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Chi Restaurant & Bar
ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Garment District
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Master Critic Review
Chi Restaurant & Bar
8.2
Chi Restaurant & Bar is a contemporary Chinese spot on Ninth Avenue with a cocktail-forward bar, Peking duck, and regional dishes from across China. It’s a flexible choice for pre-theater dinners and casual celebrations, balancing polished small plates with shareable mains in a buzzy, dimly lit room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peking duck, Wontons in chili oil, Scallion pancake
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A lively Chinese restaurant-bar pairing regional specialties with a strong cocktail program on the edge of Hell’s Kitchen.
Who should go: Groups seeking Chinese dishes with cocktails near Hudson Yards.
When to visit: Evenings for happy hour into dinner before or after shows.
What to order: Peking duck, wontons in chili oil, scallion pancake.
Insider tip: Sit near the bar if cocktails are a priority; dining room tables skew louder and better for groups.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Ninth Avenue is limited, especially during showtimes; nearby paid garages on 42nd–44th St. are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most guests lean slightly dressy for nightlife and pre-theater plans.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud; the bar and music create energy, but small groups can still hold a conversation with some effort.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially 6:30–8:00pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is faster and the room is quieter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid range of options, including vegetable dumplings, sautéed greens, and tofu dishes.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—stir-fried greens and select tofu preparations; confirm sauces for hidden animal products.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free dishes exist, but soy sauce is common; request modifications as the kitchen can accommodate select items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a lively, contemporary setting with cocktails; the dim lighting and shareable plates work well, though the noise makes it less ideal for very intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—bar seats turn over quickly and small groups are easier to accommodate. Peak pre-theater windows may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids and teens who enjoy Chinese flavors; no dedicated children’s menu and the atmosphere skews adult in the evenings.
Best For
Better for: Cocktail-forward Chinese dining with a social, buzzy room—great for groups, celebrations, and pre-theater nights.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional regional cooking, a quiet dining room, or extensive dietary accommodations.