TLDR
Classic Cantonese spot in Chinatown, known for its old-school vibe and Americanized dishes. A good alternative to busy spots.
Reddit Sentiment for HOP LEE RESTAURANT(based on 19 Reddit opinions)
Details
Hop Lee is a long-standing Cantonese restaurant in Manhattan's Chinatown, noted for its traditional dishes and old-school atmosphere [12]. While some praise its Cantonese offerings and Americanized options [15], others suggest exploring better authentic Chinese choices elsewhere in the city [3]. The restaurant is recommended as an alternative for those seeking classic Chinese-American fare [8].
Food Overview
Hop Lee offers Cantonese cuisine with some Americanized dishes, noted for its exceptional sesame chicken and fried rice [1]. However, dumplings have been described as unappetizing and not meeting expectations [1], [3]. There's a suggestion to try the Cantonese pressed almond duck [7]. The restaurant is also known for its lunch specials, including Peking porkchops, fried squid, and preserved vegetables with beef [21].
Caveats
Some users question the authenticity of certain dishes and suggest that better, more authentic Chinese options may be available elsewhere in NYC [2], [3]. There's also a mention that a specific dish might be Americanized and that diners preferring westernized Chinese food may enjoy it more [5], [6].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HOP LEE RESTAURANT
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Sending Dinner To New Parents In Battery Park City
"Hop Lee is recommended for its great lunch specials, which come in smaller portions and range from $8-$12. The commenter likes the Peking porkchops, fried squid, preserved vegetables with beef, and egg rolls."
PositiveFrom post: Asian Restaurants In Manhattan That Might Fit 150
"Hop Lee is mentioned as a not bad option for large groups in Manhattan."
NeutralFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"The commenter questioned why Hop Lee was chosen as the representative Chinatown gem on the list."
NegativeFrom post: Nytimes The 100 Best Restaurants In Nyc 11100
"This is one of many restaurants listed by the commenter from the NYTimes list."
NeutralFrom post: Cozy Restaurant In Chinatown With Great Food
"Hop Lee is recommended, with a specific suggestion to go upstairs for a potentially better experience."
PositiveFrom post: Mabu Vs Kong Sikh Tong For Hk Diner Food In Nyc
"In comparison to Kong Sikh Tong, Hop Lee is described as a Cantonese restaurant with some Americanized dishes, unlike KST which is a Cha Chaan Teng."
NeutralFrom post: Great Eats For A Picky Teen
"Hop Lee is mentioned as an old-school establishment in Chinatown."
PositiveFrom post: 鸡蛋西红柿 Tomato Egg Stirfry Chinatown Nyc
"This user suggested Hop Lee, also referred to as one of the 'Hops', located on Mott St."
NeutralFrom post: Recs For Old School Chinese American Spots
"This user commented 'also Hop Kee', implying a recommendation for Hop Kee."
PositiveFrom post: Recs For Old School Chinese American Spots
"This user stated they prefer Hop Lee."
PositiveFrom post: Recs For Old School Chinese American Spots
"This user recommended Hop Lee on Mott Street, describing it as Cantonese and incredibly good."
PositiveFrom post: Recs For Old School Chinese American Spots
"This user recommended Hop Lee as an alternative if Wo Hop is too popular."
PositiveFrom post: Cantonese Pressed Almond Duck In Chinatown
"A commenter suggested trying Hop Lee for the Cantonese pressed almond duck, noting that the dish in the photo appeared to be tofu, but an almond duck version might be available upon request."
NeutralFrom post: A Week Of Eating
"This commenter agreed that Hop Lee might have Americanized its menu to cater to customers and suggested NYC has better authentic Chinese options."
NeutralFrom post: A Week Of Eating
"The user responded to a comment about their Hop Lee order, stating they are white and prefer westernized Chinese food, and asked for clarification on Panda Express as it's not available in Scotland."
NeutralFrom post: A Week Of Eating
"This commenter expressed surprise that the user ordered certain dishes from Hop Lee, suggesting they may be white and that better options are available beyond dishes comparable to Panda Express."
NegativeFrom post: A Week Of Eating
"Regarding Hop Lee, the user noted that while the dumplings were not good and unlike their expectations from Birds of a Feather, the sesame chicken and fried rice were exceptional."
NeutralFrom post: A Week Of Eating
"This commenter questioned whether the dishes ordered at Hop Lee were representative of authentic Cantonese cuisine, suggesting better options exist on the menu and that the dumplings looked unappetizing."
NegativeFrom post: A Week Of Eating
"This user expressed positive sentiment towards Hop Lee."
Positive