Authentic Sichuan Chinese w/ Michelin-starred quality. Great for groups, dates, and solo dining w/ veggie options.
This establishment is a highly-regarded Chinese restaurant in Midtown, celebrated for its authentic Sichuan cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. It's noted for its upscale yet approachable dining experience, with a menu that caters to various tastes, including a good selection of vegetarian options. The restaurant has also held a Michelin star for several years, underscoring its consistent quality and culinary excellence.
This restaurant excels in authentic Sichuan cuisine, with many dishes receiving high praise. Standouts include Mapo Tofu, Wontons in Chili Oil, and the Kung Pao dishes, though some users note inconsistencies in preparation. Vegetarian options are available and appreciated. The "crispy eel" and "tea-smoked duck" are also mentioned positively.
"Customers frequently recommend the Wontons in Chili Oil, Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao dishes, and the crispy eel. The tea-smoked duck and cold noodles with chicken are also highlighted as delicious options."
Customers generally have a very positive view of this restaurant, praising its authentic Sichuan flavors, quality ingredients, and appealing ambiance. While some minor criticisms exist regarding consistency, the overall feedback highlights a strong dining experience.
Important Note
One user noted that for Kung Pao, while the seasoning is good, the chicken texture and sauce consistency could be improved, with the dish sometimes being too soupy. Another user mentioned that the restaurant had previously moved locations, and some prefer a sister restaurant, Chili.
"The user explains that Cafe China's older location was on 37th and Madison, and if the inquirer has been to a location not off Madison, they have already visited the newer one."
Neutral"In response to a question about when Cafe China moved, the user clarifies that the previous location was on 37th and Madison, implying the current one is the newer location."
Neutral"A user suggests chili over Cafe China, stating that the old chefs from Cafe China opened chili after the move. They found their last experience at Cafe China to be disappointing."
Negative"Cafe China is recommended for lunch due to its reasonable prices and old-school atmosphere, and it's not too far from the hotel. The crispy eel is specifically recommended."
Positive"This user recommended Cafe China for work dinners, noting that it has private rooms available upstairs."
Positive"The original poster notes that good things have been heard about China Cafe and encourages more recommendations."
Positive"Cafe China, formerly a Michelin-starred restaurant, is recommended for its ability to accommodate groups ordering shared dishes, with plenty of vegetarian options."
Positive"The commenter noted that Birds of a Feather is a sister restaurant to Cafe China and shares the same menu."
Neutral"The commenter found the Kung Pao at Cafe China to be a good option for lunch but generally preferred Chili for all dishes."
Neutral"The commenter stated that many chefs from Cafe China moved to Chili, which is in the same location as the former Cafe China. They expressed a strong preference for Chili over Cafe China."
Negative"The user reviewed the Kung Pao dish at Cafe China, noting it was quite good but could be improved with more wok hei, fewer Sichuan peppercorns, and larger pieces of ginger. They also found the rice to have a distinct, slightly off taste compared to other Chinese restaurants. Despite the criticisms, they would happily eat the dish again and ranked it second in their personal Kung Pao rankings."
Negative"Cafe China is recommended for those looking for Sichuan cuisine, indicating it's a well-regarded option."
Positive"This user recommended Cafe China for a meal with parents, citing its great food and similar vibe to Potluck Club, noting that it is not loud."
Positive"After clarification, the user acknowledges Cafe China is not in Chinatown but reiterates that their crispy eel is good."
Positive"This restaurant was initially recommended, with a specific mention of their crispy eel dish."
Positive"The user simply lists Cafe China as a recommendation."
Positive"The user suggested Cafe China, mentioning its location around 36th street."
Neutral"Regarding Cafe China's Kung Pao, the user notes that while the seasoning and peppercorn/chili balance are perfect, the chicken is not always well-seared and the dish can be soupy. They also mention that the sauce tends to be thin and would prefer it thicker, and while the dish is awesome, texture of the chicken could be improved."
Positive"The user considers the Kung Pao at Cafe China to be their preferred version, despite some reservations. They find the seasoning to be on point with perfect use of peppercorn and chili, and appreciate the wokhei smokiness."
Positive"Cafe China is ranked third among preferred Kung Pao spots, although it can be inconsistent. They use Sichuan peppercorns but sometimes lack smokiness."
Neutral
