Cha Kee

- 43 Mott St, New York, NY 10013

In the vibrant heart of New York's Chinatown, Cha Kee stands out as a beloved destination for anyone seeking a true taste of Hong Kong. More than just a tea house, it's a bustling Cantonese restaurant and a quintessential Hong Kong-style café, also known as a cha chaan teng. This unique blend of identities means it caters to a wide range of cravings, from a quick and comforting morning meal to a relaxed dinner with friends. The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and trendy all at once, creating a space that feels both authentic and modern. Cha Kee is a place where you can find familiar Hong Kong favorites, like the iconic polo bao with butter, alongside inventive dishes that showcase a blend of Cantonese and Japanese culinary techniques. It’s a versatile spot that has become a staple for locals, college students, and tourists alike, drawn in by the promise of delicious food, a great tea selection, and a lively, welcoming environment. The moment you walk in, you’ll sense the energy of a classic Hong Kong cafe, with its friendly staff and a menu that’s designed to please all palates at any time of day.

What sets Cha Kee apart is its ability to serve multiple purposes throughout the day. It’s a go-to spot for breakfast, offering classic morning dishes that many New Yorkers find a comforting start to their day. For lunch and dinner, the menu expands to include a variety of Cantonese dishes and small plates, perfect for sharing. The staff are known for being pleasant and attentive, ensuring a positive dining experience even during busy times. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty plate of Black Pepper Beef Tenderloin, a light and satisfying Dan-Dan Noodle dish, or just a quick bite of their perfectly fried Salt and Pepper Squid, Cha Kee delivers. The restaurant’s reputation for fast service is a huge plus in a city that’s always on the go, making it a reliable choice for a quick meal. Despite its bustling nature, it maintains a cozy feel, making it a great place to sit and relax with a group or even for a solo dining experience. The menu is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Hong Kong, but with a clever, modern twist that keeps things interesting. This commitment to quality and a broad appeal is what makes Cha Kee a true gem in the heart of Chinatown, consistently hitting the spot for those who are into Cantonese snacks and cuisine.

Cha Kee is conveniently situated at 43 Mott St, New York, NY 10013, USA, placing it directly in one of the most vibrant and historically rich parts of the city. The location in Chinatown makes it easily accessible for anyone in the New York metropolitan area. This area is well-served by an extensive network of public transportation, including several subway lines and bus routes, all within a short walking distance from the restaurant. This makes it a perfect meeting point and a great dining option whether you're coming from work, exploring the neighborhood, or meeting up with friends. For those who prefer to drive, there is both free and paid street parking available, though as with any busy downtown area, finding a spot might require some patience. The restaurant's presence on Mott Street adds to its authentic charm, as it’s part of a bustling culinary and cultural hub. Its prime spot in Chinatown ensures that it's a popular choice not just for locals but also for tourists who are looking to experience a genuine Hong Kong-style café. The location is an essential part of its identity, providing a sense of place and authenticity that enhances the entire dining experience. Being in the heart of the action, Cha Kee offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal before or after exploring the many shops, markets, and sights that Chinatown has to offer.

Cha Kee offers a comprehensive range of services and dining options to accommodate all needs throughout the day. These services include:

• Delivery and Takeout, perfect for enjoying their food at home or on the go.
• Dine-in with comfortable seating, offering a casual and cozy atmosphere.
• A diverse menu of offerings, including alcohol, coffee, hard liquor, and a great tea selection.
• Late-night food options for those looking for a quick bite after hours.
• A wide variety of dining options from breakfast and brunch to lunch, dinner, and dessert.
• Accepts reservations, which is helpful for planning a meal with a larger group.
• Good for kids and provides high chairs, making it a family-friendly spot.
• Dogs are allowed in the outside seating area, catering to pet owners.

The versatility of Cha Kee is a key part of its appeal. Whether you're an early riser looking for a comforting breakfast or a night owl in need of a late-night snack, this spot has you covered. The menu features a variety of small plates, which are great for sharing and trying multiple dishes. The availability of alcohol, including hard liquor, also makes it a great spot for a casual drink with a meal. The ability to accept reservations is a convenient feature, especially for groups, ensuring a seamless dining experience. The staff's efficiency and attention to detail contribute to the overall positive service, ensuring that customers are well taken care of. While the restaurant is cash-only for payments, this is a minor detail in the face of the quality and service provided. The availability of high chairs and the overall family-friendly vibe make it an inclusive spot for all ages. It’s a place that adapts to your needs, whether you're dining solo, with a date, or with a large group of friends or family, providing excellent service in every scenario.

Cha Kee is celebrated for a number of features and highlights that make it a standout choice for dining in New York. These include:

• Fast service, which is highly appreciated by customers, especially during busy hours.
• A great tea selection, featuring classic Hong Kong-style milk tea, known for its smooth and rich flavor.
• Excellent coffee, making it a great place for a caffeine fix.
• A casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere that is both inviting and stylish.
• A menu that offers a fantastic blend of traditional Cantonese flavors and modern, creative dishes.
• Catering to a diverse crowd, including college students, families, groups, and tourists.
• A pet-friendly policy for outdoor seating, a nice touch for dog owners.
• A wide variety of dining options, from quick bites to full meals, covering all times of day.

The highlights speak for themselves. The focus on quality beverages, particularly the tea and coffee, sets it apart from many other Chinese restaurants. The famous Hong Kong-style milk tea is a must-try, offering an authentic taste of Hong Kong. The menu is a highlight in itself, with dishes like the Black Pepper Beef Tenderloin and the Lobster Fried Rice showcasing the kitchen's skill and creativity. The bolo bao with butter is a flaky, sweet, and tasty treat that has become a favorite among regulars. The staff's pleasant and attentive nature is a recurring theme in customer reviews, contributing to the overall positive experience. The trendy yet comfortable atmosphere makes it a great place to hang out and enjoy a meal at your own pace. It's the kind of place that feels like a hidden gem, yet is popular enough to always have a lively buzz. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a full meal, the combination of great food, excellent service, and a welcoming environment makes Cha Kee a truly memorable place to dine. The restaurant consistently delivers on its promise of authentic flavors and a genuine cha chaan teng experience right here in NYC.

For more information or to plan your visit, you can easily get in touch with Cha Kee. The physical address is 43 Mott St, New York, NY 10013, USA, placing it at a convenient and iconic Chinatown location. You can reach them by phone at (212) 577-2888 or +1 212-577-2888. This is especially useful for placing a takeout order or inquiring about their services. As the restaurant accepts reservations, it's a good idea to call ahead if you are planning to visit with a larger group, particularly during peak dining hours, to ensure you get a table. While the restaurant is a cash-only establishment, there are plenty of ATMs nearby in Chinatown. The restaurant's presence on both a local and a mobile phone number signifies its commitment to being accessible to its customers. The best way to truly experience Cha Kee is to visit the location in person and take in the unique atmosphere and delicious aromas. The location, combined with the ease of contact, makes it a hassle-free and appealing choice for your next dining adventure in the city.

What makes Cha Kee truly worth choosing for your next meal in New York? It’s the perfect blend of authenticity, comfort, and convenience. As a true Hong Kong-style café, it offers a dining experience that is both unique and deeply satisfying. The food is the main reason to go, with a menu that is consistently praised for its quality and flavor. Whether you’re a fan of the classic satay beef instant noodle dish for breakfast, the savory Salt and Pepper Squid, or the inventive fried rice options, every dish is made with care and attention to detail. The restaurant’s great tea selection, especially the authentic Hong Kong-style milk tea, is a standout feature that sets it apart from competitors. The atmosphere is another key reason, striking a perfect balance between casual and trendy, making it a comfortable place for any occasion. The fact that it is popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is a great option for solo diners, groups, and families, speaks to its versatility and broad appeal. It also caters to those looking for late-night food, a major plus in a city that never sleeps. While service can be a bit slow at times, as noted in some reviews, the overall quality of the food and the pleasant demeanor of the staff make any minor wait well worth it. Cha Kee is a place that feels like a neighborhood favorite, a spot that brings a slice of Hong Kong’s vibrant food culture to the heart of New York, making it an essential visit for anyone looking for great food and an authentic experience.

Cha Kee

43 Mott St, New York, NY 10013, USA