ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Bushwick
Master Critic Review
The Monkey King
8.5
A modern, family-style Chinese-leaning kitchen with a bar-forward room that rewards ordering like a small feast. The best tables anchor the meal with dumplings and a rice centerpiece, then round it out with one vegetable and one protein lane.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pan-Fried Chicken Dumplings, Char Siu, Roasted Duck-Fat Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Family-style Chinese comfort dishes in a polished, bar-led setting.
Who should go: Groups who want share-plates and cocktails
When to visit: Weeknights for easier seating and pacing
What to order: Dumplings, char siu, duck-fat fried rice
Insider tip: Order one rice dish early—then build around it.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability in the evening and can be competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual to trendy; jeans are fine, but many guests lean dressy for nights out.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversation is easy early, louder once the bar fills up.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are easy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetable-forward plates and rice/noodle options work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited but possible with guidance; focus on vegetable dishes and confirm sauces.
Gluten-free options: Limited; rice-based dishes are the safest path, but cross-contact is possible.
Best For
Better for: Group ordering, share-plate energy, and a cocktail-forward night out with Chinese-inspired comfort dishes.
Consider Alternatives If: You’re looking for traditional regional Chinese cooking, a quiet meal, or a strictly kid-focused experience.