What should I order at Café China?
Café China
Pork Dumplings in Chili Oil
Mentioned multiple times as one of the best flavors in NYC, authentic with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Highly praised and a favorite appetizer.
Dan Dan Noodles
Frequently recommended and enjoyed for their unique flavor and perfect spicy kick, making it a must-try dish.
Mapo Tofu
Highlighted for its authentic Szechuan flavor with the characteristic peppercorn tingle, well-loved by both vegetarians and meat-eaters.
Spicy Soft Shell Crab
Noted as the dish that 'wowed' a reviewer with generous portions and loaded with flavor, making it a standout item.
Tea Smoked Duck
Praised for its juicy texture and smoky taste, a favorite among diners looking for expertly prepared duck dishes.
Scallion Pancakes
Described as perfectly crispy and flaky, packed with flavor, and a standout item on recent visits.
Spicy Fish Fillet
Repeatedly recommended for its authentic Szechuan spice and flavor, a popular choice among regulars.
Crispy Eel
Mentioned as delightfully crunchy and full of flavor, praised as a standout dish on the menu.
Duck Fried Rice
Recommended for its rich and savory taste, a satisfying rice dish that complements other entrees well.
Curiously Tasty Chicken
Enjoyed for its bold spices and flavor that improves even as leftovers, indicating depth of seasoning and quality.
Peppercorn Chicken
Highly regarded as the best peppercorn chicken the reviewer has ever had, well-balanced spice and flavor.
Hours
| Monday | 11:30 AM to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | 11:30 AM to 10 PM |
About Café China
A traditional Sichuan menu paired with wine & cocktails is complemented by 1930s Shanghai decor.
Amenities & services
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great tea selection
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked questions
What is Café China known for?
Café China is best known for its tea smoked duck, which is mentioned most often in reviews and is repeatedly described as juicy, smoky, and full of flavor. Reviewers also point to the restaurant’s authentic Sichuan seasoning and bold chili oil, which make the dishes feel like the real thing rather than a toned-down version.
What dishes are most recommended at Café China?
Reviewers most often recommend the tea smoked duck, scallion pancakes, cumin lamb, eggplant in garlic sauce, and pork soup dumplings. Other frequently praised dishes include mapo tofu, dan dan noodles, and pork dumplings in chili oil, with many comments focusing on strong spice, crisp textures, and generous portions.
What is the atmosphere like at Café China?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, casual, and trendy, with 1930s Shanghai decor that feels unique and photo-worthy. Reviewers say it works well for date nights, small private gatherings, groups, and solo meals, and several note that it can be peaceful enough for conversation, though some visits can be loud.
Is Café China good value, and what is the price range?
Café China falls in the $20–80 price range, and reviewers often say the portions are generous and the pricing feels reasonable for the quality. Lunch bento specials and happy hour drinks like the lucky cup sake at $8 are specifically mentioned as good-value options.
Do you need a reservation at Café China?
Reservations are accepted and recommended for both lunch and dinner, because reviewers and the business data note that there is usually a wait. Guests who reserved were seated smoothly, including on the second floor, which can help during busier meal times.
Is parking available at Café China?
Yes. Paid street parking, Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Does Café China have vegetarian options?
Yes, Café China offers vegan options.
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