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Peking Duck House
Master Critic Review
Peking Duck House
8.2
Midtown specialist delivering some of the city's best Peking duck, roasted until the skin achieves perfect crispiness and carved tableside with house-made pancakes. The contemporary Chinese restaurant focuses on traditional Beijing preparations with full-bar service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking Duck, Crispy Orange Beef, Salt and Pepper Shrimp
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Single-minded focus on perfecting Peking duck with traditional maltose-rubbed preparation
Who should go: Duck enthusiasts and groups seeking communal dining
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for attentive service
What to order: Peking duck (order one per 2-3 people), soup dumplings, string beans
Insider tip: Request extra pancakes—the house-made wrappers are exceptional
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Garage parking around the corner; street parking available but difficult during dinner rush; subway to Lexington Ave/53rd St (E,M) convenient
Dress code: Business casual - waiters in formal attire set an elevated tone, but jeans acceptable; no shorts or athletic wear
Noise level: Moderate - contemporary setting quieter than Chinatown sibling; two main dining areas allow comfortable conversation
Weekend wait: 20-40 min without reservation; holidays (especially Chinese New Year) require advance booking
Weekday lunch: Usually seated promptly; popular with Midtown business crowd for group specials
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - Chinese broccoli, tofu dishes, vegetable stir-fries available; staff accommodates requests
Vegan options: Limited - vegetable dishes can be prepared vegan; call ahead for best options
Gluten-free options: Yes - some options available; staff can advise on suitable dishes; not a dedicated GF kitchen
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Works well for adventurous eaters who'll enjoy the tableside carving theater. The contemporary setting is pleasant but utilitarian - come for the duck experience, not romance. Better as a 'wow I know this place' date than candlelit intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknight lunch or early dinner usually fine. Friday-Saturday dinner and holidays (especially Chinese New Year) - don't risk it, call ahead. The dining room fills with regulars who plan ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - booster seats available, family-friendly atmosphere. Kids enjoy watching the duck carved tableside. The communal dining style works well for families; plenty of non-duck options if they're picky.
Best For
Better for: Pure Peking duck excellence in a convenient Midtown location - more refined and accessible than trekking to Chinatown, better duck execution than upscale competitors like Mr Chow
Skip if: You want scene over substance or aren't ordering the duck - at these prices, go elsewhere for General Tso's; try Decoy in West Village for a trendier duck experience