HUPO琥珀 | Best Szechuan Food in LIC

- 10-07 50th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101

Introduction / Overview

For New Yorkers in search of authentic and vibrant Szechuan cuisine, HUPO琥珀 stands out as a premier destination in Long Island City. This restaurant has garnered a well-deserved reputation, including a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction, for its ability to deliver excellent, high-quality food at a reasonable price point. HUPO’s focus is on showcasing the bold, complex, and sometimes fiery flavors that define Szechuan cooking, all within a modern and inviting setting. The interior is characterized by a clean and simple aesthetic, with no-frills decor that keeps the focus squarely on the culinary experience.

HUPO offers a wide array of dishes, from classic entrees to a delightful selection of dim sum and cold appetizers. The menu is thoughtfully designed to appeal to both seasoned Szechuan food lovers and those new to the cuisine. The chefs at HUPO are skilled at balancing the signature “ma-la” (numbing and spicy) flavors, ensuring that the heat enhances, rather than overwhelms, the dishes. While some patrons have noted that the service can be a bit reserved, the consensus is that the quality of the food more than compensates for it. The restaurant’s popularity is a testament to its delicious offerings, with many customers returning for their favorites and to explore new dishes. HUPO has become a must-visit spot in Western Queens for anyone looking for a genuine Szechuan culinary journey.

Location and Accessibility

HUPO is conveniently located at 10-07 50th Ave, in the bustling and rapidly developing neighborhood of Long Island City, NY. Its location is easily accessible for both locals and tourists, making it a popular spot for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is just a short walk from several major subway lines and bus routes, providing easy access from Manhattan, Brooklyn, and other parts of Queens. This central location in Long Island City’s vibrant scene makes it a great choice for a meal before or after visiting nearby attractions or events. Paid street parking is available in the vicinity, though it's always wise to allow for extra time, as parking in a popular NYC neighborhood can be competitive.

The restaurant is also committed to ensuring that all patrons can enjoy its offerings. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible seating, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. The dining space, while narrow and long, is laid out to accommodate a variety of guests. Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially for dinner, which can help ensure a smooth dining experience, particularly for groups. The combination of its convenient location and thoughtful accessibility features makes HUPO a welcoming destination for a diverse range of customers.

Services Offered

• Delivery: Enjoy the authentic Szechuan flavors from the comfort of your home through their convenient delivery service.
• Takeout: For a quick and delicious meal on the go, the takeout option is perfect.
• Dine-in: The trendy yet cozy atmosphere is ideal for a relaxed meal with friends, family, or as a solo diner.
• Table service: The restaurant offers full table service for a traditional dining experience.
• Catering: While not explicitly stated on the provided info, the nature of their menu and services suggests they may offer catering for events.
• Reservations: Reservations are accepted and recommended for dinner to ensure you get a table, especially for larger groups.

Features / Highlights

• Michelin Bib Gourmand: This prestigious distinction highlights HUPO’s commitment to excellent food and great value.
• Authentic Szechuan Cuisine: The restaurant specializes in a wide range of authentic Szechuan dishes, from spicy classics to more subtle flavors.
• Diverse Menu: The menu features a broad selection of entrées, dim sum, cold appetizers, soups, and even American-Chinese favorites, ensuring there's something for everyone.
• Great Tea and Cocktail Selection: HUPO serves as a cocktail bar and is noted for its great tea selection, perfect for pairing with your meal. They also offer a full bar with beer, wine, and hard liquor.
• Happy Hour Food: For those looking for a great deal, the restaurant offers happy hour food, and a daily lunch special menu from Monday to Friday.
• Wheelchair Accessible: With a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and restroom, HUPO is an inclusive dining destination.
• Good for Groups: The restaurant is well-suited for groups, making it a great choice for a family dinner or a get-together with friends.

Contact Information

Address: 10-07 50th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101

Phone: (718) 255-6722

What is worth choosing

HUPO stands out as a top choice in Long Island City for several compelling reasons. The food is the main attraction, with a quality that rivals some of the best Chinese restaurants in the city. The braised beef noodle soup is a great example, praised for its rich broth and tender beef. The Dan Dan Noodles are another standout dish, with perfectly cooked noodles and flavorful minced beef. Even more simple dishes like the Beef with Broccoli are executed with a high level of skill, with the beef being "velvetized" and delicious. The menu's vast selection means you can try a little bit of everything, from the fiery Chungking Spicy Chicken to the more comforting Grandma's Tofu.

What makes HUPO particularly worth choosing is its ability to cater to different preferences. While it specializes in spicy Szechuan cuisine, many dishes can be prepared without spice upon request, making it accessible to those with a milder palate. The presence of a cocktail bar and a great tea selection also adds to its appeal, offering a more well-rounded dining experience than a typical Chinese restaurant. While some find the prices a bit on the higher side, the quality of the ingredients and the flavorful preparation justify the cost. The restaurant's recognition with a Michelin Bib Gourmand is a strong testament to its value and culinary excellence. For its delicious and authentic food, diverse menu, and sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance, HUPO is a fantastic choice for a memorable meal in Long Island City, whether you're a local or just visiting.

HUPO琥珀 | Best Szechuan Food in LIC

10-07 50th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA