Restaurant Guide: KRU - Brooklyn
Ancient Thai traditions resurrected and reimagined in Brooklyn.
I don’t know about you, but when someone tells me they’ve been researching century-old Thai recipes, and have opened a new restaurant to bring some ancient ingredients back to life with a modern spin, I make plans to dine there immediately. Husband-wife pair, Chefs Ohm Suansilphong, and Kiki Supap are plating something very special in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
In fact, the day-to-day is actually in the hands of TWO husband-wife teams. While that detail may initially seem insignificant, it brought a level of personal care and service to the dining experience I’ve encountered at few restaurants (Cúrate in Asheville, NC comes to mind…but that’s a post for another day).
There’s really no reason to be verbose, so I’ll do my best to share highlights and perspective that leads you to create your own adventure next time you pop to New York City.
Relishes | เครื่องจิ้ม
Relishes at Kru
A dippable (new word) delight. Several variations to choose from, offering a flavor journey from spicy to sweet to savory - paired with a snap of fresh market veg or soft-boiled egg.
It’s not every day you get to combine the flavor powers of tamarind and galangal (a ginger-y cousin - adjacent to the spice ginger…not to be confused with Ginger Spice).
Bonus: all Kru’s relish dishes are gluten-free.
Squid Salad | แสร้งว่าปลาหมึก
Come for the freshest raw squid you’ve ever tasted, stay for the way it’s been bathed and swaddled in coriander and lemongrass.
Squid Salad at Kru
Beef Tongue Curry at Kru
Beef Tongue Curry | แกงป่าลิ้นวัว
And, now we pay homage and learn new respect for spice and heat. You have not...I repeat...you have not experienced beef tongue like this before. Of course, you can pair with rice, but I suggest trying a bite or two by itself to fully baptize your senses. I’ll stop short of callieng this comfort food, but there is absolutely something comfortING about the fiery chilis combined with the almost creamy morsels swimming in warm broth.
Whole Stuffed Deboned Branzino | ปลาบรรจุไส้ข้าว
The only way we can describe the experience of devouring this unit of a fish is a palate party. Every single ingredient finds a way to give main character energy, so you might need a minute to process what’s happening when each bite hits your tongue.
Whole Stuffed Deboned Branzino at Kru
Beverage Service | เครื่องดื่ม
Their full bar can quench all your spirited and non-spirited thirsts (sometimes with an Asian twist), and the beer and wine lists hit all the tasting notes, with a few unique offerings to explore and pair. I always recommend sharing what tastes you’re in the mood for and letting them surprise you...it’ll be worth it.
Accessibility and Dietary | ผู้พิการ
First off, it’s important to note the Kru team are dedicated to welcoming and serving all. As I mentioned at the beginning of this guide, the day-to-day is run by two couples who desire for your experience to be as accommodating as possible, disability or otherwise. If you have a specific request or want to reach out ahead of time, just send a DM to @kru.bk, or email Hello@KruBrooklyn.com.
There is an accessible entrance adjacent to the open-air main entrance. Guests are guided through a private hallway that opens into the dining room. Author’s note: This may also serve as a quiet space for any who may become overstimulated during service.
Much of the menu is already gluten-free. but for other dietary questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out using the contact info above. Kiss, one of the owners, will respond personally and assist in any way she can.
I’m looking forward for a return trip to Kru, and will be adding to this guide once I do (because I know I just scratched the surface of their simple but immersive menu).
Kru Brooklyn
190 N 14th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Cuisine: Thai, Asian, Fusion
Price: $$-$$$
