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Chi Cafe
Master Critic Review
Chi Cafe
8.5
A late-night Hong Kong–style café established in 2008, Chi Cafe turns out an enormous menu of congee, noodle soups, and rice plates that stay comfortably under the $15 mark. Locals rely on it for dependable, after-hours comfort food when most of Chinatown has closed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salt and Pepper Pork Chop on Rice, Shrimp Wonton Noodle Soup, Egg White and Dried Scallop Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Busy Hong Kong–style diner serving huge late-night plates for around ten dollars.
Who should go: Night owls craving Hong Kong comfort food.
When to visit: Late evenings after other Chinatown kitchens close.
What to order: Salt and pepper pork chop, wonton noodle soup, fried rice.
Insider tip: Use the “On Rice” section for the best under-$10 meals.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking in Chinatown; can be competitive during dinner hours and weekends but easier late at night. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual — hoodies, jeans, and everyday wear are completely fine.
Noise level: Lively diner energy but generally conversational — you can talk across the table, though it may get busier during late-night rushes.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes during peak evening hours; often little to no wait later at night.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or very short wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable, tofu, and egg-based rice and noodle options, though not a fully dedicated vegetarian menu.
Vegan options: Limited — some veggie dishes can be adapted by requesting no egg/dairy, but many sauces contain animal products; confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Limited — soy-sauce-based marinades and cross-contact are common, so it’s not ideal for strict gluten-free diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-key meal or late-night bite than a romantic first date — the vibe is bright, busy, and functional rather than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s primarily walk-in and tables turn quickly. Small groups are usually seated without trouble, especially later at night.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families during earlier hours — the menu is broad and shareable, though there is no dedicated kids menu and late-night visits can feel crowded and energetic.
Best For
Better for: Affordable late-night comfort food, large portions under $15, fast service, and a huge menu of Hong Kong–style rice and noodle plates.
Skip if: You want a quiet or romantic setting, cocktails or upscale ambiance, or you have strict dietary or gluten-free requirements.