It's no secret that good Thai food is hard to find in Manhattan (Queens is where the real-deal eateries reside). Although Land serves Americanized versions of Thai recipes, the dishes are quite good, with zesty green papaya salad, crispy wonton-wrapped shrimp parcels and juicy, pan-seared duck breast.
The two-course lunch special for $12.50 is a Gotham steal. It's a small, narrow space that's often crowded, so go early to avoid a long wait.