TLDR
Upscale Midtown Chinese spot blending bold Sichuan and Hunan flavors. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and versatile menu, perfect for both business dinners and group gatherings.
Arden Shore reviews Blue Willow, a Chinese restaurant in Midtown offering a scene and standout mapo tofu. It's a good option for corporate cards, date nights, and impressing visitors.
Details
Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this establishment offers a sophisticated blend of Sichuan and Hunan cuisines served in an atmosphere defined by elegant velvet banquettes and a bustling bar [1]. While some diners debate its specific regional focus, many frequent visitors appreciate the authentic flavors and the broad menu that accommodates everything from corporate dinners to casual outings [1], [2], [3]. Although it has been a consistently popular recommendation, some recent feedback has highlighted concerns regarding fluctuations in food quality [4].
Food Overview
The menu bridges the gap between authentic, spice-forward Sichuan and Hunan dishes and more accessible American-Chinese staples [1], [6]. The mapo tofu is a frequently cited standout, prized for its signature mala spice and excellent texture [1]. While some enjoy the adventurous options, others appreciate the availability of crowd-pleasers like sesame chicken [6].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About BLUE WILLOW
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Seeking Economical Dinner Places 4560 Pp In
"Recommended as a place to check out for better price points via the Michelin Bib Gourmand list."
PositiveFrom post: Visiting For Anyc Staying Near The Port Authority
"Recommended for Szechuan cuisine."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Think Makes The Best Sesame Chicken
"The user briefly states that this place is good."
PositiveFrom post: Suggestions On Favorite Chongqingdry
"The commenter lists this as a place to get the dish."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Classic Americanchinese Food In
"Blue Willow was mentioned as a good option for Americanized dishes, alongside The Corner, with a note on the decline of Mee Noodle and Shun Lee's quality."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Classic Americanchinese Food In
"The commenter suggested Blue Willow as a place that, like most Chinese restaurants, offers American-style dishes to cater to a broad audience."
NeutralFrom post: Restaurant Recs
"This user listed 'Blue Willow' as a potential restaurant recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Cheap Eats In Upper Midtown
"This user recommended Blue Willow as a fun place to eat in the Upper Midtown area, noting that while some corporate lunch spots are pricier, Blue Willow is a good option."
NeutralFrom post: Options For Quieter Italian And Chinese In Midtown
"After clarification, this commenter confirmed 'Blue Willow' was the intended suggestion."
NeutralFrom post: Options For Quieter Italian And Chinese In Midtown
"This commenter confirmed the name 'Blue Willow' after it was initially mentioned."
NeutralFrom post: Options For Quieter Italian And Chinese In Midtown
"This commenter initially suggested 'blue willow' along with Quality Italian, later clarifying the name after a reply."
NeutralFrom post: Places To Eat Near The American Girl Doll Store
"Blue Willow is mentioned as a place that serves Chinese food."
NeutralFrom post: Inexpensive Lunchdinner
"Blue Willow is recommended for Szechuan cuisine."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations For Taking Out Of Tower Family
"Blue Willow is listed as a recommendation, particularly in the context of Chinese cuisine options."
PositiveFrom post: Recommendations For Taking Out Of Tower Family
"Blue Willow is mentioned as a common recommendation for Chinese food in NYC."
PositiveFrom post: Please Help Me Decide On A Dinner Date For 1st
"This user expressed a positive sentiment towards blue willow."
PositiveFrom post: Midtown Manhattan Corkage Fees
"The corkage fee at this restaurant is $40."
NeutralFrom post: Moody Restaurants Around Central Park For
"This user mentioned that Blue Willow has tables available, which could be a good option."
NeutralFrom post: What Are Hard To Find Food Items For You
"This user mentioned Blue Willow as one of the few places they've found that serves Moo Shu with fully homemade crepes."
PositiveFrom post: Iso Of Party Vibe Dinner For Big Group
"Blue Willow is suggested for its great food and lively atmosphere on a Saturday night."
Positive