Authentic Teochew-Vietnamese noodle soups and legendary country duck, with a chili oil that sparks debate.
This Chinatown establishment is a beloved spot for its unique Teochew-Vietnamese noodle soups and the standout country style duck, often prepared with rice. Patrons rave about the distinctive chili oil, with discussions around its potential ingredients like dried scallops adding to its mystique. While the authentic flavors are a major draw, some diners have noted past health concerns and less-than-stellar service experiences.
The restaurant is celebrated for its country style duck and noodle soups, with the country duck and rice being a highly recommended dish. The chili oil is also a standout, with many discussing its unique flavor, which some speculate comes from dried seafood ingredients. While the food is generally well-regarded, some patrons have noted recent price increases and smaller serving sizes.
"The country style duck, especially when served with rice, is highly recommended. Other popular choices include the noodle soups, such as the curry chicken noodle, and the country mixed meats (offal)."
Customers generally recommend the restaurant, particularly highlighting its country style duck and noodle soups. However, some have expressed concerns about past health inspection issues and noted that the service can be inconsistent, with some staff members described as unfriendly.
Important Note
Some customers have noted past health inspection issues, and service can be inconsistent with some staff members described as unfriendly. Recent price increases and smaller serving sizes have also been mentioned.
"For those looking to support a local business, Bo Ky is mentioned as a Chiu Chow style restaurant that reportedly sells chili oil. The commenter generally eats dumplings from Shu Jiao Fu Zhou but notes Bo Ky is one of the few remaining Chiu Chow style places."
Neutral"This user reiterates that they purchase the chili oil directly from Bo Ky."
Neutral"This user suggests that dried scallops are an ingredient in Bo Ky's chili oil."
Neutral"This user believes the chili oil at Bo Ky might contain dried seafood, possibly dried scallops, based on a discussion about its ingredients."
Neutral"This user finds Bo Ky's vinegar chili oil too spicy for their taste."
Negative"This user expresses a preference for Bo Ky's vinegar-based chili oil."
Positive"This user attempted to find a recipe for Bo Ky's chili oil online but was unsuccessful."
Neutral"This commenter recounts an experience where the cashier was rude when asked for extra chili oil, making it seem like an additional cost."
Negative"This user points out issues with the staff at Bo Ky, specifically mentioning the short elderly waitress on the right side and noting their generally poor service."
Negative"This commenter agrees that Bo Ky's chili oil is exceptionally good and distinct from other chili oils. They speculate if its unique flavor is influenced by its Southern Chinese, Vietnamese, or Cambodian cuisine."
Positive"This user confirms that Bo Ky's chili oil contains dried seafood and mentions they simply buy the jars."
Neutral"This user notes that Bo Ky isn't for everyone and mentions that the staff, particularly an elderly waitress, can be unfriendly. They also comment on the restaurant being the sole survivor among similar establishments over the years."
Neutral"This commenter notes that Bo Ky's prices have increased significantly, with their beef stew noodles now costing around $16 after tip, despite already having small serving sizes."
Negative"A native of Chinatown, this user acknowledges potential issues at Bo Ky but states they've never experienced health-related problems there, despite having frequented it since birth. They understand why others might be deterred."
Neutral"This user enjoys Bo Ky's food but was hesitant to return due to past health inspection issues. They inquire if there's a noticeable difference now that the restaurant has an 'A' rating."
Neutral"Bo Ky is listed as a recommended restaurant."
Positive"The commenter uses the phrase 'elite ball knowledge' in response to the Bo Ky recommendation."
Positive"Roast duck at Bo Ky in Chinatown is recommended."
Positive"Bo Ky is recommended as a good option for casual solo dining in Manhattan."
Positive"Building on the prior suggestion for Bo Ky, the country duck and country mixed meats (offal) are also emphasized as dishes to try."
Positive
