CHILI Introduce
In a city overflowing with culinary choices, finding a restaurant that offers a truly authentic and memorable experience can be a challenge. CHILI, located in the heart of Midtown, stands out as a vibrant and inviting destination for anyone with a love for bold, flavorful Chinese food. This isn't just another Asian restaurant; it's a dedicated Sichuan kitchen that brings the fiery, fragrant, and "mala" (numbing) sensations of Sichuan cuisine to life. The restaurant identifies as women-owned, and it has quickly established itself as a go-to spot for both a quick lunch and a relaxing dinner. It offers a trendy yet cozy atmosphere, making it a great place for a casual meal, a lively group gathering, or even a quiet solo dining experience.
The menu at CHILI is a testament to the richness of Sichuan culinary traditions. From the signature "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" (sliced beef and tripe) to the famous "Chungking Spicy Chicken," each dish is crafted to deliver a powerful and well-balanced flavor profile. The dim sum menu, featuring favorites like "Pork Dumplings in Chili Oil," is a popular starting point, with a sauce that one reviewer described as having "a perfect balance of spicy and sweet." The dedication to authentic flavors is a major draw, but the restaurant also embraces innovation with dishes like the "Truffle Beef Tenderloin," which offers a modern twist on a classic. The beverage list complements the spicy food well, with offerings including beer, wine, and cocktails. The fast service is a recurring highlight, ensuring that even during busy periods, you won't be left waiting long for your food.
CHILI's location at 13 E 37th St, New York, NY 10016, places it in a prime and accessible spot in Midtown East. This area is a bustling hub for both business and tourism, making the restaurant a convenient choice for a variety of patrons. Its proximity to major transportation routes and office buildings means it is a popular lunch spot, while its cozy atmosphere also makes it a desirable dinner destination. For those who choose to drive, paid street parking is available, though it can be scarce. The restaurant is also mindful of accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible seating available to accommodate guests with mobility needs. This commitment to being a welcoming space is further underscored by its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere and its appeal to diverse crowds, from groups of friends to solo diners.
Services Offered:
- Dine-in: Enjoy the full experience in the comfortable and trendy dining area, perfect for a long, relaxed meal.
- Outdoor Seating: Take advantage of the pleasant outdoor seating area for an al fresco dining experience.
- Takeout and Delivery: For those on the go, CHILI offers convenient takeout and no-contact delivery options, bringing their delicious food directly to your door.
- Catering: The restaurant also provides catering services for events and parties, perfect for bringing authentic Sichuan flavors to any gathering.
- Reservations: Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially for dinner, to ensure you get a table during peak hours.
Features and Highlights:
- Authentic Sichuan Cuisine: Specializing in the bold and fiery flavors of Sichuan province, with an emphasis on authentic dishes and high-quality ingredients.
- Fast Service: Known for its efficiency, ensuring a quick and pleasant dining experience.
- Great Food and Drinks: The menu offers a fantastic selection of classic and innovative dishes, complemented by a full bar with cocktails, beer, and wine.
- Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The restaurant’s ambiance is both casual and stylish, creating an enjoyable environment for any occasion.
- Inclusive Amenities: Features include a bar onsite, gender-neutral restrooms, and high chairs, making it suitable for a diverse range of customers, including families.
Contact Information:
Address: 13 E 37th St, New York, NY 10016
Phone: (646) 882-0666
What is worth choosing?
CHILI is an exceptional choice for anyone in New York seeking a genuine and high-quality Sichuan dining experience. What makes this restaurant truly stand out is its balance of tradition and modernity. The food is authentically spicy and flavorful, with dishes like the dumplings in chili oil and the beef scallion pancake receiving high praise from customers. The speedy service is a significant advantage, especially for those in the busy Midtown area looking for a quick yet satisfying lunch. Beyond the food, the atmosphere is inviting and trendy, making it a great place to hang out with friends or enjoy a quiet moment alone. The fact that it is a women-owned business and has a focus on inclusivity with features like a gender-neutral restroom and high chairs makes it a welcoming space for all. Whether you're a Sichuan food enthusiast or new to its bold flavors, CHILI offers an unforgettable meal that is well worth a visit, proving that authentic cuisine can thrive in the heart of Manhattan.
CHILI Details
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
CHILI Photos










CHILI Location
CHILI Reviews
cocktailsscallion pancakestrufflesmoked duckcumin lambsoft shell crabpork dumplingspurple riceshrimp dumplingsmargarita
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Had a nice brunch there. Service was top notch and atmosphere was pleasant- easy to have conversation there. The food was delish! Beef scallion pancake was crispy and flavorful. The dumpling in chili oil was my favorite; the chili sauce had a perfect balance of spicy and sweet. And the truffle beef had a nice presentation with a subtle truffle finish.
September 09 · Joan LeeHad a great dinner here. All the dishes were very yummy. The food arrived quickly after ordering. Both dumpling dishes were great! The spicy lamb dish was hot and spicy 🥵. Enjoyed the duck fried rice as well, could have used some more meat tho. Restaurant and music were very loud during dinner service.
June 08 · Nick P.Really lovely dinner. Our bartender suggested the refreshing gin cocktail made with elderberry and their signature chili margarita. The poached okra was so delicious. I cant wait to go back and try the rest of the menu!
July 29 · Martie MartinCHILI Chinese Restaurant – Midtown Manhattan, NYC👍👍👍👍👍Located at 13 East 37th Street in Midtown Manhattan, CHILI Chinese Restaurant specializes in authentic Sichuan cuisine, bringing bold spices and deep flavors to New York’s diverse dining scene. With a stylish yet minimal interior, this spot is ideal for spice lovers seeking a true Chinese culinary experience.FOOD QUALITY 👍We ordered Ma Po Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, Fried Rice with Preserved Vegetables, and White Rice. All dishes were flavorful and spicy, with authentic Sichuan heat and strong savory notes. The Ma Po Tofu was a highlight—bold, rich, and perfectly balanced.SERVICE & HOSPITALITY 👍Service was smooth and efficient. Our server, Pinnan C, ensured everything came out hot and in good order. Attentive staff with polite engagement.VALUE FOR MONEY 👍At $62.07 total for two, the price reflects the quality and authenticity of the meal. Considering the portion sizes and Midtown location, it was fairly priced.AMBIENCE & CLEANLINESS 👍Modern, clean, and intimate setting with a cozy atmosphere. A great spot for small group dinners or date night.LOCATION & ACCESSIBILITY 👍Centrally located between Fifth and Madison Ave, it’s an easy walk from Grand Central or Bryant Park.
July 05 · Raj VenI would highly recommend their food and cocktails. My friend and I had an amazingly delicious dinner though we greatly underestimated its portion sizes. My favorites were the spare ribs and spicy mushroom dish.The staff were very attentive, quick to give us spare utensils when we dropped it and swift with other accommodations despite the restaurant being packed.10/10 recommend, would definitely come here again 🤗
April 05 · Carol
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