Top Thai 55 Carmine — Restaurant in New York

I don’t think I will come back here again.

I have come to Top Thai, both branches, well over 20x. I have brought so many friends here, treated so many people with the birthday special. Friends from out of state- I always direct them here. Of all the people I love, I always think, I wish I could bring my mom here. It’s difficult for her to commute via the subway to the city from where we are in Brooklyn, as she is much older and has health issues. Today I managed to bring her for lunch for her birthday, after coming from a lovely massage, she was feeling so happy to have lunch at this place I always raved about. On the side I asked a waiter for the birthday special as a surprise for my mom (which is a service you pay for btw). Naturally we had our appetizers, she also ordered a soup and her entree and I ordered my entree shortly after. The soup was way too sweet and the entree was way too salty. She only had one of the shrimps and when she said it was too salty, I tried one of the shrimp and agreed. I told her maybe have it with the plain rice to see if it will taste less salty? She tried to have a vegetable with it and it was just too salty so we waited for a waiter to pass by and naturally I also told her to try my salad so in the meantime she had a little of my food. We were not gonna leave anytime soon- I had just gotten my entree and only had like 2 bites, full hot bowl about to eat, and when a waiter passed by to say the kitchen was closing, my mom who was nervous to say something because she wanted to be polite, explained respectfully that her soup was way too sweet and that the entree was way too salty and she is just being honest, the waiter did not even apologize or say anything. So then the original waiter that took our order had come closer so my mom told her as well. This waiter was more respectful but the other one was so rude and questioned us in a disrespectful way. They both came and said they can cross out the soup but not the entree because we “ate two of the six shrimps”.. and the rude waiter was like why didn’t you say something earlier you already “ate half the food”, and we explained but she was still coming at us and talking to my mom aggressively. They didn’t even consider taking partial off of it considering their logic. My mom was really upset and said she came here to have her birthday lunch. The waiter was talking to us as if we were trying to be deceitful or something I mean, why would we do that? What was the purpose in that rudeness and questioning in that way? I then told them to cancel the birthday surprise, because at this point, don’t expect my mom to be able to enjoy the moment of the very people who are being disrespectful to now come singing happy birthday. I didn’t even have my third bite of my entree yet, and packed it to go because we felt really uncomfortable staying any longer. Ofcourse they already automatically take tip as part of what they charge you - and in this case they didn’t deserve it. My total order was $101.03, and since I didn’t have 3 cents, I gave a full extra dollar. The rude waiter comes back and doesn’t bring my change, which normally I would actually include it as additional tip but in this experience, they don’t deserve a single extra cent. I ask her for the change and she comes back with a bunch of nickels for the 97 cents and rudely puts it on the table. I don’t know if she did this to be spiteful, but she was rude before regardless. It sucks, because I loved this place a lot but seeing how they treated my mom during her birthday lunch broke my heart and I feel like I’m always going to remember that if I come back. Respect...

Restaurant Review: A Flavorful Adventure at “Top 55 Thai”

Some meals are a necessity; others are a revelation. My dinner at Top 55 Thai was unquestionably the latter. Tucked away in an unassuming plaza, the restaurant’s exterior doesn’t hint at the magic within. But from the moment I walked in, I was transported—not just to a world of exquisite Thai cuisine but to an atmosphere where hospitality reigns supreme. And much of that can be credited to Fluke, our server and, I dare say, the soul of the evening.

Fluke greeted us with a grin that could rival the sun in warmth. “Welcome! You’re in for something special,” he said, guiding us to a cozy corner table. His enthusiasm was infectious, and he made us feel like we weren’t just customers but honored guests in his own home.

The menu at Top 55 Thai was vast, boasting everything from fragrant curries to sizzling stir-fries, but Fluke quickly became our culinary guide. “Start with the som tum,” he suggested, referring to the green papaya salad. “But only if you like spice—I can tell you’re up for it.” Intrigued, we followed his advice, and when the salad arrived, it was an explosion of flavor. The crispness of the papaya, the fiery chili, the tang of lime—it was a symphony in every bite.

Next came the Tom Yum soup, served steaming hot with plump shrimp and a broth so perfectly balanced it made my taste buds sing. Fluke dropped by to check on us, offering a sly smile as he said, “I told you. Just wait for the main course.”

And oh, the main course! The Pad Kee Mao (drunken noodles) was a triumph—wide rice noodles slick with a savory sauce, studded with tender chicken, fresh basil, and just the right amount of heat. My dining companion opted for the Massaman curry, a rich and creamy dish with tender chunks of beef, sweet potatoes, and a subtle, nutty undertone. Fluke popped by again, this time sharing the story behind the curry: “The chef learned it from his grandmother—it’s been in the family for three generations.”

Fluke’s charm didn’t waver, even as the restaurant grew busier. He moved effortlessly between tables, always making each guest feel like they were the most important. “Dessert?” he asked with a knowing twinkle. We hesitated, stuffed from the feast, but he convinced us to share the mango sticky rice. “You can’t leave without trying it—it’s tradition.”

The mango sticky rice was everything Fluke promised and more: perfectly ripe mango paired with warm, slightly sweetened coconut rice that melted in the mouth. It was the kind of dessert that lingers in your memory long after the meal is over.

As we prepared to leave, Fluke walked us to the door. “Next time, try the Pad Thai or the duck curry,” he said with a wink. “But I’ll save you a spot for the green curry too—it’s my personal favorite.”

Final Thoughts: Top 55 Thai is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of flavor and warmth. The food is divine, the atmosphere inviting, and Fluke? He’s the kind of server who transforms a good meal into an unforgettable experience.

Rating: 5/5 If you’re looking for authentic Thai cuisine served with a side of unmatched hospitality, look no further than Top 55 Thai. Fluke will take care...

I had never been to the original location but had heard good things in general. Vintage is a newer restaurant in NY that adds to the exciting diversity of food that is offer in the area. ⁣ ⁣ When I first arrived to meet up with friends, it looked very busy but luckily that party was just on their way out. We we were seated without any issues but during prime hours I can only imagine how packed this place would be! ⁣ ⁣ The area is very spacious with a good amount of seating and a very casual atmosphere. All the employees that helped out table were very polite, accommodating and courteous. I appreciate their hard work. Our main host Eric was on point with menu recommendations and excellent customer service. ⁣ ⁣ There were quite a few dishes that were ordered amongst our group. ⁣ ⁣ For appetizers there was the wonderful dumpling combo which consisted of chicken, vegetable and shrimp. Perfect choice for anyone who does not eat meat or wants some variety. ⁣ ⁣ Crispy and perfectly fried Crab Rangoon definitely whet the appetite and hit the spot. ⁣ ⁣ The Premium platter had a very unique presentation as it had a next covering over it. I had never seen anything like that before. It consisted of grilled marinated beef, fried calamari, and delicious Top Thai spring rolls. The sauces were Jeaw sauce for the meat as well as spicy mayo and sweet chili for the rest of the items. ⁣ ⁣ I originally wanted to go with the T Bone steak for my entree but unfortunately I was informed that they sold out. It must have been very good! ⁣ ⁣ So I went with the the 16oz grilled skirt steak with the Thai black pepper sauce ( fresh black pepper, bell peppers, onion, scallion and garlic). The sides consisted of carrots, broccoli and bok choy. This was quite amazing. I order it medium rare. The presentation was on point as well. ⁣ ⁣ There was a separate order of pineapple fried rice which is a must when eating at a Thai restaurant. It was very tasty and a great complement to the entree. ⁣ ⁣ Other noteworthy dishes were the ⁣ Pad Talay - a seafood inspired dish that looked and tasted amazing.⁣ ⁣ Beef Basil Udon- This menu item has a bit of a kick to it! ⁣ ⁣ Chicken Khao Soi - this Northern Thai dish is quite popular and was a hit amongst the group as well. ⁣ ⁣ Crispy Duck Masaman Curry - for those who do not prefer spice this was a great menu choice! ⁣ ⁣ To to wash it all down I got the classic and refreshing Thai Iced Tea. They offer tapioca balls (like in bubble tea) but unfortunately they were sold out. ⁣ ⁣ Dessert I always save room for. They offer tempura ice cream (fried) in vanilla and matcha. Fried ice cream on the menu was a welcome surprise for me. We got the matcha (green tea) and it was eaten up so quick. ⁣ ⁣ The Coconut Pudding (three small dishes) is a classic Thai dessert I have seen at other restaurants. Always a good choice and the serving is small so you still have room after a big meal. ⁣ ⁣ The Taro Custard were bite sized and so good...a surprise hit for our group. ⁣ ⁣ Get there early for the T Bone and tapioca drinks! ⁣ ⁣ Overall it was a wonderful...