TLDR
Modern, trendy Taiwanese favorites in the East Village; a reliable crowd-pleaser known for its high-energy vibe and signature dishes.
Details
Known for its modern, trendy take on Taiwanese cuisine, this East Village spot is a favorite for those seeking consistently high-quality, flavorful meals [1], [2]. While the food earns widespread praise, the lively atmosphere can be quite loud, which may impact the dining experience for some [3]. Despite debates regarding its traditional authenticity, many diners view it as an excellent, reliable destination for a satisfying meal [1], [4].
Food Overview
The kitchen specializes in modern Taiwanese plates, with many standout items like the crispy fried chicken sandwich, savory dry beef noodles, and flavourful Taiwanese sausage [1], [7], [8]. While popular staples like the scallion pancakes and fried tofu consistently earn high marks, the menu also features creative, non-traditional offerings [1], [8], [9], [10].
Highlights / Recommended
"Highly recommended items include the fried chicken sandwich, dry beef noodles, Taiwanese sausage, scallion pancakes, and the popular Fly's Head dish [1], [7], [8], [9], [10]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •chicken sandwich(3)
- •hot and sour soup(3)
- •hot rod(2)
Customer Sentiment
Overall, diners are highly enthusiastic about the food quality and value, frequently recommending it for groups and casual visits [1], [5]. However, the noise level is a recurring point of contention, and some purists occasionally question the traditional authenticity of the menu [3], [4], [6].
Caveats
The restaurant is frequently noted for being very loud, which can make quiet conversation difficult [3]. Additionally, some diners have questioned the traditional authenticity of the Taiwanese dishes, describing it as a modern or 'inauthentic' take [4], [6].
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