The best thing about New York is that unassuming buildings house secrets that you may pass by without blinking an eye. Mao Mao is one of those places. Once you step inside, you'll know there is plenty of fun to be had at this neon-red lit drinking den with its pull-down projector that screens throw-back Thai films and a parked tuk-tuk among it all. Drinking snacks include lemongrass peanuts and fried chicken wings and homemade sour laab chili powder in a cup that is best enjoyed with a little shake.
The vibe: The weekdays are relatively laid back with hip date nighters and friends catching up over Thai moonshine (more on that below).
The food: The menu has plenty of bites if a snack and sip is more of your speed, with fried lemongrass peanuts and fried chicken wing coated in a sour laab chili powder.
The drink: Behind the bar you can find bottles of Thai moonshine known as La Dong for the drinking. If the fermented liquor is too much to handle, the bar has a rotating list of Thai beers and cocktails.
Time Out tip: On the weekends, the DJ booth comes alive, as do the vibes.