TLDR
An enduring, old-school Chinatown staple for authentic Cantonese comfort food and unbeatable lunch specials. A reliable, budget-friendly go-to that captures the essence of classic NYC dining.
Reddit Sentiment for HOP LEE RESTAURANT(based on 21 Reddit opinions)
Details
A cherished, old-school Chinatown institution, this spot is celebrated for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and reliable traditional flavors [7]. It serves as a go-to destination for affordable, tasty daily lunch specials and is well-regarded for accommodating large groups [12], [15], [20]. Recognized as a noteworthy Chinatown gem on a prestigious New York Times list, it remains a beloved childhood favorite for many regulars [10], [18].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on Cantonese dishes with some Americanized options, ranging from Peking-style pork chops and fried squid to seasonal offerings like razor clams and clams in black bean sauce [8], [12], [14], [18]. Diners consistently praise the daily lunch specials, which are considered both cheap and satisfying, and often recommend vegetable sides like snow pea shoots to round out the meal [12], [15], [18], [20].
Customer Sentiment
Patrons generally view this establishment as a dependable, budget-friendly, and nostalgic classic that delivers consistent value [15], [18], [21]. While some debate its selection as a premier dining destination, the overwhelming sentiment highlights its reliability as a comfortable group spot [10], [11], [13].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HOP LEE RESTAURANT
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Seeking Economical Dinner Places 4560 Pp In
"Suggested for Chinese food where bringing your own wine helps meet the budget."
PositiveFrom post: Hello New York Realistic Food Budget Suggestions
"Known for inexpensive lunch specials that include free soup with a multi-plate order."
PositiveFrom post: Any Spot Recommendations In Manhattan For A Group
"Noted for having cheap and tasty lunch specials."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Recommendations For Longtime Fans Of
"A childhood favorite with slightly better accessibility than Wo Hop, though still has some stairs."
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: Iso Best Medium Budget Dinner Near Hotel 50 Bowery
"A budget-friendly BYOB option that offers great daily lunch specials."
PositiveFrom post: Iso Best Medium Budget Dinner Near Hotel 50 Bowery
"Mentioned as a nearby spot for cheap Chinese food."
NeutralFrom post: Recommended Spots For A Group Of 1012 In Manhattan
"Suggested as a solid option, particularly recommended for those who appreciate traditional Chinese flavors."
PositiveFrom 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."
Positive