Gai Chicken & Rice

- 158 E 45th St, New York, NY 10017

In the bustling landscape of Midtown East, where time is a valuable commodity and a delicious, satisfying meal is a necessity, Gai Chicken & Rice stands out as a true culinary gem. Located at 158 E 45th St, this Thai and chicken restaurant has quickly become a go-to destination for New Yorkers seeking a flavorful and comforting meal. Gai is a specialist in the classic Thai street food dish, Khao Man Gai, which features succulent chicken served over a bed of fragrant ginger rice. It’s a simple concept executed with exceptional skill, making it a favorite for both lunch and dinner.

The ethos of Gai Chicken & Rice is rooted in quality and tradition. The core of their menu revolves around this classic Thai dish, prepared using a traditional slow-poaching technique that infuses every component with rich chicken flavor. As one customer noted, the meal comes with a "vegetable soup (broth only) which was excellent, and had a very rich flavor." This dedication to a time-honored recipe is what gives their food a distinct and comforting taste, proving that a focus on a single, well-made dish can create a truly memorable dining experience.

The atmosphere at Gai is casual and geared toward a fast-paced urban crowd. The business is primarily focused on takeout and delivery, making it an efficient choice for those in a hurry. One reviewer described it as a "takeout place only," noting the efficiency of the service. "We were in and out within 10 minutes," they said, even during a busy lunch rush. This emphasis on speed, combined with the quality of the food, makes Gai Chicken & Rice an ideal spot for a quick and satisfying meal.

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Gai Chicken & Rice is conveniently located at 158 E 45th St, New York, NY 10017. This location places it in the heart of Midtown East, a short walk from Grand Central Terminal, numerous office buildings, and major subway lines. Its central position makes it a perfect stop for a lunch break, a quick dinner on the way home, or a fast, fresh option for anyone in the area.

While the establishment is primarily for takeout, it’s easily accessible. For those traveling by car, paid street parking is available, although, like most of New York City, it can be competitive. Given its proximity to public transit, most patrons find it easy to reach by foot or subway, making it a highly convenient dining option.

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• Takeout: As a primary service, takeout is quick and efficient. You can order in-store using one of their two tablets or by phone, and your order will be ready in minutes, even during peak hours. This ensures a fast and hassle-free experience for a quick meal.

• Delivery: For the ultimate convenience, Gai Chicken & Rice offers delivery. Their service is described by a satisfied customer as a "solid delivery option," with orders arriving with generous portions and the signature, flavorful soup.

• No-Contact Delivery: In line with modern safety practices, the restaurant also provides a no-contact delivery option, ensuring peace of mind for those who prefer to have their food delivered without direct interaction.

• On-site Ordering: You can place your order directly at the counter or via the in-store tablets for a seamless and quick transaction.

• Dine-in: While the space is geared towards takeout, the restaurant offers the option to dine-in, providing a casual atmosphere for a quick, sit-down meal.

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• Specialty in Khao Man Gai: Gai Chicken & Rice’s strength lies in its specialization. By focusing on a single, iconic Thai dish, they have mastered the recipe, offering variations with different chicken preparations—from the traditional Steamed Dark Meat to the popular Crispy Fried Chicken.

• High-Quality Ingredients: The food is known for its high quality. The ginger rice is fragrant, the chicken is flavorful, and the accompanying broth is rich. One customer's review highlighted that the "roasted chicken was good," and the spicy fried chicken bowl with ginger rice was "really delicious."

• Quick and Efficient Service: This establishment is a perfect "quick bite" spot. The use of tablets for ordering and a streamlined process means that even when the place is busy, as one customer noted at 1 PM, "we were in and out within 10 minutes."

• Comfort Food and Generous Portions: Gai’s offerings are the epitome of comfort food. The meals, like the "Chicken Over Rice," are described as a "large enough portion" to be a satisfying and fulfilling meal for lunch or dinner.

• Diverse Chicken Options: The menu provides a variety of choices beyond the classic, including Crispy Fried Chicken, Roasted Chicken, and even a Mushroom Bowl. Customers can also opt for chicken wings or tenders, served with either rice or fries, offering a versatile selection for different cravings.

• Variety of Sauces: A crucial part of the Khao Man Gai experience is the sauce, and Gai offers a variety of side sauces to customize your meal and enhance the flavor, as mentioned in the menu descriptions.

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Address: 158 E 45th St, New York, NY 10017

Phone: (917) 675-6642

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Choosing Gai Chicken & Rice is a choice for quality, authenticity, and efficiency. It is the perfect spot for anyone in Midtown East who wants a delicious, healthy, and fast meal without compromising on flavor. The focus on a single specialty dish, Khao Man Gai, means they have perfected their craft. The moist, flavorful chicken and the aromatic ginger rice are the core of a meal that is both simple and deeply satisfying. The rich, flavorful broth that accompanies the meal is a testament to the care taken in the kitchen.

The efficiency of the service is a major draw. For busy professionals or tourists on a tight schedule, being able to order and receive a high-quality meal within minutes is invaluable. The customer reviews consistently highlight this, confirming the staff's dedication to providing a quick yet pleasant experience. Furthermore, the variety of options, from the crispy fried chicken to the classic steamed bowl and even chicken wings, ensures that there's something to appeal to everyone. The option to enjoy your meal via takeout, delivery, or a quick dine-in makes it adaptable to any schedule. For a taste of authentic Thai comfort food in the heart of NYC, Gai Chicken & Rice is an exceptional choice.

Gai Chicken & Rice

158 E 45th St, New York, NY 10017, USA