TLDR
A quintessential, group-friendly Cantonese spot perfect for large celebrations. Known for its iconic wonton soup, BYOB policy, and bustling, high-energy atmosphere.
Reddit Sentiment for WU'S WONTON KING(based on 154 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
The Hungry Hebrew provides a glowing review of Wu's Wonton King, positioning it as a quintessential Chinatown NYC dining experience. The reviewer highlights several key dishes, including the King Crab prepared in three distinct styles (with a particular nod to the Fried Salt & Pepper Crab), the Whole Sea Bass, Peking Duck, and Salt & Pepper Prawns. The overall sentiment is that the restaurant excels in delivering authentic and high-quality Cantonese-American cuisine.
Wu's Wonton King in Chinatown is recognized as a top BYOB spot. The image focuses on their wontons, which appear to be generously filled and delicately prepared, promising an authentic and delicious Chinese dining experience.
Wu's Wonton King is hailed as the top choice for a sit-down meal in Chinatown, particularly noted for its fresh seafood options, including large crabs.
Details
A go-to destination for authentic Cantonese dining, this establishment is a beloved classic on the edge of Chinatown known for its vibrant group atmosphere [1]. Diners frequently celebrate here, drawn by signature dishes like suckling pig, roasted duck, and fresh seafood, often pre-ordering special items to anchor their feasts [1], [2]. The restaurant's BYOB policy is a major draw, allowing parties to bring their own wine without corkage fees while enjoying large-format, family-style meals [1], [3].
Food Overview
This restaurant specializes in authentic Cantonese-American cuisine, with the wonton soup serving as a legendary starter for almost every table [1], [2]. Highly recommended dishes include the crispy half chicken with garlic, Peking duck, and a variety of fresh seafood options like salt and pepper prawns, whole sea bass, and live Alaskan king crab [2], [3]. While most items are highly praised, some experienced diners suggest skipping basic noodle dishes in favor of more specialized stir-fries and roasted meats for a better overall value [2].
Highlights / Recommended
"The wonton soup is considered a mandatory starting point, while the roast duck, suckling pig, and salt and pepper king crab are frequently cited as the most impressive centerpiece dishes for group meals [1], [2]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •peking duck(6)
- •wonton soup(6)
- •salt and pepper squid(4)
- •suckling pig(4)
- •king crab(4)
- •steamed flounder(3)
- •wontons(2)
- •walnut shrimp(2)
- •crab(2)
Customer Sentiment
Patrons consistently rave about the restaurant as a top-tier choice for group gatherings and milestone celebrations, citing its lively energy and generous family-style portions [1]. While sentiment is overwhelmingly positive regarding the food and atmosphere, a few diners have noted fluctuations in food quality or raised concerns about its health rating [2].
Caveats
The restaurant is not available on delivery apps due to their focus on high-volume wholesale operations, and some visitors have noted that certain seafood dishes can be quite expensive, averaging over $200 [1], [2]. Additionally, some recent diners have mentioned a 'C' health rating, which may be a consideration for those sensitive to such reports [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About WU'S WONTON KING
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Need Restaurant Recommendations For 11 People In
"The food is excellent and the user has dined there many times."
PositiveFrom post: Need Restaurant Recommendations For 11 People In
"This place offers a prix fixe menu starting at $50 per person."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Recommendations For Longtime Fans Of
"It is different from Wo Hop, but delicious and street-level with decent accessibility."
PositiveFrom post: Whats Your Favorite Shrimp Dish That Youve Had In
"The user highly recommends the salt and pepper shrimp."
PositiveFrom post: Whats Your Favorite Shrimp Dish That Youve Had In
"The user loves the walnut shrimp here."
PositiveFrom post: Mediumupscale Places With Great Wine Lists For A
"Suggested as a place that allows BYOB for those wanting to bring their own bottles."
NeutralFrom post: Can Reservation For 9 7 Adults 2 Kids Avoid A Pre
"Recommended for group dining."
PositiveFrom post: Group Dining Restaurants Without Prixfixe Or
"The restaurant is suggested as a location in Manhattan's Chinatown that can accommodate a large group without mandatory prix-fixe or minimum spend requirements."
PositiveFrom post: Need Help Finding Dinner Spot For 16 In Manhattan
"This place is ideal for large groups, is BYOB, and handles groups of 16 well if you call ahead."
PositiveFrom post: Need Help Finding Dinner Spot For 16 In Manhattan
"The user recommends getting a fun video shot while rotating the table's lazy susan."
PositiveFrom post: Need Help Finding Dinner Spot For 16 In Manhattan
"The user suggests this Chinese restaurant as a good BYOB option for large groups to stay within a tight budget."
PositiveFrom post: Iso Best Medium Budget Dinner Near Hotel 50 Bowery
"Recommended specifically for being a BYOB establishment."
PositiveFrom post: Any Suggestions For A Manhattan Seafood Lunch
"Suggested as an affordable seafood option in Chinatown."
NeutralFrom post: Recommended Spots For A Group Of 1012 In Manhattan
"User shares positive personal experiences with birthday dinners, noting they offer pri fixe menus."
PositiveFrom post: Iso Best Medium Budget Dinner Near Hotel 50 Bowery
"Suggested as a dining option."
NeutralFrom post: Iso Best Medium Budget Dinner Near Hotel 50 Bowery
"Highly recommended BYOB spot known for suckling pig, Peking duck, and king crab."
PositiveFrom post: Iso Best Medium Budget Dinner Near Hotel 50 Bowery
"It's an iconic, buzzy spot with large servings that is great for groups celebrating milestones."
PositiveFrom post: Recommended Spots For A Group Of 1012 In Manhattan
"Recommended as a BYOB-friendly spot that serves specialty Chinese dishes."
PositiveFrom post: New York Best Seafood Eats Looking For 2 Days
"While popular for Chinese BBQ and roasted meats, it is noted to have less seafood variety than neighboring restaurants like Pings."
NeutralFrom post: New York Best Seafood Eats Looking For 2 Days
"Listed as a recommended seafood destination."
Neutral