Chinatown's unique Teochew-Vietnamese noodle soup spot w/ drool-worthy country duck & potent chili oil.
A long-standing Chinatown staple, this restaurant offers a unique blend of Teochew and Vietnamese influences, making it a go-to for authentic noodle soups and flavorful, albeit sometimes intensely rich, dishes. Their country-style duck and potent chili oil are particularly noteworthy, though diners should be aware of potential inconsistencies in service and past health inspection concerns.
The restaurant is celebrated for its Teochew-Vietnamese fusion cuisine, with standout dishes including the country-style duck and flavorful noodle soups. Their chili oil is also a frequent topic of discussion, noted for its unique taste, with some speculating it contains dried seafood like scallops. While many enjoy the rich flavors, a past health department issue has deterred some patrons.
"The country-style duck and rice, curry chicken noodle, and roast duck are frequently recommended dishes. The restaurant's unique chili oil is also a highlight."
Customer feedback is mixed, with many praising the unique flavors, especially the country-style duck and chili oil. However, some express concerns about past health inspection issues and occasional unfriendly service.
Important Note
Some customers have expressed concerns about past health inspection issues. Service can be inconsistent, with some staff members noted as unfriendly.
"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"Bo Ky is recommended as a good option for casual solo dining in Manhattan."
Positive