TLDR
A timeless Chinatown classic serving authentic, traditional Cantonese seafood. Perfect for those looking to skip the tourist lines for a reliable and historic dining experience.
Details
An authentic cornerstone of Chinatown, this long-standing institution offers a quintessential Cantonese dining experience that locals have cherished for decades [5]. While often overshadowed by nearby competitors, those in the know frequently bypass the crowds upstairs to enjoy the time-honored flavors found within this subterranean classic [1], [3]. The kitchen specializes in traditional seafood preparations, cementing its status as a reliable spot for both nostalgic diners and those seeking genuine flavors [5], [12], [13].
Food Overview
This restaurant excels in traditional Cantonese seafood, featuring signature items like whole pan-fried flounder, salted squid with hot peppers, and Cantonese-style crabs [7], [9], [12]. Customers also highly recommend the snails in black bean sauce and jumbo shrimp with minced pork, though some have expressed disappointment that the kitchen now removes the head from the flounder before serving [12], [14], [15]. Seasonal delicacies like razor clams are also available for those seeking a more specialized menu [11].
Highlights / Recommended
"Highly recommended dishes include the jumbo shrimp in dry lobster sauce, Cantonese-style crabs, and the salted squid with hot peppers [9], [12], [15]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •salted squid with hot peppers(4)
Customer Sentiment
Patrons widely regard this establishment as an authentic, beloved Chinatown staple, frequently praising it as a superior, often overlooked alternative to more crowded nearby spots [1], [2], [13]. While some diners have noted that the decor is dated, the overall sentiment remains positive regarding its consistent, classic appeal [10], [13].
Caveats
The restaurant's interior is described as having older decor, and some long-time fans have noted changes to the presentation of certain signature dishes, such as the removal of the flounder head [10], [14].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HOP KEE
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Looking For Recommendations For Longtime Fans Of
"Mentioned as a recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Whats Your Favorite Shrimp Dish That Youve Had In
"The user enjoys the jumbo shrimp dish."
PositiveFrom post: Current Best Spots For Steamed Razor Clams In Nyc
"Mentioned as a typical Chinatown restaurant where you can find razor clams seasonally."
NeutralFrom post: Any Suggestions For A Manhattan Seafood Lunch
"Mentions they used to enjoy the whole pan fried flounder, though dislikes that they have started removing the head."
NeutralFrom post: Any Suggestions For A Manhattan Seafood Lunch
"Describes it as an authentic Chinatown experience and a popular spot."
Positive