Chinatown's Cantonese gem w/ classic dishes & a historic vibe. Sizzling ribs, Peking pork chops, family style, BYOB.
Nestled in Manhattan's vibrant Chinatown, this restaurant is a beloved spot for authentic Cantonese cuisine. It's praised for its traditional dishes, family-style service, and a pleasant atmosphere that accommodates both locals and tourists. While known for dishes like sizzling black pepper beef short ribs and Peking Style Pork Chop, it also offers American Chinese favorites. The restaurant has a history and a charming location on Mulberry Street that adds to its appeal.
The restaurant offers a strong selection of traditional Cantonese dishes, with notable mentions for their sizzling black pepper beef short ribs, Peking Style Pork Chop, and Hainanese chicken (though availability has varied). It also caters to those looking for American Chinese classics like General Tso's chicken. While many praise the authentic flavors and family-style portions, a few reviews mention mediocre or overly salty dishes, and a specific user noted a lack of surf clam noodles.
"Recommended dishes include the sizzling black pepper beef short ribs, Peking Style Pork Chop, and potentially Hainanese chicken. For fried rice lovers, the Salted Fish and Lap Mei varieties are highlighted. Traditional Cantonese banquet dishes and roast duck are also suggested."
Customers generally have a positive sentiment, often recommending it for its authentic Cantonese food and atmosphere. However, some have reported negative experiences with service and food quality, and wait times can be a factor during peak hours.
Important Note
Some users have reported negative experiences with service and food quality, with one finding the food mediocre and excessively salty. There have been mentions of it being more touristy and potentially involving long wait times on weekends. Additionally, there was a note about a temporary closure for Hainanese chicken and advice to bring cash, though it also accepts cards.
"The commenter suggested Uncle Lou's as a Chinese restaurant option, noting the original poster's preference for Asian cuisine."
Neutral"Uncle Lou's was recommended for Chinese food, although the commenter could not guarantee vegan options."
Positive"The commenter suggested Uncle Lou's as a Chinese food option for the group dinner."
Positive"This user listed Uncle Lou, The Tyger, Chinese Tuxedo, and Bodhi Kosher as Chinese restaurant options in Chinatown."
Neutral"Suggests Uncle Wu's Ang for a steamed fish and white rice meal, which should be easy on the stomach."
Positive"Uncle Lou in Chinatown is a well-regarded modern Cantonese restaurant that lists 'Lobster Yee Mein Noodles' as a popular dish, which is a close alternative to lobster chow fun."
Positive"In response to a recommendation for Uncle Lou, this commenter noted that it typically involves a two-hour wait."
Negative"This commenter recommended Uncle Lou."
Neutral"This user listed Uncle Lou's as a good option for a large group Chinese restaurant."
Positive"Uncle Lou was mentioned for its family-style dining, which is suitable for large groups and big portions."
Positive"This user also recommended Uncle Lou's, agreeing it is pretty good."
Positive"This user recommended Uncle Lou's, stating it is pretty good."
Positive"This user mentioned that their family has enjoyed gatherings at Uncle Lou's over the years, noting it has many tables for large parties."
Positive"This user listed Uncle Lou as a recommended restaurant for large groups."
Positive"Uncle Lou's in Chinatown is suggested as a preferred option over Wu's Wonton King for better Cantonese food, provided that noise is not an issue."
Positive"Uncle Lou's in Chinatown is recommended for its good mix of traditional and American Chinese dishes, with entrees costing around $20-30 each when served family style."
Positive"Responding to criticism, the original recommender states they have not had the same negative experience at Uncle Lou."
Positive"This commenter found Uncle Lou's food average and noted the lack of locals, suggesting it caters mainly to tourists seeking generic dishes."
Negative"A negative and informal comment referring to Uncle Lou as 'Uncle Losers'."
Negative"Despite wanting to like Uncle Lou, this commenter had two bad experiences with poor service and bland food, suggesting better options exist."
Negative
