ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Long Island City
Best Trendy Restaurants in Long Island City
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Long Island City
Master Critic Review
Gulp
8.0
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
Tiny Taiwanese counter with attached bar serving soul-warming beef noodle soup and lu rou fan braised pork rice in generous combos. The complimentary chicken broth shooter greeting and free noodle refills create a homey atmosphere despite limited counter seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Noodle Soup, Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice), Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Authentic Taiwanese comfort food with complimentary chicken broth greeting and free noodle refills
Who should go: Solo diners craving homestyle Taiwanese, late-night snackers
When to visit: Breakfast for dan bing, dinner for beef noodle soup
What to order: Beef noodle soup combo with free refill, lu rou fan
Insider tip: Ask for chili sauce and pickled vegetables to add to your soup
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on 27th St, metered spots free after 7pm. Transit preferred - 3 min walk from Queensboro Plaza (N/W/7 trains)
Dress code: Ultra-casual - come as you are, this is counter seating at a neighborhood noodle shop
Noise level: Moderate-loud - open kitchen adds energy, intimate space means you'll hear neighbors
Weekend wait: 20-40 min for counter seats, takeout recommended
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, seats turn quickly
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - pickled cucumbers, radish cake, glass noodles with veggies, bai ye tofu available
Vegan options: Very limited - ask about vegetable sides and pickled items, most dishes contain pork or meat broth
Gluten-free options: Difficult - noodles and soy-based sauces throughout menu, rice bowls are safer bet
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're both comfortable with casual counter dining side-by-side. The 4-5 seat setup is cozy but not romantic. Better for a 'show them your favorite spot' vibe than impressing someone new.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations taken - it's first-come, first-served counter seating only. Peak times (7-9pm weekends) can mean 30-40 min waits. Takeout is popular for a reason.
Is it kid-friendly? Challenging for young kids - only bar-height counter stools, no high chairs, tight space. Older kids (10+) who can sit at a counter and enjoy noodle soup will be fine. Great for adventurous teen eaters.
Is there really a hidden bar? Yes - through the back door you'll find an attached bar space. Perfect for drinks while waiting for your seat or extending the evening after your bowl.
What time should I come for breakfast? Taiwanese breakfast runs 9am-11:30am daily. Come for dan bing (Taiwanese omelet), pork floss egg sandwich, and radish cakes. Weekday mornings are quieter than weekend brunch rush.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Taiwanese night market flavors at NYC prices - the free noodle refill and chicken broth greeting create genuine Taipei energy. Best beef noodle soup in Dutch Kills/LIC without the Flushing trek.
Consider Alternatives If: You need table seating for a group, require extensive vegetarian options, or want a lingering multi-course meal. This is quick, soulful counter food - not a dinner destination.