NaiYaRa's cuisine takes inspiration from Thailand's street vendors, who sell everything from skewers to noodles. The food is bright, delicious, and spicy — bold curries are toned down with hits of lime and coconut. The restaurant also serves fresh sushi and crudo flecked with gold flakes. But the main reason NaiYaRa is so damn busy every night is because of its chef/owner, Piyarat Potha Arreeratn, better known as Chef Bee. Like his namesake, Bee buzzes around the room, flying from the kitchen to the front of the house, stopping at table after table to speak with patrons and explain the origins of what they're eating. Thai beef jerky ($15) and Chiang Rai curry ($22) are likely recipes passed down from the chef's family back home. Don't be surprised if he asks to take a selfie with you as if you were a celebrity — to Bee you are. Speaking of celebrities, look around the room, and you're likely to spot famous athletes or chefs — many of whom are already regulars even though NaiYaRa has been open for only six months.
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