Kai Yang

Kai Yang is an authentic Thai restaurant nestled in the heart of Montclair, New Jersey, offering a culinary journey straight to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Chef-owner Sheree Sarabhaya, a Bangkok native, created this vibrant eatery after successful ventures with Spice II in Montclair and Boon Thai Kitchen in Livingston. The new 1,100 square foot space seats over 40 guests and evokes the colorful atmosphere of a Thai street market with its warm, inviting decor. The restaurant's signature dish, kai yang, features organically raised chickens marinated with a traditional coarse herbal rub including garlic, lemongrass, black peppercorn, palm sugar, and coriander root, all pounded using a classic stone mortar and pestle. Diners rave about the crispy whole red snapper offered with basil, ginger, garlic, or tamarind sauces, the fragrant pad Thai with its perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the spicy Tom Yum soup bursting with lemongrass and mushrooms. The menu also showcases green and red curries, massaman curry with pineapple and crushed peanuts, papaya salad, and the tender duck preparations in various sauces. Open Monday, Wednesday through Thursday 11:30am-9pm, Friday and Saturday until 10pm, and Sunday 11:30am-9pm, Kai Yang provides a memorable dining experience for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Thai comfort food in northern New Jersey.