TLDR
A reliable midtown staple for classic American-style Chinese dishes and Sichuan favorites, perfect for a quick, high-energy pre-theater meal.
Instagram Posts References
Ollie's, a Chinese restaurant in Times Square, is highlighted as one of the best Chinese food spots in the city. The reviewer was impressed by the extensive menu options and ordered a variety of dishes including fried chicken wings, beef with pepper and onion, shrimp fried rice, and chicken lo mein. All main dishes were described as delicious and came in huge portions, suitable for sharing among multiple people. The dessert, a chocolate gelato, was also noted for its creamy and delicious taste, contributing to an overall positive dining experience. The ambiance included visible bar area.
Details
A go-to destination in Manhattan for classic American-style Chinese comfort food and reliable Sichuan specialties [11], [13], [20]. The restaurant is frequently praised for its consistent quality, particularly with long-standing favorites like their signature General Tso's chicken [1], [4], [18]. While some guests find the food experience occasionally inconsistent in terms of texture or portion size, it remains a highly regarded spot for a quick pre-theater meal [17], [19], [20].
Food Overview
The menu offers a blend of American-style Chinese staples and Sichuan dishes [2], [11]. Fan favorites include the General Tso's chicken [1], [4], the unique green dumplings [14], [16], and the Chongqing chicken [18]. Recent feedback also highlights the quality of the Chengdu whole fish [10] and various American-style classics like shrimp fried rice, lo mein, and fried chicken wings [1]. Diners have occasionally expressed disappointment with the portion sizes of meat in specific dishes like the shredded pork with garlic sauce [9].
Diners highly recommend the green dumplings [14], [16], the General Tso's chicken [1], the Chongqing chicken [18], and the Chengdu whole fish [10]. Other crowd-pleasing favorites include the chicken lo mein, shrimp fried rice, and fried chicken wings [1].
Overall feedback is positive, with many diners appreciating the restaurant as a solid and consistent choice for both traditional and American-style Chinese cuisine [8], [17]. While most experiences are favorable, some guests have noted occasional inconsistencies in food preparation and concerns regarding portion sizes for certain meat-heavy dishes [9], [19].
Most Mentioned Dishes
- 01shredded pork with garlic sauce4 mentions
- 02chongqing chicken4 mentions
Caveats
The restaurant is known for Chinese-American style cuisine rather than strictly authentic regional cooking [13]. Some diners have reported concerns regarding inconsistent portion sizes, specifically noting they can be stingy with meat even when paying extra [9], and noted that the texture of dishes like the Chongqing chicken has shifted over time [19].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About OLLIES 42ND
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Sichuan Chinese Food Nyc Recs Bklyn Manhattan
"Considered a decent option in Manhattan when looking for a quick meal."
PositiveFrom post: Help With Food Recommendations First Time Trip
"Recommended for pre-Broadway dinner due to fast service, though they do not take reservations."
PositiveFrom post: Suggestions On Favorite Chongqingdry
"The commenter notes that while the quality can be uneven, the version here is often delicious, though it has changed from being very oily to being drier."
NeutralFrom post: Suggestions On Favorite Chongqingdry
"The original poster identifies this as a place they have already eaten the Chongqing chicken."
PositiveFrom post: Doughy Dumplings Where To Find
"This commenter confirmed that the green dumplings at Ollies are the best."
Positive