VIV 03-28-2012

Location: 717 9th Ave.

Time: 1pm

Feelings: Yes, there is yet another Thai restaurant in Hell's Kitchen. VIV, actually called themselves "v{iv}," is a reminder that Hell's Kitchen is indeed the new Chelsea. With a swanky, futuristic interior, house music, and a posh bar in the front, VIV gives a good competition to Room Service across the street.

They of course offer standard Midtown Thai fare as well as excellent lunch specials with enormous portions. I split my Pad See Ew with tofu ($6.95 with an appetizer) into lunch and dinner, and was still completely full from each meal. There are seven appetizers you can choose from, and my steamed vegetable dumplings were decent.

VIV would be a better place to try for dinner. The ambience shines accompanied by a DJ while the price remains completely affordable. They also have a backyard so you can have a drink after the dinner and hang out. If you are a foodie, this may not be the place for you. But if you are looking to have a great time at an economical price in Hell's Kitchen, VIV, I mean v{iv}, will certainly be your new favorite spot.