When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Ugly Baby
Why Ugly Baby is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ugly Baby is a vibrant Thai restaurant located at 407 Smith Street in Brooklyn, New York, known for its bold, intensely spiced culinary offerings that represent Thailand's lesser-known regional dishes. Led by Chef Sirichai Sreparplarn, this restaurant offers an authentic taste adventure that invites diners to experience complex flavor profiles rich in heat, sweetness, and sourness. This intimate and casual space embraces communal dining culture by serving food family-style, encouraging sharing and lively conversation among friends. With a décor featuring colorful artwork and simple wooden tables, the atmosphere is both relaxed and culturally immersive, making it a perfect spot for gatherings that cater to adventurous palates. Signature dishes such as kua kling, a potent dry minced meat curry, and gaeng som, a tangy sour curry, highlight the chef’s dedication to traditional recipes rarely found in typical Thai-American eateries. Ugly Baby’s Michelin Bib Gourmand accolade emphasizes its commitment to delivering high-quality food at reasonable prices, making it not only a destination for spice enthusiasts but also a welcoming environment for those wishing to explore authentic Thai flavors in a friendly and energetic setting.
Here's what people think of Ugly Baby
As of recent, Ugly Baby holds a 4.7-star rating based on 130 reviews.
Reviews for Ugly Baby shine a spotlight on its remarkable ability to deliver genuinely authentic Thai flavors that challenge and excite the palate. Diners frequently praise the robust spice levels and the depth of flavor, noting Chef Sreparplarn’s expert balancing of heat with sweet and sour notes. The intimate setting and the family-style serving method receive positive mentions for fostering a convivial and communal dining experience. Many guests appreciate the restaurant's dedication to authenticity and the rarity of dishes on the menu that showcase less commonly encountered Thai regional specialties. However, some negative feedback centers on the intensity of the spiciness, which can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with or sensitive to hot food. A few reviewers mention that the straightforward presentation might seem less refined compared to more polished fine dining Thai establishments. Despite these minor critiques, the overwhelming majority of reviews commend Ugly Baby for its passion, authenticity, and value, evidenced by its impressive 4.7 rating from 130 reviews. Overall, the feedback confirms that Ugly Baby is a beloved Brooklyn eatery that rewards those seeking an authentic, fiery Thai culinary experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Cat
My nephew and I found this shop while wandering around on our trip to Seattle. We both left happy and excited about the cool new stuff we got. This place is nothing like Seattle’s typical cookie cutter gift shops where they all sell the same thing. They are locals selling their art products and also stuff from other local artists. The owner is very kind and welcoming, she even took the time to talk with us a while. If you’re looking for unique and hilarious, I highly recommend this shop. You’ll not only find something awesome that none of your friends have but you’ll be supporting local business and art community. It’s a win win!
Adam N
Had the pleasure of stopping by here on a trip to Pike Place market. The store is super cute inside & out and they had a lot of little kits for embroidery & cross stitch, some unique shower-friendly art, as well as tons of adorable stickers, keychains, and shirts. The employee at the register was very friendly & personable. Bonus: They do in fact have a number of products for actual babies!
bartika dutta
This gift store is brazen and fun! They have art items for bathrooms among other things, something that I wouldn’t have found easily! The store is definitely out of the ordinary and I picked up a blingy piece of art for the shower. The lady there was really friendly and fun!
ST C
Kind of overhyped, but VERY overpriced! $65 kids graphic sweatshirts? Please. You can get the same or better at a weekend art market. The rest of the kitschy art is appreciated for one fact: it definitely seems locally made and not (at least the majority of it) mass-produced. Compared to most shops around Pike’s Place, that’s a rarity. There was this cool artwork outside, though!
Meredith
I had to get some of the outfits for my baby here after finding out they had RINGER JERSEYS FOR BABIES! Now my baby can be a true ugly baby in his mustard romper. They have bibs too - I went initially looking for baby clothes but found other Christmas presents for older kids - definitely check out if you like needlecraft, art and local fashion
How to reach Ugly Baby
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Why Ugly Baby may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ugly Baby with your friends? Ugly Baby offers a unique experience that combines exceptional spicy Thai cuisine with a warm, vibrant atmosphere ideal for groups. If you and your friends love bold flavors and exciting culinary adventures, this is the perfect spot to gather and bond over unforgettable meals. The restaurant’s 4.7-star rating based on 130 reviews reflects a strong customer appreciation for its authentic dishes and inviting vibe. Beyond just food, dining here becomes an event—a shared sensory journey through fiery curries, tangy salads, and aromatic soups that encourages lively conversation and collective enjoyment. It’s a place where the intensity of the food matches the vibe of friendship, sparking both heat and happiness around the table. The setting also supports a comfortable social atmosphere, making it easy for groups to chat, laugh, and create lasting memories together. Whether you're planning a casual get-together or a special celebration with family or friends, Ugly Baby provides the perfect backdrop for reconnecting and enjoying great food in a setting that feels both intimate and inclusive.
What kinds of activities and experiences make Ugly Baby perfect for group meetups? The main attraction here is the culinary adventure—sharing and enjoying highly crafted Thai dishes bursting with spice and flavor creates a memorable communal experience. The menu is thoughtfully designed to include a variety of options that cater to different spice tolerances, allowing everyone to find something they enjoy while encouraging a bit of culinary daring. Dishes such as the intensely spicy duck salad or the fiery shrimp paste relish are great conversation starters, sparking intrigue and excitement at the table. Plus, the rotating seasonal menu ensures no two visits feel the same, making repeat gatherings feel fresh and special. The impressive selection of local beers and wines also enhances the social aspect, letting groups toast and cool down between spicy bites, further enhancing the shared dining experience. The intimate but lively ambiance encourages interaction, enabling groups to enjoy both the food and each other’s company comfortably. This combination of great food, drink, and atmosphere makes Ugly Baby an excellent venue for friends and family looking for a fun and flavorful outing.
Why is Ugly Baby’s menu a highlight for food lovers and group gatherings alike? The menu at Ugly Baby is crafted with a focus on bringing intense, authentic Thai flavors to the table, featuring dishes that balance fiery heat with fresh herbs and complex seasonings. This dynamic approach delights adventurous eaters who enjoy testing their spice tolerance as well as those who appreciate the craftsmanship behind traditional Thai cooking. Favorites like the perfectly poached snapper soup with tamarind and lemongrass or the crispy, turmeric-seasoned sea bream provide flavorful, memorable highlights that cater to diverse palates within a group. The variety ensures that everyone, from spice fiends to more cautious diners, can find dishes that please them, fostering an inclusive dining experience. Sharing plates encourage interaction, allowing groups to sample multiple flavors and engage in conversations about the food. The commitment to freshness and seasonality also means each dish bursts with vibrant, high-quality ingredients, making every bite exciting and satisfying. The menu is truly a centerpiece of the group experience at Ugly Baby, turning a meal into a culinary adventure.
How does the atmosphere at Ugly Baby enhance your group’s dining experience? Ugly Baby offers a warm and energetic environment that complements the boldness of its cuisine and provides a welcoming space for socializing. The location in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, with its casual yet chic decor, strikes a balance between comfort and style. This vibe encourages guests to relax and enjoy themselves, perfect for long conversations over shared plates. The staff are known for being attentive and accommodating, adding a personal touch that makes group gatherings feel special and well cared for. The restaurant’s size is intimate enough to feel cozy but spacious enough to accommodate groups without feeling cramped. The lively yet approachable mood creates an ideal setting for celebrations, casual nights out, or meaningful get-togethers with friends and family. Overall, Ugly Baby’s atmosphere fosters connection and warmth—key ingredients in making any meet-up feel memorable.
What makes Ugly Baby’s drink selection ideal for cooling down and complementing spicy dishes? One of the standout features of Ugly Baby is its thoughtfully curated beverage menu featuring a wide array of local craft beers and an interesting wine list. These drinks are perfectly chosen to compliment the restaurant’s famously spicy dishes. Local craft beers, such as those from Talea and Other Half breweries, offer a variety of flavor profiles from crisp and refreshing to more robust options that can stand up to the intense flavors of the food. For guests looking to moderate the heat, these cold beers provide a much-needed cooling effect that enhances enjoyment of the meal, encouraging longer, more relaxed group dining experiences. The wine list also offers selections that pair well with spicy Thai food, balancing vibrant flavors and cleansing the palate between bites. Availability of such a diverse and high-quality drink menu not only satisfies different tastes within groups but also elevates the overall dining ritual—turning a spicy meal into a full sensory delight shared among friends.
Why is Ugly Baby a great choice for a unique cultural experience with your loved ones? Beyond food and atmosphere, Ugly Baby offers an authentic taste of Thai cuisine rarely matched in New York. Its focus on traditional flavors with a contemporary twist invites guests not only to eat but also to learn and appreciate a culinary culture, enhancing the group’s overall experience. Gathering here allows friends and family to explore bold and unfamiliar dishes together, promoting shared discovery and conversation. The experience is enriched by the care taken in crafting dishes that pay homage to Thai culinary heritage while embracing seasonal and local ingredients. This cultural immersion through food strengthens bonds among diners by making the meal an event of curiosity and delight rather than just nourishment. For groups seeking more than just a dinner location, Ugly Baby presents a dining adventure that stimulates all senses and fosters connection through a meaningful cultural exchange.
How does Ugly Baby accommodate diverse dietary preferences and group needs? Ugly Baby’s menu, while celebrated for its spiciness, also thoughtfully includes dishes and options that cater to varied dietary preferences, making it accessible for groups with diverse tastes. While adventurous diners might gravitate to the fiery specialties, there are also milder dishes and options that feature fresh vegetables, seafood, and balanced flavors to please those who prefer less heat. The restaurant staff are known to be knowledgeable and accommodating when it comes to customizing orders to fit dietary restrictions or spice tolerance, helping groups find satisfying choices for everyone. This flexibility alleviates common challenges when dining out with a heterogeneous group and ensures that no one feels left out or overwhelmed by the menu choices. Additionally, the communal style encourages sharing, allowing diners to sample multiple dishes and find their favorites without pressure to commit to a single plate. Ugliest Baby strikes a balance between offering authentic, intense flavor and catering to group dynamics, facilitating an enjoyable dining experience for all.
Why do repeat visitors continue to choose Ugly Baby for group gatherings? Many patrons return to Ugly Baby not only for the quality of food but also for the consistently high level of service and the evolving menu that keeps every visit exciting. The restaurant’s commitment to seasonal ingredients and rotating selections means that frequent guests discover something new each time, preventing the experience from feeling repetitive. This variety acts as an incentive for groups to meet regularly, knowing each outing will bring fresh flavors and surprises. The staff’s attentive and friendly approach also builds strong rapport with diners, fostering a sense of community and comfort that keeps groups coming back. The combination of culinary excellence, warm service, and an inviting atmosphere creates a reliable destination for meaningful social experiences. These factors contribute to Ugly Baby’s strong reputation as a go-to spot for memorable group meals, both for new visitors and loyal regulars alike.
How does Ugly Baby’s location and neighborhood contribute to its appeal for meetups? Situated in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, Ugly Baby benefits from a vibrant, walkable neighborhood known for its charming urban feel and diverse dining options. The area’s accessibility by public transit and availability of nearby parking make it easy for groups to gather without logistical hassles. Carroll Gardens itself has a friendly, community-oriented vibe that is mirrored inside Ugly Baby, enhancing the overall welcoming feel of the meetup. Its location also allows for post-meal activities—whether groups want to stroll nearby parks, enjoy dessert at local bakeries, or explore other neighborhood attractions. This blend of accessibility, neighborhood charm, and proximity to other social spots adds convenience and variety to a night out, making Ugly Baby not just a restaurant choice but a central hub for group occasions in Brooklyn. The locale enhances the experience by situating the meal within a lively and engaging environment.