Fish Cheeks

“I had been wanting to try Fish Cheeks ever since it first caught my attention in 2022, but I kept putting it off, assuming it might be overhyped and a bit pricey. I couldn’t have been more wrong—I seriously regret not going sooner. I went a few days ago with friends, and I’m still thinking about the meal. Everything we ordered was incredibly delicious, and I was honestly blown away. What really sets this place apart is how boldly the Thai flavors shine through in each dish. This isn’t your typical Thai spot with Pad Thai, Khao Pad, or Tom Yum. Instead, you get more unique, elaborate dishes that are packed with flavor. While everything was great, the standout dishes for me were the braised fish with Thai herbs, prawn karee, and the raw marinated crab. Each one had a perfect balance of sour, sweet, salty, and spicy. As someone who enjoys very spicy food, I especially loved the marinated crab—it definitely brings the heat. The 30 day dry aged beef kaprow was also very flavorful, and the fried egg on top was a nice touch, but I did find it a bit oily and slightly overpriced compared to the other dishes. The zabb wings were good, though I think they could have used a bit more seasoning. Overall, this was an incredible dining experience. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for bold, unique flavors. I’ll definitely be back—and will probably be dreaming about this meal until then.”

“I had a great experience at Fish Cheeks. The food was outstanding — especially the fried rainbow trout, which was absolutely delicious, and the crab fried rice, which was packed with flavor. Our waiter, Vincent, was wonderful — super attentive and gave fantastic recommendations throughout the meal. The music added a great vibe to the dining experience, and even the restrooms were spotless, which I appreciated. The only dish that didn’t quite hit was the wok-fried morning glory, which was just okay compared to everything else. Overall, this place is a total gem and I’d definitely come back!”

“Been here twice already! The food here is insanely delicious—rich and packed with bold flavors. This place gets very crowded, so a reservation is a must. Totally worth coming! Appetizers (HIGHLY recommend trying both): • Zaab Wings – Addictively spicy and tangy, perfectly seasoned. • Mussel Gorlae – Mussels coated in a flavorful, spicy curry glaze, grilled beautifully with a smoky finish. Dishes: • Rawaaeng Duck Curry – Duck was tender and paired well with the spicy curry sauce, though the duck itself was slightly bland. • Crab Fried Rice – Generous chunks of crab mixed throughout; sooo good. • Steamed Fish with Thai Herbs – Very tender fish with strong cilantro and lime flavors. The broth is sour but incredibly satisfying—easy to devour with a whole bowl of rice. • Pakboong Fai Dang – Morning glory with a great wok-smoky flavor. Atmosphere: Amazing energy and vibe. Definitely a repeat customer.”

“One of the strongest Thai dinner programs in the city. I have been going to Fish Cheeks for several years so I have watched it change, expand, and evolve. I want to begin this review by noting that their menu seems to have been mellowed out flavor wise. While I am not certain if this is to appease the weak taste buds of the neighborhood or another reason, I unfortunately feel this has weakened the appeal of the restaurant for me. It is still delicious but I miss how much the spice here used to hit. On the most recent visit I ordered the steamed whole fish, the corn salad, the fried cabbage, and the 30 day aged beef. The meal begins with complimentary puffed rice cakes and a sweet dipping sauce. While not filling at all, it is a nice touch that elevates the experience and provides a warm welcome. The corn salad is delicious with a punchy acidic level and beautifully fresh vegetables. My only note is that the portion changes every single visit. Thankfully on this visit is was the largest we have ever had. It seems like a simple dish but it really hits the spot. While not ordered on this visit the zaab zaab wings are amazing. They taste like a more acidic taki seasoning on chicken wings. Again, the number of wings has changed each time we have ordered it so we decided against getting it this visit. A must order is one or the whole fish offerings (or all of them). On this visit we got the steamed fish. It is full of lime, cilantro and other fresh herbs and perfectly cooked. It is kept piping hot by a burner on the table. This fish is one of the best seafood preparations in the city. I could eat the entire thing myself even with how filling it is. The fried cabbage is a great side for the mains at this restaurant. Perfectly cooked while also being crispy fresh. We decided to get the 30 days aged beef this visit. It was fine but the flavored were mellow compared to everything else and the ground texture was a negative contrast with the lightness of the fish we ordered. I would get something else next time. The service was attentive and professional. With such a busy restaurant the hosts do a great job of managing the seating and turnover of tables.”

“A bit disappointed, we were put in the upstairs room which is like a yoga studio / prefab. I thought the restaurant vibe is part of the experience, up there felt like an isolated family room. Secondly, food was very underwhelming small for the price they charge. I have been through countless Thai food in the city, and I believe quantity/quality cost is unjustified. Lastly we brought coffee from outside from earlier of our day and we were asked to leave them downstairs on the food pickup rack. I mean seriously coffee? What’s the big deal? It’s 2 paper cups, you want to put your customer in a mixed mood to start their food by removing something from them.. such poor commercial practice in my opinion. We are already in your restaurant ordering, you think by taking it away from us we will be happy and order coffee? Review your priorities lady.. In another note, the guy doing the service was extremely knowledgeable on the menu, allergies of all kind and recommending options for diet restrictions. Overall mixed experience, will not go back.”