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Nestled in the vibrant heart of New York City's Chinatown, Lai Rai offers an exceptional menu that perfectly complements its impressive selection of natural wines. This wine bar is renowned for its inventive Vietnamese-inspired small plates and a dazzling array of homemade ice creams, making it a must-visit destination for foodies, wine lovers, and adventurous eaters alike.

Starters that Ignite the Palate

Lai Rai's starters showcase bold Vietnamese flavors accented by thoughtful ingredients. Begin your culinary journey with the Giò Thủ, a traditional Vietnamese head cheese delicately spiced with peppercorns and enriched with tender cartilage for a satisfying texture. For something crispy and savory, the Chicharron offers perfectly seasoned pork skin, delivering a crunch that pairs beautifully with the bar's wine offerings. Seafood lovers will delight in the Surf Clam in Coconut Milk, where fresh surf clam is bathed in creamy coconut milk and enhanced with a fragrant herb dressing featuring shiso and Vietnamese coriander — a perfect balance of richness and freshness.

Decadent Desserts and Signature Ice Creams

Lai Rai’s dessert menu is a delightful showcase of creative ice cream flavors and refreshing sorbets that have garnered rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. The Avocado Ice Cream offers a creamy, subtly sweet experience made with ripe avocados, fresh cream, and just the right amount of sugar. Coffee enthusiasts will be drawn to the Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream, capturing the robust flavors of traditional Vietnamese coffee swirled with cream and sugar for a luscious finish. For a palate-cleansing option, the Ambarella Sorbet and Calamansi Sorbet present vibrant tropical fruit flavors balanced with sweetness and zest, providing refreshing interludes between bites. Don’t miss the Toasty Banana Leaf Ice Cream, a unique creation that infuses the essence of banana leaf with creamy sweetness, a true chef’s kiss praised by guests.

Beverages and Pairings

Complement your meal with Lai Rai’s curated collection of natural wines, meticulously selected to enhance the vibrant flavors of the menu. Whether you prefer a crisp, effervescent pet nat or a glass that accentuates the richness of the desserts, the knowledgeable staff will guide you to perfect pairings that elevate your dining experience. The welcoming atmosphere and expertly crafted menu make Lai Rai a standout spot to savor distinctive Vietnamese-inspired dishes alongside superb wines in New York City.

Menu Highlights at a glance

Giò Thủ Starter: Traditional Vietnamese head cheese with peppercorns and cartilage for rich texture.
Chicharron Starter: Crispy pork skin spiced to perfection.
Surf Clam in Coconut Milk Starter: Fresh surf clam with creamy coconut milk and herb dressing featuring shiso and Vietnamese coriander.
Avocado Ice Cream Dessert: Creamy avocado ice cream made with fresh cream and sugar.
Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream Dessert: Rich ice cream infused with traditional Vietnamese coffee and cream.
Ambarella Sorbet Dessert: Refreshing sorbet made from ambarella fruit, sugar, and water.
Calamansi Sorbet Dessert: A zesty and sweet sorbet crafted with calamansi fruit.
Toasty Banana Leaf Ice Cream Dessert: Unique ice cream infused with the distinctive flavor of banana leaf.