Why Come Here? Great Asian style wings, see what a drinking vinegar is
Pok Pok Wing is the first foray into New York by Portland-based chef Andy Ricker (also of Pok Pok NY, some of NY’s best Thai). It may also be the definition of doing one thing right (actually three). It’s a dingy, hole-in-the-wall further east on the lower east side than you would generally venture. They play strange Thai versions of classic American songs. There’s no alcohol (I know, wings without beer seems wrong), but the flavored drinking vinegars are a more enjoyable substitute than you’d expect. The menu consists of 5 things: Wings, Papaya Salad, Coconut Rice, Sticky Rice and Red Peanuts. And if that’s what you want, Pok Pok is hard to be. I sampled the first 3 on my visit and my thoughts are below:
Ike’s Wings 
Big, meaty wings covered in a sweet, sour and spicy glaze. Definitely unique and some of the city’s best. Note: the spicy is only moderately spicy at best.
Papaya Salad 
An excellent version of the classic salad. Refreshing, tangy and spicy with very fresh ingredients. You’ll want to compliment your wings with this.
Coconut Rice Good texture and coconut flavor. Add this carb for a complete meal!
Pok Pok Wing
137 Rivington St. (Norfolk & Suffolk Sts.)
New York, NY
