A TASTE OF THAILAND

Tong

39 E. 13th St.; 212-253-2697

Tong, which comes from Thai food veteran Lenny Limleartvate of SEA, Spice and Highline, celebrates old-world Thailand in a soaring, temple-like two-level space in Union Square. A Buddha mural is the focal point of the “Gold Bar” on the lower level, which serves exotic cocktails, while chef Peter Pitakwong serves his extensive menu of Thai delights upstairs in the main dining room.

Must-have meal: “Miang” tofu with coconut, endive and lemongrass sauce (right, $5); chicken and basil pad Thai with fried egg ($10); a side of “Lord of the Omelet” cooked in fish oil with ginger ($4); and the Ka-Nom Gluy, a banana layered in chocolate mousse ($6).

Soundtrack: A mix of upbeat lounge and electronic music

Hours: Mon.-Sun., 11:30 a.m.-midnight

Bloomingdale Road

2398 Broadway; 212-874-7400

You won’t find expensive shoes at this new American wine bar and restaurant, which isn’t named for the Lexington Avenue department store but for the former name of the road now known as Broadway. Chef Ed Witt (Il Buco) has teamed up with Jeremy Wladis (Nonna, Campo) to revive the former Aix space into a convivial neighborhood spot with blue high-top tables, globe lights and a generous U-shaped bar. Witt’s approachable and inviting menu offers small plates for nibbling and larger ones for sharing.

Must-have meal: Suckling pig meatballs ($5) and spicy chicken lollipops with blue cheese fondue ($5); the cedar-roasted salmon with corn spoonbread and apple BBQ sauce (right, $17); a side of cheese grits ($7); and apricot and bourbon bread pudding ($9).

Soundtrack: From John Coltrane to Bruce Springsteen

Hours: Dinner: Mon.-Sun., 5-11 p.m.; lunch: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.; and brunch: Sat. and Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

– Andrea Strong