Exceptional Thai chicken & rice. Seriously legit Hainanese chicken. A must-try Elmhurst gem.
This Elmhurst-based Thai eatery is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Khao Mun Gai. While some purists insist it's the only dish worth having, many patrons rave about its exceptional steamed Hainanese chicken. The fragrant rice and tender chicken are often cited as highlights, with a unique ginger-green onion sauce that elevates the experience. For those seeking a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal, this spot is a true gem.
Specializing in Khao Mun Gai (Hainanese chicken rice), this Thai restaurant is highly recommended for its flavorful and tender steamed chicken. The fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth is a consistent highlight. While some commenters note the quality of the chicken might have changed, the dish is still widely considered exceptional and a must-try for fans of this cuisine. There are mentions of roasted chicken and shredded chicken noodles as other offerings.
"The steamed Hainanese chicken (Khao Mun Gai) is the overwhelmingly recommended dish, celebrated for its tenderness and flavor. Some also mention the fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth as a standout."
Customers overwhelmingly praise the restaurant for its authentic and delicious Thai chicken rice, often calling it 'seriously legit'. While the steamed Hainanese chicken is the star, some reviews indicate minor recent quality shifts.
Important Note
One commenter noted a potential decrease in quality since the restaurant previously used a different type of chicken, and another felt the chicken was overcooked or firmer than preferred.
"This comment mentions Eim Khao Mun Kai as one of the excellent restaurants on a particular block in Elmhurst, highlighting the area's culinary strength and convenient access from Astoria."
Neutral"A commenter felt that the chicken at this establishment was firmer compared to the silkier texture found in Singapore's version, noting that many NYC versions have this issue."
Negative"Correction made that the restaurant does serve Khao Mun Kai Thod (fried chicken rice) in addition to Khao Mun Kai."
Neutral"This user contrasted the sauces, stating Thai versions include chili, garlic, and soybean paste, while Singaporean versions are bland."
Neutral"This commenter stated they actually prefer other versions of chicken rice found in Elmhurst over this particular restaurant."
Negative"This user commented that the dish looked disgustingly bland."
Negative"This individual mentioned that they used to frequent the restaurant when it also offered roast chicken and deep-fried chicken."
Neutral"A commenter suggested that dipping the chicken rice in the ginger green onion sauce creates a perfect flavor combination."
Positive"A user asked how Thai Hainanese chicken differs from regular Hainanese chicken, mentioning their girlfriend is from Hainan and has always wondered."
Neutral"A new location of the restaurant has opened in the East Village."
Neutral"This user inquired about the differences between Thai and Singaporean chicken rice."
Neutral"A commenter noted that the quality has decreased since they previously used a yellow Chinese chicken, now opting for a white chicken."
Negative"Providing context on chicken rice, this user described it as simple, comforting, and delicious, with tender chicken poached in broth and fragrant rice cooked with aromatics, recommending it be tried."
Positive"This commenter expressed a high opinion of the restaurant, suggesting a post-meal visit to Pata Market for mango sticky rice."
Positive"This user simply recommended trying the dish, and in a subsequent reply, described Hainanese chicken rice as the epitome of simple yet delicious, not aiming to be flashy."
Positive"This commenter was curious about Hainanese chicken rice, finding its appearance unappealing and questioning its taste."
Neutral"This commenter stated that the chicken at the restaurant was overcooked."
Negative"A commenter expressed their enjoyment of the dish and asked for recommendations for the best chicken rice in Manhattan."
Positive"The commenter has been going to Eim Khao Mun Gai since it opened and has taken friends and family, all of whom dream about it afterward. They clarify it is Thai style, not Cantonese poached chicken."
Positive"Eim Khao Mun Gai in Elmhurst is recommended as the best Hainan chicken/khao man gai in NY."
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