Monkey Thief

- 401 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036

In a city filled with countless brunch options, Monkey Thief stands out as a true hidden gem. This unique establishment, located in the vibrant Hell's Kitchen neighborhood, is much more than your average brunch restaurant—it’s a Pan-Asian-inspired cocktail bar that brings a creative and delicious twist to the weekend ritual. The space is designed to be small and cozy, yet trendy and beautiful, with a design that evokes Southeast Asian vibes and sets a distinctive tone from the moment you walk in. The culinary team takes classic brunch dishes and infuses them with bold, exciting flavors, making for a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re a local looking for a new spot or a visitor hoping to find a place that feels authentically New York, Monkey Thief delivers a refreshing and flavorful experience that is anything but ordinary. It’s a place where you can find a lively atmosphere and food that is both inventive and satisfying.

What makes Monkey Thief a special destination is its dual identity as a brunch restaurant and a cocktail bar. This means you can expect not only fantastic food but also an expertly crafted beverage program. The focus on creative cocktails, which incorporate unique Asian ingredients, elevates the dining experience. While the space is known for being lively and having a "buzz," this is part of its charm. It's the perfect setting for groups and people who enjoy a vibrant, social atmosphere rather than a quiet, low-key meal. The menu is a delightful exploration of flavors, with a focus on small plates that are perfect for sharing, allowing you to sample a wide array of the kitchen's creative dishes. From savory bites to innovative takes on brunch favorites, Monkey Thief promises a dynamic and delicious start to your day. The establishment's proud identity as an Asian-owned business also adds to its unique character, making it a place where you can support a diverse local business while enjoying a top-tier meal.

Monkey Thief is conveniently located at 401 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036. This address places it in the lively and dynamic Hell's Kitchen neighborhood, just a short walk from Times Square and the Theatre District. Its proximity to these major attractions makes it an ideal spot for a pre-theater meal or a post-show drink. The area is well-served by public transportation, providing easy access from all over the city. Whether you're coming from the subway or a bus, getting to Monkey Thief is simple and straightforward.

The restaurant is committed to ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, as well as a wheelchair-accessible restroom and seating. For those arriving by car, both free and paid street parking are available, though street parking in this area can be competitive. The restaurant’s thoughtful amenities and prime location make it an accessible and convenient choice for a diverse range of customers, from locals to tourists. The welcoming and inclusive environment extends to its physical design, ensuring everyone can enjoy the unique space and delicious offerings without any accessibility concerns.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full menu and vibrant atmosphere with table service.

• Takeout: For those on the go, the restaurant offers takeout services, allowing you to enjoy your meal elsewhere.

• Delivery: Monkey Thief provides both standard and no-contact delivery options, bringing its delicious food and drinks directly to your doorstep.

• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, making it easy to plan your visit and secure a table, which is highly recommended due to the cozy size of the space.

• Great Cocktails: As a cocktail bar, Monkey Thief excels in its drink program. The cocktails are not only delicious but also highly creative, with unique flavor combinations that reflect a Pan-Asian influence. Reviews praise the swift service for drinks, even during busy times.

• Innovative Food Menu: The menu offers a fun and flavorful twist on brunch and other dishes. While a brief menu, it is packed with innovative small plates and entrees. Highlights include the Beef Koi, Chicken Bao, and Fried Chicken, which a customer review notes is "filled with taste" and "tender."

• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The space is described as having a beautiful design with a warm, cozy feel. Its trendy aesthetic and energetic buzz make it a popular spot for groups and a lively night out, though it may not be ideal for a quiet meal.

• Inclusive Environment: Monkey Thief identifies as an LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender-safe space, creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for all. It attracts a crowd of locals and groups, making it a place where everyone can feel at home.

• Fast Service: Customers consistently praise the fast service from the wait staff, from bringing out drinks quickly to clearing plates efficiently. This ensures a smooth dining experience, even when the restaurant is busy.

• Asian-Owned Business: The establishment is proud to be an Asian-owned business, with a menu and design program inspired by the founders' travels throughout Asia.

Address: 401 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036

Phone: (212) 245-0675

Choosing Monkey Thief is a decision to embrace a unique and flavorful dining experience. While some reviews mention the small space and potential for a loud atmosphere, these qualities are part of what makes it a trendy, lively spot. The food, which is consistently praised for being "absolutely delicious" and "packed with flavor," is the main draw. The creative use of ingredients and unique plating, as noted in customer reviews, sets it apart from typical brunch fare. Dishes like the Beef Koi and the Fried Chicken are a testament to the kitchen's ability to deliver bold and exciting tastes that are truly worth trying.

The beverage program is another compelling reason to visit. As a cocktail bar, Monkey Thief offers drinks that are as inventive as the food. The swift and attentive service, particularly for drinks, ensures that you are never left waiting. This efficiency is a major highlight and contributes to a great overall experience. While one review noted an issue with the lamb burger's portion size, this seems to be an isolated concern, and the vast majority of feedback on the food is overwhelmingly positive. The menu, largely consisting of small plates, is perfect for sharing and allows for a fun exploration of different flavors with your group. The staff's quickness and attentiveness in clearing plates and refilling water are small details that make a big difference.

For New Yorkers seeking a new brunch spot that goes beyond the ordinary, Monkey Thief is an excellent choice. Its fusion of Asian flavors, its creative cocktail menu, and its lively, cozy atmosphere make it a memorable destination. The fact that it is an Asian-owned, LGBTQ+-friendly establishment adds to its appeal as a place that is not only delicious but also welcoming and inclusive. The overall consensus from customers is that Monkey Thief is a hidden gem that delivers on both food and drinks, making it a great place for a fun, energetic, and satisfying brunch or evening out.

Monkey Thief

401 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036, USA