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Annie's First Wok
Master Critic Review
Annie's First Wok
7.7
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Annie's First Wok is a cash-forward DUMBO-area Chinese takeout joint that runs on generous portions, low prices, and a steady stream of neighborhood regulars. It’s pure New York-style Chinese—fried rice, combo plates, and big trays of stir-fries—served under the rumble of nearby trains rather than in a polished dining room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken with Broccoli, Fried or Steamed Dumplings (8 pcs), Sesame Chicken
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Old-school, overhead-train Chinese takeout known for big portions at low prices.
Who should go: Locals wanting classic NYC Chinese takeout without frills.
When to visit: Evenings before the heaviest delivery rush for faster pickup.
What to order: Chicken with broccoli, fried or steamed dumplings, sesame chicken.
Insider tip: Bring cash and consider splitting platters; portions are sized for leftovers.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; very limited in DUMBO and difficult after 6pm due to residential restrictions and bridge traffic.
Dress code: Ultra casual—sweatpants, work clothes, and gym wear all blend right in.
Noise level: Low inside but dominated by street and train noise outside; mainly a pickup-and-go environment.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for pickup during peak dinner rush
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or under 5 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable fried rice, mixed vegetable stir-fry, tofu with vegetables.
Vegan options: Limited—plain vegetable and tofu dishes available upon request, but check sauces.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some steamed dishes can be modified, but cross-contact risk is high.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No—this is a pure takeout spot with no ambiance and heavy street noise, better suited for solo meals or casual comfort food nights.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There is little to no real dine-in setup—expect to order for pickup or delivery rather than sit down.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for takeout—mild dishes like chicken with broccoli, lo mein, and fried rice work well for kids, but there are no dining amenities.
Best For
Better for: Fast, cheap, no-frills Chinese takeout with oversized portions compared to more polished neighborhood Chinese spots.
Skip if: Skip if you want sit-down dining, modern regional Chinese cooking, or atmosphere for a social meal.