Hop Kee Restaurant

- 21 Mott St, New York, NY 10013

Stepping into Hop Kee Restaurant is like taking a step back in time. Tucked away on the vibrant, bustling streets of Mott Street in the heart of New York City's Chinatown, this establishment is more than just a place to eat—it's a living piece of neighborhood history. For generations of New Yorkers, Hop Kee has been the go-to destination for authentic, no-frills Cantonese cuisine, a place where the flavors are as rich and deep as the culture that surrounds it. Unlike many trendy new spots, Hop Kee offers a genuine, traditional dining experience that has earned it a loyal following of locals, families, and even seasoned tourists who are in on the secret.

The restaurant's enduring appeal lies in its unwavering commitment to quality and tradition. In a city where restaurants come and go, Hop Kee's longevity is a testament to its consistent excellence. It's a place where you can find college students grabbing a late-night bite alongside families sharing a weekend feast and seniors who have been coming for decades. This blend of patrons creates a unique, welcoming atmosphere that feels both casual and profoundly authentic. The menu, while extensive, is a showcase of classic Cantonese dishes, with a particular emphasis on fresh seafood and expertly prepared meat and vegetable plates.

This article is designed to be your guide to all things Hop Kee. We'll dive into what makes this restaurant a local legend, from its convenient location in the heart of Chinatown to its vast menu and the specific dishes that have earned it a legendary reputation. We'll also provide all the necessary information for planning your visit, whether you're looking for a quick bite or a memorable family dinner. So, if you're a local looking to rediscover a classic or a visitor searching for a true New York dining experience, read on to learn why Hop Kee Restaurant should be at the top of your list.

Location and Accessibility

Hop Kee Restaurant is situated at 21 Mott Street, New York, NY 10013, a prime location in one of the most iconic and culturally rich neighborhoods in the world: Chinatown. This address places it squarely in the middle of a vibrant community, surrounded by markets, tea shops, and other historic establishments. Its downtown location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city. For those using public transportation, the restaurant is a short walk from several major subway stations. The Canal Street station serves the N, Q, R, W, 6, J, and Z lines, making it a central transit hub. The Grand Street station (B, D trains) is also nearby, as is the Bowery station (J, Z trains). This extensive subway network ensures that whether you're coming from the Upper East Side, Brooklyn, or beyond, getting to Hop Kee is convenient and straightforward.

For those driving, it's worth noting that while street parking is available, it can be paid and limited, especially during peak hours. Exploring the surrounding area on foot is highly recommended, as the neighborhood itself is a major part of the experience. The ground-floor entrance and accessible layout make the restaurant welcoming to a wide range of visitors. Being an integral part of the Mott Street landscape, Hop Kee is a natural stopping point for both locals and tourists exploring the historical and culinary delights of Chinatown.

Services Offered

Hop Kee offers a comprehensive range of dining services to meet the needs of its diverse clientele, from a quick and easy takeout option to a full-service dining experience. The restaurant is well-equipped to handle various needs, whether it's a solo diner looking for a quick bite or a large group celebrating a special occasion.

• Dine-In: Hop Kee offers comfortable seating and full table service for a traditional restaurant experience. The atmosphere is casual and historic, perfect for a relaxed meal with family and friends. The friendly staff provides quick and efficient service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.

• Takeout: For those on the go or who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, Hop Kee offers a convenient takeout service. This is an excellent option for busy professionals, families, or anyone looking to enjoy authentic Cantonese food without the sit-down wait. The restaurant is well-known for its fast service, making the takeout process seamless.

• Reservations: Hop Kee accepts reservations, a particularly useful service for groups or during busy times. This feature allows patrons to plan their visit and avoid potential wait times, making it a great option for special occasions or when dining with a large party.

• Offerings: The menu is extensive and includes a wide variety of offerings. In addition to their main dishes, they offer a great selection of beers and other alcoholic beverages to complement the meal. The focus on "comfort food" and "small plates" ensures there's something for everyone, whether you're seeking a full meal or just a quick snack.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets Hop Kee apart from other Chinese restaurants in New York is a combination of its historical significance and its commitment to a few key principles. These features have solidified its status as a local favorite.

• Authentic Cantonese Cuisine: Hop Kee is a true Cantonese restaurant, offering dishes that are prepared using traditional methods and authentic flavors. This isn't Americanized Chinese food; it's the real deal. The quality of the food is consistently praised by those who grew up on Cantonese cooking, signaling its authenticity and excellence.

• Historic and Casual Atmosphere: The restaurant has a unique, historic charm that makes it stand out. It feels like an old-school New York institution, and the casual atmosphere makes it a comfortable place for anyone, from college students to families. This is a place where the focus is on the food and the company, not on a flashy decor.

• Fast Service: Despite the frequent crowds, Hop Kee is well-known for its remarkably fast and efficient service. The staff is adept at managing a busy dining room and ensuring that orders are taken and delivered promptly. This is a major highlight, especially for those on a tight schedule.

• Serves Local Specialty: Hop Kee is famous for its local specialty dishes. The "Chow Fun" is repeatedly mentioned in reviews as a can't-miss item, with patrons calling it "the best beef chow fun in Chinatown." This dedication to perfecting a few key dishes elevates the entire menu and gives customers a reason to return again and again.

• Great Tea Selection: A highlight for many diners is the quality and variety of the tea selection. A good cup of tea is a crucial part of an authentic Chinese dining experience, and Hop Kee's focus on this detail speaks to their commitment to tradition and quality.

Contact Information

For those planning a visit or needing to get in touch, here is the essential contact information for Hop Kee Restaurant.

Address: 21 Mott St, New York, NY 10013, USA

Phone: (212) 964-8365

Mobile Phone: +1 212-964-8365

These details will help you find the restaurant easily and make any necessary arrangements, such as reservations for larger parties.

What is Worth Choosing

While the entire menu at Hop Kee is a testament to quality, there are a few items that stand out and are considered "must-try" dishes by long-time patrons and food critics alike. The most highly-praised dish is undoubtedly the Beef Chow Fun. This dish is celebrated for its excellent quality, from the perfectly cooked, wide rice noodles to the tender and flavorful beef. The fact that it is praised by individuals who grew up eating authentic Cantonese food speaks volumes about its quality. Opting for the Beef Chow Fun is not just choosing a meal; it is choosing a legendary dish that embodies the very essence of Hop Kee's culinary excellence.

Beyond the Chow Fun, it is worth choosing to explore the seafood offerings, as Hop Kee specializes in this type of cuisine. The menu features a wide array of options, from Lobster with Black Bean Sauce to Salted Shrimp with Hot Peppers and the seasonal Seafood in a Basket. For those who enjoy rich and savory flavors, the Pork Chop Peking Style or the Pan Fried Flounder are also excellent choices. The wide variety ensures that every member of a group will find something to love. Finally, what's worth choosing is the overall experience itself. Dining at Hop Kee is choosing to immerse yourself in a piece of New York's culinary history, surrounded by a true Chinatown atmosphere. You're choosing a place where fast service, great food, and a welcoming environment come together to create a truly memorable meal.

Hop Kee Restaurant

21 Mott St, New York, NY 10013, USA