TLDR
Incredible Sichuan-style fried chicken sandwiches on sweet milk bread. A casual, high-quality takeout-forward spot for bold, crispy heat.
Instagram Posts References
This post highlights Pecking House for its highly recommended Sichuan chicken sandwiches, described as underrated. The sandwiches are presented as a must-try item, with the image showcasing the appetizing interior of the sandwich.
Pecking House in Chinatown is known for its Sichuan chili fried chicken, with a particular highlight being their chili sandwich. The chicken in the sandwich is described as crispy, juicy, spicy, and slightly numbing, generously doused in chili oil, with two slices of white bread on the bottom to soak it up. They also offer salted egg chicken wings, which were considered good but not exceptionally memorable. A 'spice bag' containing fried chicken and fries was tried for the first time but was disappointing due to a lack of seasoning and spice. The accompanying curry sauce was also not well-received, described as tasting like pre-made blocks. Due to limited seating, takeout is recommended.
Will Hartman reviews Pecking House, a small Chinatown spot famous for its Chinese-inflected fried chicken. Discover their standout chicken sandwiches, unique sides, and lively atmosphere.
Details
Renowned for its Chinese-spiced fried chicken, this spot has built a loyal following for its crispy, juicy thighs and bold flavor profiles [1]. The move to its intimate Chinatown location has been met with enthusiasm, offering a lively, cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying signature items like the chili-drenched chicken sandwich [1]. While the chicken remains the star, many diners find the sides, such as the potato salad and butter beans with black vinegar vinaigrette, to be equally compelling highlights [1].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on American-style fried chicken with deep Chinese and Sichuan influences, resulting in dishes that are both crispy and heavily seasoned [1]. The chili-spiced sandwiches—served on sweet milk bread—are widely considered the standout offering [1], [5], though the spice bag, featuring Szechuan peppercorns and housemade sauces, is also a highly praised unique option [6]. Customers should be aware that the batter on vegetable items like fried cauliflower has occasionally been reported as undercooked [4].
The OG chili chicken sandwich is a highly recommended favorite for its perfect crunch and spicy oil, while the spice bag is frequently noted as an excellent, flavor-packed dish [1], [5], [6].
Overall feedback is highly positive, with patrons frequently citing the restaurant as a top-tier destination for fried chicken in the city [2]. While the experience is generally reliable, there are occasional reports regarding inconsistent quality in specific non-chicken items like the spice bag or cauliflower [3], [4].
Most Mentioned Dishes
- 01spice bag9 mentions
- 02fried chicken4 mentions
- 03cellos x pecking house collab pizza3 mentions
- 04chicken sandwich2 mentions
- 05chicken2 mentions
- 06chicken (cellos x pecking house collab pizza)2 mentions
Caveats
Due to the restaurant's small size, seating is extremely limited, making it primarily a takeout-focused establishment rather than a destination for a formal sit-down meal [1], [6].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About PECKING HOUSE
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Closest Thing To Aladdins Fries Seattle In Nyc
"The commenter notes that while not a direct substitute for the requested dish, the restaurant is worth checking out for their spice bag."
PositiveFrom post: If You Didnt Care About Presentation Or Ambiance
"A brief mention of this restaurant."
NeutralFrom post: Restaurant Recommendations For Adventurous 10yo
"Suggested for chicken."
PositiveFrom post: Fried Chicken Sandwich In The City Any
"Simply recommended as a location in Chinatown."
PositiveFrom post: Fried Chicken Sandwich In The City Any
"This is their favorite spot in the entire city, not just for the sandwich. They mention the restaurant moved to Chinatown."
Positive