Seemor
WaylaB+Worth Trying
100 Forsyth St, New York, NY 10002
· Thai restaurant, Garden, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1097 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Lively Lower East Side Thai with creative dishes, strong cocktails, and a garden vibe; great flavors but service consistency and policies can frustrate.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Wayla delivers exceptional food quality with bold Thai flavors and premium seafood execution that earns strong loyalty, but inconsistent execution—ranging from perfectly seasoned crab fried rice to occasional bland or overly spicy dishes—prevents a higher grade. The appealing garden setting and knowledgeable service are genuine strengths, though host-stand friction and isolated safety concerns temper the overall experience for a solid neighborhood favorite rather than a destination standout.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked on Forsyth, Wayla hums with a lively, cozy energy that draws both locals and visitors for group dinners and celebratory brunches. Guests rave about bold Thai flavors and polished plating, with one diner noting, "the crab fried rice was loaded with sweet crab and perfectly seasoned." However, some evenings bring host-stand friction around reservations and timing. The cooking leans creative and produce-driven Thai, not a greatest-hits checklist. Expect premium seafood like lobster pad Thai and branzino, confident spice, and playful street-market starters. The culinary approach leans contemporary with thoughtful twists: modern flavor play and premium ingredients rather than theatrics. Families can do well here thanks to familiar anchors like pad thai and fried rice, plus mild options on request, though heat can run high. There is no explicit kids menu, and the lively atmosphere may be better for school-age kids than toddlers. Portion sizes are fair, and desserts like mango or durian sticky rice win smiles.
At a Glance
- Standout seafood and wings with vibrant, layered spice
- Lively ambiance with garden seating and strong cocktails
- Host and reservation policy can feel rigid or rude
- Pricey for Thai; premium seafood drives costs
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- garden_backyard_setting
- seafood_showpieces
- creative_mocktails_and_cocktails
What People Love
- Wings with addictive spice
- Crab fried rice packed with real crab
- Lobster noodles as a showpiece
- Warm, lively vibe with polished cocktails
- Mango and durian sticky rice desserts
Points of Concern
- Host and door policies can feel dismissive; timed seating may rush the end of meals
- Outdoor seating can attract pests seasonally; one report of rats and a roach
- A few safety/quality hiccups (shell in crab); isolated but noted
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (many mains $25+); seafood premiums apply
- Review patterns show some polarized service experiences which may not reflect every visit
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$52-70 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: Kanang Pad Krapow or Tua Pad Prik Khing (both labeled vegan)
- Gluten-free seekers: Pad Thai (GF) and jasmine or sticky rice sides
- Seafood lovers: Whole branzino and lobster noodles justify the premium
Perfect For
- After-work cocktail and snack crawl
- Group celebration with adventurous eaters
- Date night in the LES garden
- Out-of-town guest dinner with modern Thai
Location Insights
Area: Trendy Lower East Side block with nightlife, galleries, and casual-fine dining; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Busy, generally safe with typical NYC urban grit; outdoor areas can attract pests seasonally.
Nearby: Near Chinatown and Little Italy; bars, cafes, and boutiques on and around Forsyth/Delancey corridors.
Lower East SideThe Lower East Side is known for its vibrant dining scene featuring a mix of trendy restaurants, casual eateries, and traditional ethnic food spots. The area has a lively social atmosphere with a strong cultural heritage, attracting a diverse crowd interested in nightlife, art, and innovative cuisine.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:00
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–15:00, 17:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →