88 Canteen

- 58-46 Main St, Flushing, NY 11355

## Introduction / Overview

Nestled right on the celebrated Main Street in the heart of Flushing, Queens, 88 Canteen is a must-visit destination for New Yorkers seeking genuine Hong Kong-style cafe (Cha Chaan Teng) cuisine. Far from a typical Americanized Chinese takeout spot, this establishment is where the locals—including many college students and long-time residents—go for a taste of authentic Cantonese comfort food that spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It has established itself as a true neighborhood favorite, a sentiment echoed by its longevity and loyal customer base. The atmosphere is undeniably casual, reflecting the no-frills, focus-on-flavor ethos of traditional Hong Kong diners.

88 Canteen is more than just a place to grab a meal; it is a cultural fixture that serves local specialties, bringing the vibrant flavors and rapid-fire service of a Hong Kong-style eatery to New York City. The menu is expansive, offering everything from classic noodle soups and congee to Western-influenced HK-style sandwiches and baked rice dishes. Highlighted by its dedication to offering an exceptional selection of Coffee and a Great tea selection, it’s a perfect spot to start the day or enjoy a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. While seating can be limited, the quality, authenticity, and quick service make it a highly worthwhile "hole in the wall" gem on a very busy commercial strip.

Operating hours are typically extensive, opening early to cater to the morning rush, a testament to its popularity as a breakfast venue. The restaurant prides itself on being a source of deeply satisfying Comfort food and quick, efficient service for those on the move, solidifying its reputation as an essential part of the Flushing culinary landscape.

---

## Location and Accessibility

88 Canteen is strategically located at 58-46 Main St, Flushing, NY 11355, USA. This address places it squarely in a high-traffic, central area of Flushing, making it incredibly accessible for people traveling from across Queens and the greater New York metropolitan area.

### Getting There

The restaurant's Main Street location is convenient for public transit users, though slightly removed from the busiest section near the 7 train terminus. Numerous MTA bus lines traverse Main Street, providing direct links from many points in Queens. For drivers, the restaurant offers the advantage of Free street parking, a coveted amenity in this highly congested neighborhood, although spaces may be competitive, especially during peak dining hours. Furthermore, the establishment demonstrates its commitment to serving the entire community by featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring a welcoming environment for all patrons.

### Operating Hours

The extensive operating hours cater to New York's demanding schedule:

• Monday – Thursday: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM

These long hours, particularly the early 6:30 AM opening, confirm its status as a premier Breakfast restaurant and a reliable source of authentic Chinese food throughout the day.

---

## Services Offered

88 Canteen provides flexible service options to meet the needs of its diverse clientele, from quick grab-and-go orders to full dining experiences:

• Dining Options: Offers full Dine-in service, ideal for experiencing the casual, bustling atmosphere, as well as convenient Takeout.
• Delivery Service: Delivery is available, allowing customers in the local area to enjoy their Hong Kong favorites without leaving home or the office.
• All-Day Menu: The menu supports dining for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, ensuring a satisfying meal at any time.
• Catering to Crowds: Popular for Solo dining, and attracts a reliable crowd of both Locals and College students, indicating its status as a community staple and a value proposition.
• Family-Friendly: Considered Good for kids, making it a viable option for a family meal or a quick bite.
• Accessibility: Equipped with a Restroom and a Wheelchair accessible entrance, promoting comfort and inclusivity.

---

## Features / Highlights

What makes 88 Canteen stand out in Flushing's competitive culinary scene is its authentic focus and dedication to key Hong Kong cafe specialties:

• Authentic Hong Kong Cuisine: Highly regarded for serving local specialties and authentic dishes like Beef Chow Fun, traditional Congee, Pork Chop Sandwiches, and the highly praised HK milk tea, which is a customer favorite.
• Beverage Excellence: Recognized for having Great coffee and a Great tea selection, essential components of the Cha Chaan Teng experience, which often feature rich, robust milk teas.
• Integrated Bakery Items: The restaurant seamlessly combines savory dining with baked goods, offering fresh desserts and famous items like Pineapple Buns with Butter, Cupcakes, and Sponge Cakes.
• Breakfast Sets & Sandwiches: Specializing in classic Hong Kong breakfast items, including toast and egg sets, such as the recommended Condensed Milk Toast and Eggs, and specialty sandwiches like the Pork Chop Bun and Fish Filet Bun.
• Sizzling Plate and Baked Rice Dishes: The menu extends to hearty entrees like Beef in Black Pepper Sauce on Sizzling Plate and the popular Western-style Chinese fare like Baked Portuguese Chicken on Rice/Spaghetti, providing a full spectrum of Cantonese culinary offerings.
• Value and Quality: Known for providing Good food at decent prices, it offers genuine comfort food and satisfying portions, which keeps locals coming back.

---

## What is Worth Choosing

For a first-timer or a local looking for an authentic and satisfying meal at 88 Canteen, the best approach is to lean into their Hong Kong cafe roots. The restaurant has perfected several signature dishes that define this style of Chinese dining:

1. The Classic Breakfast Set: Start your day with the authentic HK experience. Customers rave about the Condensed Milk Toast and Eggs set, which typically includes your choice of the rich, strong HK-style milk tea (often described as 'banging') or coffee. It's a simple, perfect execution of a local classic.

2. Noodle and Rice Staples: For a larger meal, one cannot go wrong with the highly recommended Beef Ho Fun (Beef Chow Fun), praised for its smoky 'wok hei' flavor and excellent texture. Alternatively, the Yangzhou Fried Rice is noted for its quality. If you want a taste of both Eastern and Western influences, the Pork Chop Sandwich (specifically, the crispy pork chop on a soft, pillowy bun) is a standout.

3. Comfort Food Deep Dive: On a chilly day, an authentic bowl of Congee (rice porridge) or a serving of Fried Cruellers is the ultimate comfort food, reflecting the deep culinary traditions of Cantonese home cooking. Look for savory toppings like sliced fish or preserved egg.

A crucial point to remember before visiting is the Cash-only payment policy. While some may find this inconvenient, it's a common characteristic of many authentic, high-volume, neighborhood-focused eateries in New York City's ethnic enclaves, allowing them to keep prices low and service quick. Come prepared with cash to ensure a smooth, delicious experience at this Flushing staple.

---

## Contact Information

To place a takeout order, inquire about delivery, or check current operating hours, please use the following contact details:

Address: 58-46 Main St, Flushing, NY 11355, USA

Phone: (718) 886-1555

Mobile Phone: +1 718-886-1555

88 Canteen

58-46 Main St, Flushing, NY 11355, USA