A Chinatown gem serving authentic Chinese & Vietnamese fare, famed for its must-try country duck and rice [1] & unique chili oil [7]. Casual solo dining option in Manhattan [3].
This Chinatown eatery is a lauded spot for authentic Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine, with a particular emphasis on its acclaimed duck dishes [1, 4]. Diners often praise the flavorful country duck and rice, as well as the mixed meats with offal [2]. The establishment is also recognized for its unique chili oil, a popular item that some speculate contains dried scallops [7, 8, 9].
The restaurant is highly recommended for its duck dishes, including the country duck and rice, and roast duck [1, 4]. Mixed meats with offal are also highlighted as a must-try [2]. The chili oil is a notable feature, with discussions around its unique flavor profile, potential ingredients like dried scallops, and its vinegar-based variant [7, 8, 9, 20, 21]. Some users have noted price increases and smaller serving sizes for dishes like beef stew noodles [22].
"The country duck and rice is frequently highlighted as a must-try dish, along with the mixed meats (offal) [1, 2]. Roast duck is also recommended [4]."
Customers frequently highlight the exceptional quality of the duck dishes and the distinctive chili oil. While many enjoy the food, some comments touch on past health inspection concerns and instances of unfriendly service, though others defend the establishment's longevity and personal experiences.
Important Note
Some patrons have expressed concerns regarding past health inspection issues, though others, including long-time locals, report no personal issues. There are also mentions of unfriendly staff, particularly an elderly waitress, and a rude cashier experience. Prices for some dishes have reportedly increased.
"This is a Chinese restaurant in Chinatown that is mentioned as an example of a place with rude staff but excellent food."
Neutral"Bo ky is listed as a frequently visited restaurant."
Positive"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
