THEP

Walking into THEP on the Upper East Side, you’re immediately struck by the gorgeous space. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the modern dining room with natural light, while hanging plants add a touch of lush greenery. Step outside to the wraparound patio and you’ll find yourself surrounded by white flowers and even more verdant touches—it’s the kind of setting that makes you want to linger over a long meal.

The menu here is extensive, offering plenty of options for exploring Thai flavors. Some dishes genuinely shine, like the eye-catching purple peanut dumplings with their unique gelatinous texture and satisfying filling. The seared duck breast swimming in velvety red curry is another winner that delivers on both presentation and taste.

However, the kitchen can be inconsistent. Not every dish lives up to the promise of that beautiful dining room. With such a sprawling menu, quality varies—some items hit while others miss the mark. It’s the kind of place where ordering strategically pays off, so stick to the dishes that have earned their reputation.

For a date night on the Upper East Side, THEP offers ambiance in spades. The romantic patio setting and attractive interior make it a solid choice when you want somewhere that looks as good as it feels. Just go in with realistic expectations about the food, focus on the proven favorites, and let the lovely surroundings do the rest.