0 Followers
Hop Li Seafood Restaurant
Master Critic Review
Hop Li Seafood Restaurant
7.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Hidden Gems Heaven
Business Lunch Power Players
Low-key family-friendly spot offering seafood-centric Cantonese classics for over 30 years in Chinatown's heart. Stir-fried lobster, traditional preparations of crab and shrimp, and comforting dishes like hot and sour soup draw loyal regulars to this dependable neighborhood institution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Stir-Fried Lobster with Ginger Green Onion, Chinese Broccoli, Hot and Sour Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Three decades of reliable Cantonese seafood at affordable prices under $30
Who should go: Families and regulars seeking consistent traditional Cantonese
When to visit: Lunch or dinner, open daily 11am-9pm
What to order: Lobster in ginger sauce, classic seafood dishes, orange chicken
Insider tip: Long-standing neighborhood favorite with multi-generational family patronage
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Broadway/Hill Street, or use Chinatown public lots ($5-8). Easier before 6pm on weekdays.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and t-shirt perfectly fine, locals come straight from work
Noise level: Moderately lively - family conversations and occasional kitchen sounds, but can easily chat
Weekend wait: 20-30 min peak times (6-7:30pm), call ahead to check
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - Buddha's delight, sautéed vegetables, tofu dishes available
Vegan options: Limited - request no oyster sauce, about 3-4 vegetable stir-fries work
Gluten-free options: Challenging - most sauces contain soy sauce, but steamed fish/vegetables possible with advance notice
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd+ dates or casual meetups. It's a no-frills neighborhood spot with fluorescent lighting - choose if you both appreciate authentic food over ambiance, or if impressing with insider knowledge of Chinatown gems is your vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for most times - they don't take reservations for parties under 6. Weekday lunches are easy; Friday/Saturday dinners may require 15-25 min wait around 7pm. Go before 6pm or after 8pm to walk right in.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - high chairs available, tolerant staff, and classics like orange chicken and fried rice. Multi-generational Chinese families pack this place on weekends. It's loud enough that kid noise won't draw stares.
Best For
Better for: Authentic, affordable Cantonese seafood without the markup - prices 30-40% lower than trendier spots while maintaining quality. Ideal for regular cravings, feeding a group under $100, or business lunches where you need substance over scene.
Skip if: You want Instagram-worthy plating, romantic ambiance, or modern fusion takes on Chinese food. Also skip if you need guaranteed gluten-free safety or extensive vegan options - this is traditional Cantonese cooking through and through.