0 Followers
Main Street Imperial Taiwanese Restaurant
ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Flushing
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Flushing
Master Critic Review
Main Street Imperial Taiwanese Restaurant
8.3
Perpetually packed Taiwanese specialist drawing crowds for authentic comfort food. The menu covers classic Taiwanese dishes with an emphasis on noodle soups, braised meats, and traditional street food preparations that attract homesick expats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Braised Pork Rice, Beef Noodle Soup, Oyster Omelet
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Authentic Taiwanese comfort food that draws local Chinese diners
Who should go: Taiwanese food enthusiasts and adventurous eaters
When to visit: Dinner on weeknights when lines are shorter
What to order: Lu rou fan, beef noodle soup, three-cup chicken
Insider tip: Menu is plastered on walls—study options while waiting for seating
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, challenging in busy Flushing - arrive early or take the 7 train to Flushing-Main St
Dress code: Very casual - come as you are, this is no-frills comfort food
Noise level: Loud - bustling atmosphere with conversations in Mandarin, not ideal for quiet dates
Weekend wait: 15-30 min wait, may share tables with strangers during peak
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, food arrives fast
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - three cup tofu, braised tofu, stir-fried eggplant with basil, various vegetable dishes
Vegan options: Limited but solid - three cup tofu with ginger is the standout, plus vegetable sides
Gluten-free options: Difficult - soy sauce is prevalent in most dishes, no dedicated GF options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Skip it for romance. Cramped tables, loud buzz, and you might share with strangers. Great for a casual third-date adventure with someone who loves authentic food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations for small parties anyway. Expect 15-30 min waits on weekends. Weeknights are your best bet for walk-in seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - families are welcome and the casual vibe suits children. Minced pork rice and fried pork chops are kid-approved. Just note: cash only, so come prepared.
Best For
Better for: Homesick Taiwanese expats craving authentic comfort food at fair prices - 24+ years of consistency beats flashier newcomers
Skip if: You need ambiance, quiet conversation, or credit card acceptance - this is strictly cash-only, no-frills, hole-in-the-wall authenticity