New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine reflects this diversity. The city is known for its culinary scene, and spicy food is no exception. From Indian curries to Mexican salsas, there are countless restaurants in the city that specialize in spicy dishes.
As a local, I have had the pleasure of exploring some of the best spicy food restaurants in the city. In this blog post, I will be sharing my top picks for the best spicy food restaurants in New York City.
For those who love a good kick in their food, New York City has a lot to offer. Whether you're looking for a spicy curry or a fiery bowl of noodles, the city has it all. From hole-in-the-wall restaurants to high-end establishments, there's something for everyone. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose where to go.
That's where I come in. As a spicy food enthusiast, I have scoured the city to find the best of the best when it comes to spicy cuisine. In this post, I'll be sharing my favorite restaurants that serve up spicy dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and maybe even a little sweaty.
1. Fish Cheeks
Fish Cheeks is a must-visit for anyone who loves Thai seafood with a spicy kick. The steamed fish with Thai herbs is a standout dish that is worth coming back for.
The pork cheeks are succulent and tender, while the crab fried rice is fried perfectly and the crab flavor shines through.
The oysters are fresh and delicious with the sauce adding an extra layer of flavor. The restaurant is packed, but the servers are efficient and friendly.
The portions are reasonable, but some dishes lean towards the smaller side. Fish Cheeks is a great place for shareable Thai seafood plates with cocktails.
2. Spicy Moon
Spicy Moon is a must-visit for those who love spicy food. This cozy Chinese restaurant offers delicious plant-based Szechuan dishes that are perfect for vegans and vegetarians.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the chef is skilled in creating flavorful and beautifully presented dishes. The Bok Choy, Eggplant, Mushrooms, and dumplings in chili oil are all highly recommended.
The Dan Dan noodles are a showstopper and the wontons in chili oil are a must-try. They also offer gluten-free options and a good selection of drinks.
The prices are reasonable and the portions are good. If you're looking for a unique and tasty dining experience, Spicy Moon is the place to be.
3. Somtum Der
Somtum Der is a must-try for anyone looking for authentic and spicy Thai cuisine. This restaurant offers a unique take on Thai food with a focus on northeastern dishes.
The fresh ingredients and perfect blends of herbs and spices make for a delicious meal. Be warned, the spice level is not for the faint of heart.
The portions are medium-sized, but the lunch combo is a great deal. The interior is simple yet elegant, and the service is great. The papaya salad is fantastic, and the Singha Bombs are a must-try.
All entrees are reasonably priced and perfect for sharing. If you're looking for a chic and spicy dining experience, Somtum Der is the place to be.
4. Super Taste
Super Taste is a Chinese restaurant that specializes in spicy food. It is a small, no-frills eatery that is always packed with customers due to their excellent food.
Their dumplings, both fried and steamed, are a must-try, especially when paired with their hot chili flake oil and dark vinegar sauce.
Their hand-pulled noodles are also a crowd favorite, with rich and flavorful broths to choose from. Prices are affordable and the food is made to order.
The only downside is the lack of available seating and bathroom facilities. For those who love spicy food, Super Taste is definitely worth a visit.
5. Spicy Village
Spicy Village is a cozy restaurant that serves northern Chinese cuisine.
The menu boasts a variety of spicy dishes, including the Spicy Big Tray Chicken with hand-pulled noodles. The scallion dumplings are a must-try.
The restaurant has a hole-in-the-wall vibe and limited indoor seating. The prices are reasonable, with most dishes costing around $9-10.
The owners are friendly and the service is quick. Be sure to bring cash, as they do not accept credit cards.
6. Sigiri
Sigiri is a small Sri Lankan restaurant that specializes in richly spiced cuisine.
The restaurant offers a variety of Sri Lankan dishes that are both tasty and spicy. The service is attentive, and the portions are generous.
The Sunday lunch buffet is a great option for those who are less familiar with the cuisine. The restaurant only accepts cash or Venmo, so be prepared.
If you're a fan of spicy food and are looking for an authentic Sri Lankan dining experience, then Sigiri is definitely worth checking out.
7. Mughlai Grill Indian Cuisine
Mughlai Grill Indian Cuisine is a must-visit for those who love spicy food. The restaurant offers a variety of flavorful dishes that are worth the price.
The customer service is friendly and quick, making for a pleasant dining experience. The ambiance is intimate and the music adds to the overall atmosphere.
The restaurant also offers a great vegan menu. The owner is kind and thoughtful, as evidenced by the complimentary dessert.
The restroom is clean, and the food is served promptly. Mughlai Grill Indian Cuisine is a great spot for those who enjoy Indian cuisine and spicy food.
8. Paisley
Paisley is a must-visit restaurant for anyone who loves spicy food. The high-quality ingredients used in their dishes are delicately put together to create unique and authentic flavors.
The lotus roots curry is a standout dish, while the crispy eggplant appetizer and garlic naan are also highly recommended.
The service is friendly, attentive, and caring, making for a welcoming dining experience.
The restaurant also offers craft cocktails and wine, making it a great spot for a night out. If you're looking for upscale regional Indian plates, Paisley is the place to go.
9. Ginger and Lemongrass
Ginger and Lemongrass serves up delicious and spicy Asian cuisine. The menu offers a great variety of dishes, including unique takes on traditional favorites like pho and spring rolls.
The shrimp and chicken spring rolls are a must-try, bursting with flavor. The papaya salad with shrimp packs a spicy punch and the grilled shrimp are cooked to perfection.
The Green Chicken curry with rice is a solid choice, but the chicken can be a bit dry. The atmosphere is beautiful and the service is fantastic, making for a great dining experience.
Ginger and Lemongrass is a great spot for anyone looking for some tasty and spicy Asian cuisine.
10. Spice Symphony
Spice Symphony is a fantastic Indian-Chinese fusion restaurant that offers delicious and authentic food.
The restaurant boasts a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian options, and the knowledgeable staff is always happy to make recommendations.
The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of the food. The restaurant is clean and well-maintained, and the service is excellent.
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful dining experience, Spice Symphony is definitely worth a visit.
11. Spiced NYC
Spiced NYC is a fancy kosher restaurant that offers an incredible spicy food experience.
The restaurant boasts a beautiful decor and friendly staff, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The variety platter is a must try, and the steak is absolutely delicious.
The presentation of the food is well done, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable.
While prices may be a bit steep for some items, the quality of the food and service make it worth it. Spiced NYC is definitely recommended for those looking for a great spicy food restaurant.
12. Sticky's Finger Joint
Sticky's Finger Joint is a must-visit for anyone who loves spicy food. With over 15 different dipping sauces, the chicken here is hot, fresh, and tender.
The breading has a nice light crispness, and the fries are crunchy and delicious. The Thai Fiesta Chicken Poppers are highly recommended, and the Hot Honey and Nashville Numb sauces are a must-try.
The service is quick and courteous, making it a great option for quality fast food. Though the pricing may be a little high, the food is definitely worth it.
All in all, Sticky's Finger Joint is a great place for anyone who loves spicy chicken and tasty fries.
13. Silky Kitchen
Silky Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant for spicy food lovers. They offer a variety of dishes with different spice levels, ranging from mild to extremely spicy.
Their rice noodle soups are particularly noteworthy, and the dumplings are juicy and flavorful.
The restaurant has a modern vibe, and the service is quick and friendly. Prices are reasonable, and the portions are filling.
If you're looking for authentic and spicy Chinese cuisine, Silky Kitchen is a great choice.
