Queens is basically the Hunger Games of food. If you can’t hack it, you’re gone in six months. So when you see a place like BKNY Thai Restaurant Queens NY holding it down on Myrtle Avenue in Glendale, you gotta pay attention. It isn’t just another takeout joint with a faded picture of Pad Thai in the window. Honestly, it’s one of those rare spots where the atmosphere actually matches the spice level.
You’ve probably driven past it a dozen times.
It’s tucked away, looking a bit more upscale than the surrounding storefronts, which usually signals "overpriced" or "trying too hard." But it isn’t. BKNY manages to walk that weird tightrope between being a "date night" destination and a "I’m in my sweatpants and need curry" kind of place.
The Glendale Food Scene is Changing
For a long time, Glendale and the surrounding Ridgewood area were dominated by old-school European bakeries and classic pizza shops. Don't get me wrong, I love a good cannoli as much as the next person. But the arrival and sustained success of BKNY Thai Restaurant Queens NY signaled a shift in what the neighborhood wanted. People were tired of traveling all the way to Woodside or Elmhurst for "real" Thai food. They wanted those funky, salty, spicy, and sweet notes right in their backyard.
The interior is surprisingly chic. Think dark wood, moody lighting, and a bar that makes you feel like you're in Manhattan, minus the $25 cocktails and the condescending host. It feels intentional. Most Thai spots in this part of Queens are strictly utilitarian—bright fluorescent lights and plastic chairs—but BKNY wants you to stay a while.
What’s Actually Worth Ordering?
Look, we need to talk about the menu. Most people default to Pad Thai. It’s the safe bet. It’s the vanilla ice cream of Thai food. And yeah, BKNY does a solid version—it’s not cloyingly sweet like some places that just dump sugar into the tamarind paste. But if you’re only eating Pad Thai here, you’re kinda missing the point.
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The Crispy Duck is arguably the star of the show.
Usually, when you order duck at a mid-tier restaurant, you get a plate of fat with a little bit of meat hiding underneath. Here, the skin is actually rendered down properly. It’s shattered-glass crispy. Whether you get it with the Chu Chee curry or the Tamarind sauce, it's the dish that proves the kitchen knows what they're doing.
- The Curry Puffs: These are the litmus test for any Thai restaurant. If they’re greasy, the meal is ruined. BKNY’s puffs are flaky, almost like a croissant, filled with that savory chicken and potato mix that hits the spot when it’s 20 degrees outside.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: It comes in a pineapple. Is it a gimmick? Maybe. Does it taste better when eaten out of a fruit? Absolutely.
- The Spicy Levels: A quick warning—when they say "Thai Spicy," they aren't kidding. I've seen people who think they can handle heat leave with tears in their eyes. Start at medium. You can always add more chili, but you can’t take it out once your tongue is vibrating.
The Logistics of Eating at BKNY Thai Restaurant Queens NY
Parking in Glendale is a nightmare. Let’s just be real about that. If you’re driving to Myrtle Ave, give yourself an extra fifteen minutes to circle the block or just bite the bullet and park a few streets over in the residential area.
If you're taking the bus, the Q55 drops you pretty much right there.
Service is usually quick, but on Friday nights, the delivery apps absolutely hammer them. You’ll see a steady stream of drivers coming in and out. If you’re dining in, sometimes there’s a slight lag between your appetizer and the entree, but the staff is generally attentive enough that it doesn't feel like you've been abandoned.
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Why the "BK" in the name?
It’s a bit of a local mystery for some, but it’s basically a nod to the bridge between Brooklyn and New York (Queens). Being located right on the edge of the two boroughs, the name reflects that hybrid identity. It’s got that Brooklyn aesthetic with a Queens soul.
What's interesting is how they've stayed consistent.
A lot of restaurants start strong and then the quality dips once they get a loyal following. BKNY has managed to keep the flavor profiles sharp. The lemongrass is bright, the galangal is pungent, and the coconut milk is rich, not watery. That’s the E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) of the food world—consistency over years, not just weeks.
The Pricing Reality
We aren't in 2010 anymore. You aren't getting a full dinner for $10. However, in the grand scheme of NYC dining, BKNY Thai Restaurant Queens NY is incredibly fair. You’re looking at $15 to $25 for most entrees. Given the portion sizes—which are usually enough for lunch the next day—it’s a better value than most of the "fast-casual" chains popping up in the nearby shopping centers.
Misconceptions About Queens Thai Food
People often think you have to go to Sripraphai or Ayada in Woodside to get "authentic" Thai. While those places are legendary for a reason, the "authenticity" trap is a weird one. Food evolves. BKNY serves food that appeals to the local palate while keeping the core techniques intact. It doesn't feel like "Thai-lite." It feels like a neighborhood spot that respects the cuisine.
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They also have a full bar. This shouldn't be a big deal, but a lot of Thai places only have a limited beer and wine license. Having the option for a well-made cocktail or a specific spirit makes a difference if you’re trying to have a "night out" rather than just a quick bite.
Planning Your Visit: Actionable Steps
If you're planning to head over to BKNY Thai Restaurant Queens NY, here is how to do it right. Don't just show up on a Saturday night at 7:00 PM and expect to slide right into a booth.
- Make a Reservation: Especially if you have a group of four or more. The space isn't tiny, but it fills up fast with locals.
- Check the Lunch Specials: If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, their lunch menu is a steal. You get an appetizer and an entree for a price that makes you wonder how they make a profit.
- Order the Thai Iced Tea: It’s basically a dessert in a glass. It's the perfect fire extinguisher if you ignored my advice and ordered your curry "Thai Spicy."
- Ask About Daily Specials: Sometimes they have fish dishes—like a whole fried snapper—that aren't on the regular printed menu. These are usually the best things coming out of the kitchen.
Glendale isn't exactly a "destination" neighborhood for foodies yet, but places like BKNY are changing that narrative. It’s reliable. It’s flavorful. It’s one of those spots that makes living in Queens feel like a massive win for your taste buds. Whether you're a local or just passing through after a trip to Forest Park, it's worth the stop.
The reality of the NYC restaurant scene is that most places are gone before you even learn their names. The fact that this spot has become a cornerstone of Myrtle Ave says more than any glossy review ever could. You get real food, made by people who clearly care about the prep work, served in a room that doesn't feel like an afterthought.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check their current hours before heading out, as mid-week lunch hours can sometimes shift.
- Target the "Duck Tamarind" if it's your first time; it's the most consistent "wow" dish on the menu.
- Explore the neighborhood afterward—there are some great quiet bars and coffee shops within walking distance in Glendale and Ridgewood to round out the evening.