Chongkho opens with Thai fusion + public art

Chongkho opened its doors last week bringing classic Thai cuisine with fusion options along with new public art to the neighborhood.

Chive dumplings served with a sweet soy sauce

The latest restaurant opening on Grand Street, Chongkho at 562, comes with a diverse Thai fusion menu and has already made its mark on the neighborhood. Before its opening, signs of life appeared at the former home of Desy’s Clam Bar when a new mural by JPO popped up on its gate. Chongkho and JPO connected through a family friendship, and he agreed to paint the gates to liven the new site while also contributing the 11th new mural on Grand Street in 2019.

Before that however, Chongkho got its start when Apichada, the chef + owner, was working in the hotel industry in Manhattan when she realized she wanted to open a restaurant. She took the L train into Brooklyn and decided to skip Bedford and get off at the Grand Street station looking for an open place. She landed at 562 and got to work opening the location with her daughter Orawan.

The result is a menu that consists of a mix of Thai, American + international cuisine. You can order every Thai classic from curry to pad thai, and everything from mussels to pasta to burgers as well. The eatery also has a unique selection of summery beverages like Thai iced tea and butterfly pea lemonade. Chongkho has the makings of the perfect destination when you’re seeking comfort food of any origin, and the perfect compromise when you and your SO or friend can’t agree on where to go. Either way, be sure to stop by and try a bit of everything. You can see the full menu here and you can follow them at @chongkho_bk.

The gate of Chongkho painted by JPO
Photo credit @walkinggirlnyc

JPO paints gate at 562 Grand Street

The piece was commissioned by the incoming Thai restaurant Chongkho

The work contains elements signature to JPO pieces

Grand Street received yet another original work from a well-respected street artist last week when artist JPO (John Paul O’Grodnick) painted the gate of the former site of Desy’s Clam Bar.

JPO is a NYC based artist whose art appears across the city, in galleries, and even in clothing lines. His paintings can be easily recognized by the abstract puzzle-like shapes of people depicted in vibrant color. His art has been used by the Governor’s Ball music festival and GAP, and his work can be found in DUMBO, Little Italy, and various NYC locations.

The incoming Thai restaurant Chongkho commissioned the work, bringing the district its 11th new mural this year. See other notable works by JPO here and follow him @JPOart. Follow us @grandstreetbid for the most up to date news on our arts initiatives.