not eat cheese, I didn't mind it. I don't know if I'll be back again - I think the concept of an asian twist on the classic diner does sound intriguing but difficult to execute. I also wasn't a big fan of the wait time. If you typically like heavier, diner food then this spot might be the place for you!

Smaller than I thought. Now I know why there is always such a long wait.

Korean Fried Chicken Wings

See all

Honey Butter Pancakes

Szechuan Mountain House

The food was delicious and so FAST! Our waiter Frankie was so nice! Will definitely be coming back!…read moreThe vibe inside was relaxing and the seats were comfortable.

We had a lovely birthday dinner here. The Szechuan fried noodles, and the stir-fried cabbage were…read moremy favorite, but everything was so good. The mapo tofu, green beans, twice cooked pork, and spicy (lazi) chicken were very flavorful. I thought the mala levels were just right, but it may be on a bit on the lighter side compared to authentic. The lamb spine came in a delicious broth, but it was a bit hard eating the lamb from the bone for not a lot of meat. The house steamed fish was also amazing. They don't take online reservations for groups over 5, so we called to make one for our group of 6. It was pretty busy Friday night, so would recommend. The service was great; they drew the cutest card when they found out it was my brother's birthday and let us bring a cake. And they also offered hair ties to the people with long hair. You order through an iPad which has a beautiful menu.

Swing Pork Belly - IG @bougiefoodieboi

Mapo Ma-Po Tofu 麻婆豆腐

See all

Mala prawn

Very Fresh Noodles

Love this place and go here every time I'm in Chelsea Market! The service is quick, price is…read moredecent, and their dishes are pretty simple. There was one time I got the dry spicy beef noodles and the beef came kind of uncooked. We sent it back and they were able to quickly remake it for us. Hasn't ever happened again though. Not too much seating available here, but if you walk around the market, there are other places you could probably find seats.

Beef is tender and thickly sliced. Very generous quantity in a bowl…read more Soup is full of flavors. I'm not a big fan of knife cut long noodles. It is too wide and thick for my liking - so nothing against this place. It's just my preference.

Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup

See all

These both weren't mine....but I did eat both.

Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

229 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Keo S.

1

55

45

2 years ago

Walking into OBAO Noodles & BBQ, one expects a culinary journey bridging the bustling streets of Southeast Asia with the vibrant pulse of New York City. Their mission: to elevate traditional Thai and Vietnamese comfort foods with a touch of luxury and elegance, all while preserving authenticity. However, the Pho Ga served here tells a different story. The chicken, seemingly dyed with turmeric for color, lacks any depth of flavor--an unworthy homage to the rich traditions it aims to represent. The broth, reminiscent of diluted sugar water with a mere whisper of anise, fails to deliver the robust, aromatic experience that defines a true bowl of pho. Attempts to salvage the dish with condiments were met with further disappointment. The provided sauces, a bootleg sweet sriracha and an egg roll dip, did little to elevate the experience. It's as if the soul of Vietnamese cuisine was lost in translation, leaving one to wonder if the ancestors are stirring in their graves. In a city where culinary excellence is the norm, OBAO's Pho Ga doesn't just miss the mark--it doesn't even come close. It's a stark reminder that while innovation has its place, it should never come at the expense of authenticity and flavor. A return to the drawing board is not just recommended; it's essential. read more

Tuey P.

14

1

3

7 years ago

OBAO is delicious, well-located, well-decorated with excellent service. I was very hungry after walking 17 blocks from the met bruer so I was looking for a place for dinner. Then I found OBAO and decided to give a try. That's my best decision! I was there at 6 pm. It was crowded but the waitress was very very nice. Luckily,I got the table very fast but what faster is the food. There are open kitchen so I can see all the cooking process. The kitchen, the restaurant and restroom area are very clean. Also, the decoration is very cozy and songs are very good combination. Food arrived after I was ordered just 10 minutes. I ordered pad thai and my girlfriend ordered luksa. Pad thai is Thai style fried noodle with shrimp and luksa is Malaysian noodle with coconut-base soup with shrimp and pork belly. And they was really delicious! Shrimp was fresh. Pork belly was soft. Soup was good-taste. Noodle is good-taste also.I couldn't believe they cook all of these in just 10 minutes. I ordered chocolate forest and winter yuzu for dessert. They were good and very big plate, too. The restaurant is just 2-3 minutes walk to subway. So it is very convenient. HIGHLY RECOMMEND read more

Sunny S.

146

44

7

12 years ago

TIPS: 1) Recommend the stir-fried noodle dishes, grilled pork & shrimp vermicelli, crispy pork and sticky black rice dessert (AMAZING). 2) On weekdays, make sure to come before 6:30 and grab that $16 Sapporo pitcher + sake, or $11 appetizer + entrée + soda, OR BOTH! 3) In the winter times, try to grab seats in the back to avoid the draft. This place is categorized as Vietnamese, Thai, and they also serve some Korean dishes. So it's Asian fusion? Usually when I think of Asian fusion, I think of dishes that, to borrow Ron Swanson's words, half-a$$ing two things rather than whole-a$$ing one thing - never good. But not this place! It surprisingly does Asian fusion very well. I think it's due to the fact that they mingle different Asian cuisines and not add in western influences. Though I have to deduct one star because there are some misses - I tried Bangkok noodle last time and the chicken pieces were huge and dry; my boyfriend's basil fried rice was a bit moister than what we hoped for. But overall, solid quality. Delicious food, friendly staff, and proximity to the subways - I'm a fan! Will return, and return, and return in the future read more

Paula G.

0

1

0

7 months ago

I went in for lunch with my service animal and was refused service by the manager before I was even allowed to sit down. The manager demanded I show a certification for my service animal. This was humiliating. There is no legal certification required for service animals in the U.S. under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). I tried to calmly explain this, but it didn't matter. I was still turned away. My service animal was quiet, well-behaved, and under full control. There was absolutely no valid reason to deny me service. Being stopped at the door and questioned about my disability in front of others made me feel singled out, discriminated against, and deeply embarrassed. What made this worse is that this wasn't a confused host or server, but the manager who made the decision. That means this wasn't a misunderstanding, but a choice. No one should be made to feel unwelcome or less than because they rely on a service animal. This experience was demeaning and completely avoidable. I'm sharing this so others are aware and in the hope that OBAO Midtown takes responsibility and educates their management and staff on ADA compliance. read more

Ajay N.

0

33

117

1 month ago

Great team lunch spot -- just skip the crab fried rice Came here with the team for a weekday lunch at the Midtown East location (222 E 53rd St). Quick note: if ambience is your priority, the Midtown West location has a better vibe -- but the food is the same, and that's what really matters. The pho is the star of the show. You can tell it's been simmered for hours -- the broth is deeply rich and the meat is fall-apart tender. Absolutely worth ordering. The pork chops are another solid go-to; well-seasoned, satisfying, and a crowd-pleaser for good reason. I branched out today and tried the crab fried rice, which I'd skip next time. It was decent but underwhelming -- not much crab to speak of, and nothing that stood out from a regular fried rice. Service was attentive and prompt, which you really appreciate when dining with a group. Overall a reliable choice for a team lunch in Midtown -- just stick to the menu highlights and you won't be disappointed. read more

Helly K.

104

298

173

5 years ago

Came here with a group of friends. They were pretty strict w/reservations. Everyone must be present to be seated - I really didn't think it was necessary, since the place was virtually empty. I can't eat too much of what's usually offered for Thai. I ordered the papaya salad and while it wasn't spicy while I was eating it, it hit me on the next dish. If you can't handle spicy, tell them you want it mild. It was good and fresh. I ordered the mushroom dumplings and also shrimp dumplings. The portions are small (only 4 pieces), so you might not want to share :) I really wanted the salmon appetizer, but it wasn't available for some reason, so that was disappointing. If you're a true carnivore, this place will delight you - plenty of meat dishes! read more

Jingchen L.

0

1

3

7 years ago

pretty good！！ all the things good！love the food especially the kimchi fries ！This winter, a bowl of warm soup powder, fragrant fried noodles, or delicious noodles, or even a crisp bread stuffing refreshing vietnamese sandwich,as long as he likes it, it's the best.~ the dishes in this restaurant focus on the traditional soup powder, fried powder, dry noodles, and vietnamese sandwiches, but the essence of thai and vietnamese cuisine has been discovered.The taste is fresh but not bland, seemingly simple noodles and sandwiches to eat up but found rich ingredients, taste is definitely better than with seasoning powder with the store noodles.The seemingly simple dish is really good work, like a simple good to a person, is true love. read more

Chandane H.

6

3

1 year ago

My boyfriend and I decided to try this restaurant for the first time based on its great Yelp reviews, but unfortunately, my experience was disappointing. I ordered the Bò Lúc Lắc New Zealand Beef ($28), but they didn't even ask how I wanted it cooked. When it arrived, the beef was extremely overcooked--almost burnt--and so tough that it felt like chewing rubber. I brought this to the server's attention, and she called the manager over. When the manager asked how I preferred my beef, I requested medium. A few minutes later, they brought me a plate of completely raw beef, with visible blood. It was inedible. Overall, this was an awful experience, and I won't be returning. I expected much better, especially at this price read more

X X.

24

40

0

13 years ago

If you are craving for an authentic bowl of Pho Bo or Bun Bo Hue, do not order from here! I don't suggest coming here during the summer, their AC or central air sucks. Fried Tofu with fish sauce or soy sauce is decent. Their Pad Thai could be better. I wish I could say they make the best Pad Thai I've ever had, but my shrimp were overcooked and dry. Does not taste fresh, so I can't say I enjoyed the Pad Thai. I am glad that their Pad Thai is not as "diabetically" sweet as candy like most NYC Thai restaurants. Spicy Lemongrass Kalbi was too salty. If they cut down the salt, this is probably their best dish. Served me flat soda but "Good Morning Vietnam" was good! read more

Jennie W.

0

1

0

15 years ago

I work right across the street from Obao but was always hesitant to go, because there is usually a wait for a table. Last week I decided to see what all the fuss is about. I waited in what seemed to be a long line but was seated in about Five minutes. The friendly wait staff escorted me to the back room and within minutes the waitress approached me ready to take my order: I picked the Pad kee Mao, know else where as the drunken noodle. The food came quickly and I was immersed in the bundles of flavor that inhibit this delicious noodle dish, made of flat rice noodles, chicken, peppers, etc. I paid and was on my way. read more

Chris G.

0

8

3

7 years ago

I don't like giving out 5 star ratings... no place is perfect and I haven't tried EVERY place to be able to say that a place is "as good as it gets!". Having said that... I gotta give it to Obao! This place was here for at least of couple of years before I deigned to try it... and I'm pissed at myself for not coming here sooner! in a word.... FRESH!!.... FRESH FRESH FRESH!! Every dish is filled with FRESH veggies.. crisp, flavorful, cooked to perfection! It's a mouth watering treat to eat this food and I hope they are around for many, many years to come. PLEASEEEE, DON'T CHANGE! read more

Jason N.

0

1

7 years ago

I was just strolling around Manhattan doing some sight seeing and decided that I wanted some grub. And what better place to settle down and eat some dinner at Obao! The pho served here is phenomenal. Compared to the pho served at 8th Avenue or Chinatown, the pho here is worlds apart. The dish is simple, but you can tell that it was handled with delicate care, because the broth was nothing like I tasted before. The broth is balanced, and therefore worth your time. I seriously recommend this place to anyone looking for a good pho place! read more

Gary P.

0

3

0

3 years ago

I was disappointed with my experience at Obao in New York. The restaurant had a strange odor. The staff was also unfriendly and showed no signs of hospitality. The food was mediocre at best and lacked any unique flavor or seasoning. I ordered noodles and had to wait an incredibly long time for it to arrive, only to find that the noodles were tough and unpleasant to eat. To top it off, the prices were very high for the quality of food and service. Overall, I would not recommend this restaurant. read more

Marni B.

1

7

0

12 years ago

The service was lovely, but the food was mediocre at best. 3 out of the 4 guests at our table received our entrees and one of us had to wait about 20 min before he received his. Everyone else at the table had finished their meal by the time my husbands fish came. When it did finally come, part of the whole fish was raw! The wait staff was very apologetic and charged us half price for the fish, which was appropriate. I must say that I don't think I will ever return. Not worth it. read more

Amy S.

98

6

21

8 years ago

Very impressed!!! We decided to give this place a try when we were in New York and we were not disappointed at all When we went inside the restaurant was fun and cozy We order the pad thai and pad see ew -Nice presentation in a metallic pan -It wasn't a flavor I usually get in Thai places in my city but It was so flavorful and delicious ! I'm planing on coming back again next time when we are in New York to try more of their items Good Job! OBAO read more

Anji C.

2

3

0

12 years ago

i was there last night with bff.this is a first time here as heard abt this place from my friend.i had 2 dollars beer wow it's a good deal. i had dumpling , spare rib to start..it's so yummy and my main course was Clay pot catfish, a little bit salty but it's good if you have it with a bite of white rice that come with. my friend got salt and pepper shrimp.forgot to take a photo but ll try something else next time. service is good though. ll be back!! read more

Sy K.

0

1

0

7 years ago

As far as consistent, comfortable, and good quality Thai/Vietnamese food goes in Midtown, there is probably no better place than OBAO. The interior is clean, stylish, and comfortable, and the food is reliably good. Though it is a Thai restaurant, they serve better than average pho. Portion sizes and pricing are fair, and several of their beef dishes are with grass-fed beef, which is commendable. All in all, a perfect restaurant for the area. read more

KhunJah D.

43

3

2

7 years ago

I was walking by and saw happy hour sign so i stop and tried the cocktail with another friend. I asked some questions to the server. She was very helpful. I ordered Flunk Flink just $10. It taste like lychee and pine apple martini it was awesome though. And also i ordered couples appetizers fresh shrimp rolls and papaya salad. And Pho for my meal. It was yummy and so worth it to stop by after long day working! read more

Selena H.

0

2

0

7 years ago

I love Obao! Great service, clean space, fast and delicious Thai food! I've tried multiple dishes and am always pleased. Dumplings are great for appetizers and I love Pho Gha soup or curry on a cold day! Had a great experience with June as a my bar tender and the others are great as well. I have also enjoyed take out from here and everything always arrives hot and packaged well! Definitely recommend. read more

Danny G.

0

5

0

12 years ago

Very unassuming, chill place. Low lit, candles, but very casual. Great noodles, soups and fun specialty drinks. I also like their dumpling apps and midweek drink specials. I've spent many a night there and will keep returning. You get a good amount of food for the price. It's run with the efficiency of a Chinese take out place, but it's really a Thai and Vietnamese joint. Cool neighborhood hang. read more

See more unrecommended reviews

OBAO - asianfusion - Updated July 2026

People who viewed OBAO also viewed

Cha Pa's Noodles And Grill

3.7

(826 reviews)

I recently tried Cha Pa's before seeing a Broadway show and later found out that it's part of a…read moregroup of sister restaurants around NYC that operate under different names. They're especially known for their pho, but I wasn't in the mood for soup that day, so I decided to order something different. I ordered the grilled lemongrass chicken since I had already eaten a pretty big lunch earlier in the day. The chicken was good and it was great to eat if you want something light. The staff was friendly and our food came out pretty quickly. We were able to finish our meal in about 50 minutes from sitting, ordering,eating, and paying. This was perfect since we had a show to catch right afterwards. If you're looking for a Vietnamese spot in the Theatre District, especially if you're short on time, this is place is for you.

Stopped in for a quick lunch, while my wife was shopping. Cute little place with a great menu…read morevariety. Prices were reasonable and the service was great. The food looked great. I optioned for the Classic rare steak pho. I eat Pho in California, so am spoiled with all the great Pho restaurants in Southern California. I recommend this place.

Wondee Siam

4.1

(1.3k reviews)

Exceptional thai food. Everything was super tasty and I loved that they had some more unique items…read moreon the menu. I've never seen raw seafood on a thai menu and it was in the papaya salad and I loved it. The raw shrimp and crab were high quality and super delicious. The fried branzino was very delicious and crispy and the sauce was great. The duck curry was good as well. The curry puffs are good but not stand out. My least favorite item. Thai coffee pretty sweet. I would definitely come again. A little salty and $$ but super delicious.

Wondee Siam is a busy Thai storefront with music that was unfortunately just loud enough to notice…read morethe entire meal and wonder if someone could turn it down a touch. The menu is extensive, but has photos to help you choose a meal if you are unfamiliar with any option. Expect basic Thai offerings with ado is on presentation for each dish.

Sukhumvit 51

4.1

(871 reviews)

A new favorite! The place we were planning to go was full and noisy, so instead we wandered around…read moreuntil, on a whim, we stepped into Sukhumvit 51. It was quiet, cool, and pleasant. Just what we needed in a busy city like NYC. But best of all was the food. I got Tofu Pad Thai (with extra peanuts) and it was a feast. We came back the next week to have it again, that's how good it was. We still talk about it! When you're walking down 51st street, keep a sharp eye out for this place; its tiny but its a gem.

I had high hopes for this spot given all the ratings and reviews, but unfortunately it fell a…read morelittle short. I got lunch delivery and got a lunch special, which was their drunken noodles with a choice of appetizer (I got spring rolls). Spring rolls were solid, but the drunken noodles were very oily and lacked any flavor. I wonder if it wasn't mixed enough and the sauce was at the bottom, but really didn't have any spice. I would try this spot again maybe with another dish to give it another go

Little Thai Kitchen

3.5

(455 reviews)

Came here on a Friday evening with a group of 6, and the environment was lively. The staff were…read morevery attentive and nice and even let us know of the special World Cup promo they had going on. I ordered the Nuer Yang (marinated ribeye), which had good flavors. However, the steak was cooked unevenly, with half of it being medium and half rare/blue. I wish the steak was cooked more evenly. Our table ordered two and it was pretty consistent. Everyone seemed to enjoy their dishes and drinks!

Very cozy and nicely decorated place next to the jazz bar with surprisingly many seating. Volcano…read morenoodle is the highlight - so much meat and so flavorful. Delicious! Service is pleasant with constant water being filled.

Kung Fu Little Steamed Buns Ramen

3.5

(440 reviews)

Stopped by for a casual dumpling moment after arriving in the city. I went with my BF and we…read moredefinitelyyyy over-ordered, however everything was amazing and we had a ton of leftovers that were just as good the next day. Between the two of us, we ordered: Pork Shrmp Wonton Soup(6) SH Pan Fried Pork Bun (6) Scallion Pancake Slice Beef Beef ChiliPepp HandCut Noodle 1 Pork XLB Dumplings Pretty much every dish was great, and the standouts to me were the scallion pancake with sliced beef and the beef chili pepper hand cut noodles. The scallion pancake with beef was the most unique dish we had, and it had me wondering why scallion pancakes aren't always used as a protein wrapping?! Such a good idea. The sauce it came with was also incredible. And the hand cut noodles were also sooooooo delicious and nice and thick with great flavor. The other dishes (pork buns, pork XLB, and shrimp wonton soup) were alright, but nothing special. Overall the food was great though, the prices are sooo affordable for NYC, especially given the quality, and service was also good.

Very fresh fish hot pot with fresh vegetables! Perfect for winter…read more Ordered this to go to prepare for the storm-- excellent packing too, thanks! (They separate the soup!) Also ordered shrimp/pork stemmed dumplings. Would definitely order again! Very fresh!

Bối-licious

4.4

(107 reviews)

Still amazed by the low price point of food for this area especially. Cash only. This shop super…read moretiny so I suggest looking up the menu ahead of time and deciding what you want ahead of time. You can also call orders ahead for pickup. The staff is really friendly and work as quickly as they can to serve out orders but be prepared to wait . It's take out only, no tables/chairs or counter. I suggest going to one of the community spaces in the area, there are quite a few . (I like 574 5th ave ) In warmer weather Bryant Park is an option. I got the Pork Belly Banh Mi. Fatty and delicious- hit the spot. Ingredients were fresh. I'd tried the Pun Bo Hue here too on a prior vist- really good. The pho is also a hit. I really dont think there are any bad options here. The food is delicious. They also have Vietnamese and desserts. Grab a bunch ,you wont be disappointed here. Service is excellent!

I was craving pho and my coworker suggested this spot by Grand Central. He has gone a few times and…read morehas no complaints. So I went, the place seemed promising, there were a few people ahead of me waiting for their orders and more people came after us to place their orders. So there was a stream of patrons. This spot is take out only. It's a small place, with no tables or chairs, just a register at the back to take your order and the kitchen behind it. Nothing wrong with that, I can just bring my food to go. So when I got my food, I peeked inside everything looked promising and I was ready to dig in! We ordered: Beef pho (the beef was raw which is how it should be..so the broth will cook it) the broth was yummy when you drink it by itself..but ... The noodles were bland. So when you pour the broth in, it was not flavorful enough for the bowl of pho. Shrimp roll (unfortunately it was also a little bland) I was glad that I got the shrimp roll because I would not have been full otherwise. So overall impression presentation was great and looks promising.. unfortunately, it was just a little bland for my taste and it did not scratch my pho itch. So I was tad disappointed. Maybe I went on a bad day or maybe I should have gotten the banh mi instead, since a lot of people were visiting this shop.

Tipsy Shanghai

4.1

(151 reviews)

Came here today with family - we were a party of 5. Saw this place on social media and we decided…read moreto check it out. Was with family - in the moment and enjoying so I have no photos, sadly. Their alcohol menu consists of beer and wine. Tsing tao and Sauvignon blanc were our drinks of choice - as they were out of both options of sake. To eat - we had a little of everything - the wonton soup, veggie dumplings, pork soup dumplings, the ribs, braised beef noodles, the eggplant dish and ones of the fish. Everything was absolutely delish and the service was quick. They were also out of the dessert we wanted - the green tea cheesecake but we had the pumpkin dessert which was phenomenal! It came out hot and had red bean paste in the middle! Absolutely delicious. Took off one star because there were a couple of things we requested that were unavailable but aside from that the food was delicious and the service was great! Definitely check them out - there are multi locations in the city!

The food is excellent as is the ambiance. Although the soup dumplings are the star, the noodle…read moredishes are also great. Limited menu, but everything is delicious. The service is also attentive and helpful.

Pho Avenue

4.0

(30 reviews)

I was staying 3 blocks away and craving Pho. This is a small quaint restaurant on second Ave. The…read moreservice was prompt, and I received my hot bowl of PHO within minutes. Here's what I had: Beef and brisket pho- The bowl was huge! However, the flavor was a little lacking for me. It was decent, but the broth just didn't do it for me overall I would give it a 3.5.

With the limited options in the area, Pho Avenue is a solid choice. The positives right off the bat…read moreare the quick and friendly service. The Vietnamese coffee also hits and is strong. The beef pho was not heavy on the flavor however the noodles had great texture. With some work on the depth of flavor I think Pho Avenue could be a solid 4 stars but I would rate it 3 stars for now. The ambiance was fine and the place was pretty spotless. I probably won't be returning but hope them success.

KOBA Korean BBQ

4.5

(159 reviews)

KOBA has been on my NYC food hit list for a while, and the newest location did not disappoint…read more Sometimes fast food isn't just fast... it's flat-out incredible. First up: the Korean Fried Chicken with extra spicy BBQ sauce. Crispy, juicy, and just the right amount of heat. I would've fought my own reflection for the last piece. Then came the Dosirak, and this lunch box was packed with winners. The beef bulgogi was tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. The purple multigrain rice? I could eat that stuff every day without getting bored. The pickled cucumbers were fresh, the yellow radish added the perfect crunch, the kimchi had just the right kick, and the warm soup was pure comfort. The BBQ dipping sauce tied everything together, and finishing it off with a Choco Heim wafer cookie was the perfect ending. KOBA proves you don't need white tablecloths to serve food that hits every note. Sometimes fast food is done right... and this is one of those times. My only complaint? I ran out of bulgogi before I ran out of appetite.

waited quite while when food is ready. I see lots of…read moredeliveries. it used to be friendly services but we won't see the same clues anymore. after they said it's ready, it took extra 5min. After we've made a small complain they became nice. lol surprisingly, the restroom is for after ordering food. OMG. Beef quality is so so.

Aji Sushi

3.6

(243 reviews)