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Fortune House
ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Fortune House
8.0
Fortune House is a Brooklyn Heights stalwart that has been serving Chinese standards for decades in a narrow, lightly updated dining room. It’s the sit-down choice locals use for family dinners and casual gatherings when they want familiar dishes, warm service, and portions that comfortably fill the table.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp Egg Roll, Beef Chow Fun in Soup, Hunan Beef
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood Chinese spot where table-service dinners and takeout coexist comfortably.
Who should go: Families and groups wanting familiar Brooklyn Heights Chinese comfort.
When to visit: Early evenings or weeknights to avoid peak takeaway rush.
What to order: Shrimp egg roll, beef chow fun in soup, Hunan beef.
Insider tip: If you’re dining in, ask for recommendations beyond the standard combo-plate orders.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; very limited in the immediate area and difficult after 6pm. Nearby garages are a safer bet for dinner.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, sweaters, and everyday neighborhood attire fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during peak dinner but still easy to hold a conversation at the table.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for a table during peak hours without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a very short wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several vegetable, tofu, and rice/noodle dishes work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — a few vegetable-based options can be adapted, but sauces may contain animal products.
Gluten-free options: Limited — some steamed dishes and rice plates work, but soy sauce is used widely in the kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a low-pressure, casual first date than an intimate romantic one — it’s comfortable and unfussy, not dimly lit or cozy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially on weeknights or outside peak dinner hours; weekends may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — kids’ tastes are well covered, portion sizes are generous, and families are a regular part of the dining room.
Best For
Better for: Reliable sit-down Chinese meals for families and groups who want full-table ordering, lingering meals, and big shared portions.
Skip if: Choose a different spot if you’re looking for trendy regional Chinese cooking, late-night delivery convenience, or modern small-plate vibes.