TLDR
Trendy Taiwanese fare w/ standout dry beef noodles & a popular, albeit pricey, chicken sandwich. Fun, casual vibes on St. Mark's.
Details
A casual Taiwanese restaurant in NYC's East Village, 886 is lauded for its modern take on classic dishes and its vibrant atmosphere [1]. While some debate its authenticity, many praise its flavorful offerings, including standout items like the dry beef noodles and a highly-discussed chicken sandwich [2]. The restaurant is noted for being a fun and affordable option, especially for group dinners [1].
Food Overview
886 offers a modern and trendy take on Taiwanese cuisine, with many dishes receiving high praise. Standouts include the dry beef noodles, described as having a 'nice, light zing,' and a highly popular, though pricey, chicken sandwich [2]. Other recommended items include the scallion pancake, Taiwanese sausage, and fried tofu [4], [5]. While many find the food delicious and a good value, some question its authenticity, with one commenter noting the restaurant describes itself as 'inauthentically authentic Taiwanese' [3], [6]. A unique cocktail, the 'bad idea drink,' has also been mentioned [7].
Highlights / Recommended
"Standout dishes at 886 include the dry beef noodle, praised for its zing, and a delicious, though expensive, chicken sandwich. Other highly recommended items are the scallion pancake, Taiwanese sausage, and fried tofu."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •chicken sandwich(3)
- •hot and sour soup(3)
- •hot rod(2)
Caveats
Some diners have noted that the restaurant can be quite loud [1]. There is also a recurring discussion about the authenticity of its Taiwanese cuisine, with some questioning whether it represents traditional Taiwanese food, although others acknowledge the restaurant's own description of being 'inauthentically authentic' [2]. The price of certain popular items, like the chicken sandwich, is also a point of contention for some [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About 886
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Lastminute Reservation Downtown To Catch Up With
"This user listed 886 as a recommendation."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Get Large Format Drinks
"This user mentioned 886, a Taiwanese restaurant, and its 'bad idea' drink, which is a potent mix of sake, red wine, soju, and coke. The user noted they are not a fan of red wine in drinks."
NeutralFrom post: Visiting From Seattle With A Group Critique My
"The user is planning a trip to NYC and included 886 on their list of potential restaurants to visit."
NeutralFrom post: Heading To Nyc And Dont Want To Leave With Regrets
"This commenter recommends 886 for modern and trendy Taiwanese cuisine."
PositiveFrom post: Which Nonfast Food Chicken Sandwiches And Tender
"This user recommended 886."
PositiveFrom post: Your Favorite Go To Restaurant That Doesnt Break
"Recommends 886 in the East Village."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting Nyc Looking For Hyper Specific Recs
"This user recommended 886 near the East Village for Taiwanese food."
PositiveFrom post: Fun Not Too Expensive Dinner Spot For Two
"After reviewing the menu, the user agreed that 886 looks like a great option."
PositiveFrom post: Fun Not Too Expensive Dinner Spot For Two
"886 is suggested as a potential option for the group."
PositiveFrom post: Scallion Pancakes
"This commenter agreed that 886 is a gem all around and stated it is incredibly good."
PositiveFrom post: Scallion Pancakes
"This commenter recommended 886 on St Marks for its awesome scallion pancakes."
PositiveFrom post: The Chicken Sandwich At 886
"The author defends comparing Electric Burrito and Super Burrito, arguing they are similar SF-inspired burrito spots and a comparison is reasonable."
NeutralFrom post: Fun Sit Down Meal Les Under 75 A Person
"886 is mentioned as a place on St. Marks where one can get drinks."
NeutralFrom post: The Chicken Sandwich At 886
"The author questions if the chicken sandwich at 886 is better than Popeyes' spicy chicken sandwich."
NeutralFrom post: The Chicken Sandwich At 886
"The author acknowledges that $18 is pricey but typical for NYC and notes that the sandwich is filling and generously sized, unlike some competitors."
PositiveFrom post: The Chicken Sandwich At 886
"The author asks if the person complaining about prices runs a restaurant."
NeutralFrom post: The Chicken Sandwich At 886
"The author states that it's not the year 2000, implying that current NYC prices for food are higher."
NeutralFrom post: The Chicken Sandwich At 886
"The author states that the 'Hot Rod' burrito is their regular order."
PositiveFrom post: The Chicken Sandwich At 886
"The author emphasizes that 886 is located in the East Village."
NeutralFrom post: The Chicken Sandwich At 886
"The author praises the 'Hot Rod' option at Electric Burrito, stating it's their go-to."
Positive