It’s Friday night. The week has been long, and the last thing you want to do is cook. The craving hits – that familiar yearning for crispy egg rolls, savory noodles, and the comforting umami of Chinese cuisine. If you happen to be on or near 87th Street, you’re in luck. This bustling thoroughfare boasts a delightful array of Chinese restaurants, each offering its unique spin on classic dishes and a taste of culinary tradition. But with so many options, how do you choose?
Chinese food has long held a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of people around the world. Its blend of sweet, savory, spicy, and sour flavors, combined with the quick-service appeal, has made it a go-to choice for everything from casual weeknight dinners to celebratory feasts. The restaurants on 87th street offer everything from quick takeout to full service. So the question is what are you in the mood for?
This guide is your passport to navigating the vibrant Chinese food scene on 87th Street. Whether you’re seeking a quick and satisfying takeout meal, a relaxed sit-down dining experience, or exploring vegetarian options, this article will highlight the best places and must-try dishes, helping you discover your new favorite culinary haunt. Prepare to embark on a delicious journey!
Quick and Casual Chinese Cuisine: Perfect for Takeout
Sometimes, all you need is a convenient and affordable meal to enjoy at home. Several establishments on 87th Street cater specifically to those seeking a quick and satisfying takeout experience.
Let’s start with Golden Dragon. Located mid-block, Golden Dragon is a small, no-frills takeout spot known for its consistently delicious food and fast service. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; this place packs a serious flavor punch. The price range is incredibly budget-friendly, making it a popular choice for students and families alike.
When ordering from Golden Dragon, be sure to try their General Tso’s Chicken. This dish is a true classic for a reason. It is expertly fried to achieve the perfect crispness, then coated in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce that will leave you wanting more. The chicken pieces are generously sized, and the sauce has just the right amount of kick. For a more comforting option, the Lo Mein is also a standout. The noodles are perfectly cooked and tossed with a savory sauce and a generous helping of vegetables. Pair it with their crispy spring rolls for the perfect takeout meal.
Golden Dragon excels at speed, price, and convenience. You can get a satisfying meal here without breaking the bank, and the food is consistently good. However, be aware that seating is extremely limited, and the ambiance is very basic. This is purely a takeout operation. But if you’re looking for delicious Chinese food on 87th street to enjoy at home, Golden Dragon is a solid choice.
Next up is China Wok, another reliable takeout option on 87th Street. China Wok boasts a slightly larger menu than Golden Dragon, offering a wider variety of dishes to choose from. Their prices are still quite reasonable, making it a great option for a budget-friendly meal.
A must-try dish at China Wok is their Orange Chicken. It is made with chunks of crispy chicken coated in a zesty orange-flavored sauce. The sauce has a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that make it incredibly addictive. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, try their Kung Pao Chicken. This dish features tender chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy chili sauce. It’s a flavorful and satisfying option that will leave your taste buds tingling. Don’t forget to add an order of their crab rangoons, which are perfectly crispy and filled with a creamy cheese mixture.
China Wok’s menu diversity and consistently prepared dishes make it a good takeout choice. China Wok does well with delivery and has a solid track record on food arrival times. However, similar to Golden Dragon, seating is limited, and you won’t find an elaborate or exciting ambiance.
Relaxed Dining Experiences: Savoring Chinese Flavors
For those seeking a more immersive and leisurely dining experience, several sit-down Chinese restaurants on 87th Street offer a welcoming atmosphere and an extensive menu of delectable dishes.
Szechuan Garden stands out as a local favorite. This restaurant boasts a more upscale, family-friendly dining room, making it perfect for a special occasion or a relaxed meal with friends and family. The price range falls into the mid-range category, reflecting the higher quality ingredients and attentive service.
If you’re new to Szechuan cuisine, start with their Mapo Tofu. This dish is a Szechuan classic, featuring silky tofu simmered in a spicy and savory sauce. The sauce has a delightful numbing sensation, thanks to the Szechuan peppercorns, which adds an extra layer of complexity to the flavor. For a more noodle-centric option, try their Dan Dan Noodles. These noodles are tossed in a rich and spicy sauce with ground pork, preserved vegetables, and sesame paste. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s sure to please. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish to share with a group, consider ordering the Peking Duck (if available – it’s best to call ahead to confirm). This dish features a whole roasted duck with crispy skin, served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. It’s a culinary experience that’s not to be missed.
Szechuan Garden wins with its wider menu selection, a more relaxing atmosphere, and suitability for groups. The prices are higher and require budgeting if you want to be sensible with your spending. You may also need to make reservations during peak hours, so consider that before you just show up.
Another excellent sit-down dining option on 87th Street is Canton House. Canton House offers a more traditional Cantonese dining experience, with a menu that features a wide variety of classic dishes. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
A must-try dish at Canton House is their Honey Walnut Shrimp. This dish features lightly battered and fried shrimp tossed in a creamy honey sauce and topped with candied walnuts. The combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures makes it incredibly irresistible. If you’re in the mood for noodles, their Chow Fun is also a standout. These wide rice noodles are stir-fried with your choice of protein (beef, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables) and a savory sauce. It’s a classic Cantonese dish that’s sure to satisfy. Don’t forget to try their Dim Sum, which is available during lunch hours. They offer a wide variety of steamed and fried dumplings, buns, and rolls, perfect for sharing.
Canton House is great for its traditional flavors and welcoming ambiance, perfect for family gatherings. The service is reliably attentive, and you’ll find parking in the area is also typically good. The prices may run high, so be prepared to spend for the experience.
Considering Dietary Preferences and Practicalities
The restaurants on 87th Street are also increasingly accommodating to different dietary preferences and practical considerations.
Finding delicious vegetarian Chinese food on 87th Street is easier than you might think. Many of the restaurants mentioned above offer a variety of vegetable-based dishes, often featuring tofu, mushrooms, and other plant-based proteins. Golden Dragon and China Wok both have vegetarian options like Vegetable Lo Mein and Tofu with Broccoli. Szechuan Garden also boasts vegetarian dishes like Mapo Tofu and Vegetarian Spring Rolls. Always be sure to confirm with the restaurant that your chosen dishes are prepared without any animal products.
In today’s world, delivery services are crucial for convenience. Most of the restaurants on 87th Street offer delivery through popular apps like Grubhub, DoorDash, and Uber Eats. Check the individual restaurant’s website or app listing to confirm their delivery radius and fees. If you’re located within a few blocks of 87th Street, you’ll likely have a wide range of options available for delivery.
While most Chinese restaurants on 87th Street maintain fairly standard hours, some may stay open slightly later than others. Check the individual restaurant’s hours online or call ahead to confirm if you’re looking for a late-night meal.
For special events or gatherings, many of the restaurants on 87th Street offer catering services. Contact the restaurant directly to discuss your needs and arrange a custom catering menu. This is a convenient option for parties, meetings, or any other event where you want to serve delicious Chinese food to a group.
Tips for Navigating the Options
Choosing the right Chinese restaurant on 87th Street can feel overwhelming, but a few simple tips can help you make the best decision.
Take some time to read online reviews on websites like Yelp and Google Reviews. Pay attention to recent reviews, as these will provide the most up-to-date information about the food quality, service, and atmosphere. However, remember that online reviews are subjective, so take them with a grain of salt.
Consider what you’re looking for in a dining experience. Are you seeking a quick and affordable takeout meal, or a more relaxed and upscale sit-down dinner? Are you dining solo, with a partner, or with a large group? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options.
Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. People who live and work in the neighborhood often have insider knowledge about the best places to eat. Strike up a conversation with a neighbor, a building staff, or local merchants and ask for their favorite Chinese restaurants on 87th Street.
Finally, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try a dish you haven’t had before. Chinese cuisine is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of flavors and textures to explore. Ask your server for recommendations or try a dish that sounds interesting to you. You might just discover your new favorite food!
A Culinary Journey Awaits
87th Street is a treasure trove of delicious Chinese food, offering a diverse range of options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re craving a quick takeout meal, a relaxed sit-down dinner, or exploring vegetarian options, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite.
So, the next time you’re craving Chinese food, head to 87th Street and embark on your culinary adventure. Explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide, try new dishes, and discover your new favorite spot. Let us know in the comments which restaurant you tried and what you ordered! We’ll continue to update this guide as new restaurants open and menus change, so be sure to check back for the latest recommendations on Chinese food on 87th street. Happy eating!
