Chai Kitchen Introduce
Nestled in the bustling Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of New York City, Chai Kitchen offers a truly unique dining experience with its creative fusion of Thai and Chinese cuisines. This women-owned restaurant has quickly become a local favorite, celebrated for its bold flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and a menu that goes beyond the ordinary. For New Yorkers seeking an authentic yet innovative taste of Asia, Chai Kitchen is a standout choice that promises a memorable culinary journey.
The restaurant’s concept is built on a foundation of classic Asian dishes, elevated with modern twists and a creative flair. The result is a menu that is both familiar and exciting, with a perfect balance of comforting favorites and unique, must-try plates. Whether you're in the mood for a spicy noodle dish, a hearty fried rice, or a delicate appetizer, Chai Kitchen’s offerings are crafted to delight your senses. The friendly and professional service, combined with a cozy and trendy atmosphere, makes it an ideal spot for any occasion, from a casual solo lunch to a lively dinner with friends.
Chai Kitchen is popular for its lunch specials, which provide excellent value, and it's a bustling hub for dinner. It caters to a wide variety of diners, from tourists exploring the area to local families and solo diners looking for a satisfying meal. The restaurant prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming space, identified as an LGBTQ+ and transgender safe space, which adds to its warm and inviting community feel.
### Location and Accessibility
Chai Kitchen is conveniently located at 930 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019. Situated in the vibrant Hell's Kitchen district, it is perfectly positioned for theatergoers, tourists visiting Times Square, and locals in the Midtown area. The restaurant’s accessibility is a key advantage, with a wheelchair accessible entrance ensuring that it can accommodate all guests.
Getting to Chai Kitchen is incredibly easy, thanks to its proximity to major subway lines. It's just a short walk from the 50th Street station, which serves the C and E trains, as well as the 59th Street-Columbus Circle station, which is a major hub for the A, B, C, D, 1, and 2 trains. For those who prefer to drive, be aware that parking in this busy neighborhood can be a challenge. There is paid street parking available, and several paid parking garages nearby, offering convenient options for those arriving by car. The central location makes Chai Kitchen a perfect stop before or after an event, or simply as a destination for a delicious meal in the city.
### Services Offered
Chai Kitchen offers a comprehensive range of services designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable dining experience for all.
- Dine-in: The restaurant provides a full table service dining experience in its casual and cozy setting. There is both downstairs and upstairs seating available, with a lively bar onsite where you can enjoy their signature cocktails.
- Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home or on the go, Chai Kitchen offers a convenient takeout service.
- Delivery: The restaurant provides delivery services, including a no-contact option, ensuring that you can enjoy their delicious food from the comfort of your own home or office.
- Catering: Chai Kitchen also offers catering services, making it a great option for office lunches, private parties, and other events where you want to treat your guests to a taste of their unique fusion cuisine.
- Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is highly recommended, especially for groups or during peak dining hours, to ensure you get a table without a long wait.
- Counter Service: For a quick and easy experience, counter service is available.
### Features and Highlights
Chai Kitchen stands out for several key features that contribute to its popularity and positive reputation.
- Thai-Chinese Fusion Cuisine: The restaurant’s most significant highlight is its innovative menu that blends the best of Thai and Chinese cooking. This fusion approach results in a creative and flavorful selection of dishes you won't find anywhere else.
- Exceptional Cocktails and Tea Selection: The bar at Chai Kitchen is a major draw, offering a fantastic selection of cocktails, including unique signature creations like the Vietnamese Coffee Martini and the Butterfly Effect. They also have a great tea selection, perfect for pairing with your meal.
- Fast and Attentive Service: Diners consistently praise the staff for their quick, welcoming, and attentive service, which enhances the overall dining experience.
- Great for Various Occasions: Chai Kitchen is popular for lunch, dinner, and even late-night food. Its casual, cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for a solo meal, a date night, or a family outing.
- Wide Range of Offerings: The menu is incredibly diverse, offering everything from comfort food and quick bites to healthy and vegetarian options. There's a dish for every preference and dietary need, including small plates for those who want to sample a variety of flavors.
- Inclusive and Friendly Atmosphere: The restaurant’s commitment to being an LGBTQ+ and transgender safe space creates a welcoming environment for everyone, making it a comfortable and inclusive place for all members of the community.
### Contact Information
Address: 930 8th Ave, New York, NY 10019, USA
Phone: (212) 707-8778
### What is Worth Choosing
When you step into Chai Kitchen, you are met with a menu full of enticing choices that reflect the restaurant's unique Thai-Chinese fusion identity. For starters, the appetizers are a must-try. The Peking Duck Rolls offer a savory, crispy beginning, while the Mala Wings provide a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat. The Violet Blossom Peanut Dumplings are a unique and beautiful vegetarian option that showcases the kitchen's creativity.
Moving on to main courses, the menu is divided into Noodles and Rice dishes, each block offering something special. From the Rice section, the Crying Tiger, a marinated steak dish, has been highly praised by customers for its tenderness and delicious flavor. The Drunken Crab Curry Fried Rice is another standout, offering a rich and spicy seafood experience. For those who love classic noodle dishes, the Pad Thai and Pad See Eiw are expertly prepared, while the Khi Mao and Lemongrass Noodles offer a flavorful punch of spice. The Chiang Mai Noodles are a regional specialty that is well worth exploring.
Chai Kitchen also excels in its beverage program. The signature cocktails are a major highlight, with the Vietnamese Coffee Martini being a rich and complex favorite. The Red Lantern and Pink Pagoda are also excellent choices for those looking for a creative and refreshing drink. The extensive list of wines, beers, and spirits ensures there is a perfect pairing for any dish.
The overall dining experience is what truly makes Chai Kitchen worth choosing. The combination of flavorful food, inventive cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere creates a compelling reason to visit. The service is consistently friendly and fast, and the staff's attentiveness ensures that your needs are met. Whether you're a local in search of a new go-to spot or a visitor looking for a delicious and memorable meal near Times Square, Chai Kitchen delivers an experience that is both authentic and fresh. Its inclusive and family-friendly environment adds to its appeal, making it a great destination for a variety of occasions.
Chai Kitchen Menu
Lunch Specials
- Chai’s Fried Rice $16.95
Stir fried with egg, chinese broccoli & tomatoes in flavorful chef’s sauce
- Garlic N’ Broccoli $16.95
Sautéed w/ chicken, chinese broccoli and brown sauce
- Ka pow 🌶️🌶️ $16.95
Sautéed minced pork with chili, garlic, peppers, and basil sauce
- Pad Thai $16.95
Sautéed rice noodles w/ chicken, egg, peanuts, scallions and bean sprouts.
- Pad See Eiw $16.95
Sautéed flat rice noodles w/ chicken, egg, chinese broccoli and black soy sauce
- Khi Mao 🌶️🌶️ $16.95
Stir-fried thick rice noodles w/ chicken, lotus roots, baby corns, peppercorns and chinese broccoli in a chili basil sauce
- Lemongrass Noodles 🌶️🌶️ $16.95
Minced pork in spicy lime broth w/ rice noodles, peanuts, bean sprouts, scallions, crispy wonton skins
- Chicken Noodles Soup $16.95
Steamed rice noodles in clear, chicken in clear broth w/ scallions, cilantro, celery & bean sprouts
- Khao Tom $18.00
Thai-style rice porridge soup with minced pork, shiitake mushrooms, fresh ginger, scallions, cilantro, and celery
- Additional Protein & Substitutions
Options: Chicken, Beef +4, Vegetable, Tofu, Mock Duck +3, 3 Jumbo Shrimp +4, 5 Jumbo Shrimp +6, Squids +6
APPETIZERS
- Tom Yum Goong 🌶️🌶️ $9.00
Creamy, spicy, and citrusy broth with jumbo shrimp, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, tomatoes, mushrooms & scallions
- Tom Kha Gai $9.00
A silky coconut chicken soup, citrusy lime, galangal, tomatoes, mushrooms & scallions
- Crispy Veggie Spring Rolls (v) $10.00
- Sweet Corn Fritters (v) $12.00
- Asian Summer Cucumber Salad (v) $14.00
A bright blend of pickled red onions, mustard seeds, dills & sesame w/ herb oil
- Imperial Salad 🌶️ $16.00
Shredded green papaya, apple, mango, and sprouts tossed in a chili garlic lime dressing. Topped with rice crisps and peanuts
- Sai Oua Bao (3pcs) 🌶️ $14.00
Our signature steamed buns w/ Northern Thai Berkshire pork sausage “Sai Oua”
- Peking Duck Rolls $18.00
Fresh spring rolls filled w/ roasted duck, cucumber, carrot, tofu, sprouts, & scallions, topped w/ five-spice hoisin
- General Dumplings 🌶️ $16.00
Steamed shrimp & chicken dumplings tossed in chef’s aromatic chili + garlic oil & tobiko
- Violet Blossom Peanut Dumplings (v) $14.00
Caramelized onions, salted turnip & peanuts wrapped in steamed Ube rice crepes, coconut sauce & chili oil
- Afro Crab Rangoon $12.00
Crispy & creamy mozzarella with crab meat, wrapped in a delicate net w/ sweet plum sauce
- Shaolin Rolls $18.00
Steamed bouncy shrimp & chicken in rice noodle rolls w/ shiitake, tobiko, scallions, sweet & soy chili
- Bangkok Crunch 🌶️🌶️ $14.00
Crispy fried wontons stuffed w/ seasoned ground pork, topped with a chili lime garlic dressing, scallions & peanuts
- Mala Wings 🌶️🌶️ $16.00
Fried marinated wings tossed in mala chili peppers, ginger, garlic, sesame, and scallions
NOODLES
- Chiang Mai Noodles 🌶️ $24.00
Our famous Northern Thai style braised chicken in yellow curry broth w/ egg noodles, onions & pickled cabbages
- Lemongrass Noodles 🌶️🌶️ $18.00
Minced pork in chili lime broth, peanuts, bean sprouts, scallions & crispy wontons
- Seafood Dynasty $24.00
Assorted seafood w/ shiitake, chinese broccoli and carrots in XO gravy sauce over crispy egg noodles
- Classic Beef Noodles $24.00
24-hour five-spice braised beef shank w/ rice noodles, celery, chinese broccoli, & bean sprouts
- Pad Cha Ma Ma’ 🌶️🌶️ $24.00
Sizzling seafood w/ wheat wavy noodles, lotus roots, baby corns, & peppercorns in wild ginger chili sauce, tobiko, kaffir lime
- Pad Thai $18.00
Stir-fried rice noodles w/ egg, chicken, scallions, bean sprouts & peanuts in a sweet & savory tamarind sauce
- Pad See Eiw $18.00
Stir-fried thick rice noodles w/ egg chicken & chinese broccoli in a rich umami brown sauce
- Khi Mao 🌶️🌶️ $18.00
Stir-fried thick rice noodles w/ chicken, lotus roots, baby corns, peppercorns, chinese broccoli in flavorful chili & basil sauce
- Additional Protein & Substitutions
Chicken, Ground Pork, Tofu, Veggies, or Mock Duck +3, Beef +4, 5 pcs Jumbo Shrimp, Squid, Mussels, Mixed Seafood, Roasted 1/4 Duck +14, Seared Salmon +16
RICE
- Drunken Crab Curry Fried Rice 🌶️🌶️ $28.00
Signature stir-fried jumbo lump crab meat w/ scallions, peas & celery, basils, topped w/ house curry chili blend, oozy fried egg & ikura
- Dragon Pearls Fried Rice $24.00
Stir-fried lychee nuts with egg, onions, scallions, and cashews in XO sauce. Topped with grilled jumbo shrimp, cucumbers, and tobiko
- Khao Tom $18.00
Thai-style rice porridge soup with minced pork, shiitake mushrooms, fresh ginger, scallions, cilantro, and celery
- Kra Pow 🌶️🌶️ $18.00
Stir-fried minced pork in fragrant chili basil sauce, finished w/ a perfectly oozy fried egg
- Emerald Curry 🌶️🌶️ $22.00
Tender grilled marinated chicken in green curry w/ zucchini, lotus roots, carrots, baby corns, snow peas, & basils
- Szechuan Chicken 🌶️🌶️ $22.00
Wok-tossed crispy diced chicken with numbing szechuan chili, cashews, lotus roots, scallions, and sesame
- Crying Tiger 🌶️ $25.00
Tender slices of marinated grilled flank steak, served w/ E-San-style roasted rice chili sauce
- Sizzling Pig 🌶️ $25.00
Sizzling pork shoulder slices, w/ sweet chili tamarind sauce, napa & kaffir lime
- Thainanese Chicken Rice $22.00
Steamed aromatic chicken with fragrant ginger-garlic rice & Thai chili soybean sauce with a side of winter melon soup
- Roasted 1/2 Duck $32.00
(Choice of) - Lychee Panang Curry Sauce 🌶️ - Emerald Curry 🌶️ - Chili & Basil Sauce 🌶️🌶️
- Chai’s Thai Tempura 🌶️ $26.00
Jumbo shrimp tempura drizzled with roasted sweet chili sauce, fried shallots, cilantro & crispy vermicelli
- Salmon Panang Curry 🌶️ $26.00
Pan seared salmon w/ red peppers, broccoli, lychee, salted coconut cream & kaffir lime
- Branzino Fillets $28.00
(Choice of) - Whole Grilled Fillet w/ Chili, Garlic, & Lime Dressing 🌶️🌶️ - Fried Slices & Saute w/ Ginger, Leeks & Scallions Sauce 🌶️
- Veggie Wok (v) $16.00
Stir- fried assorted vegetables in black beans garlic sauce
- Additional Protein & Substitutions:
Chicken, Ground Pork, Tofu, Veggies, or Mock Duck +3, Beef +4, 5 pcs Jumbo Shrimp, Squid, Mussels, Mixed Seafood, Roasted 1/4 Duck +14, Seared Salmon +16
Dessert
- Lava Bao $12.00
Soft steamed buns filled with rich, creamy salted egg yolk custard
- Mango Sticky Rice Sundaes $12.00
Sweet fresh mango chutney w/ pandan sticky rice, coconut ice cream, fried mung beans
- Thai Chili Choc Mousse 🌶️ $14.00
Chef’s favorite dark chocolate tofu mousse w/ date, caramelized banana, cacao nibs, pecan tuile, ginger cookie crumbs, & toasted coconut (Dine in Only)
- Ice Cream Scoop $6.00
Choice of flavors: Coconut, Chocolate, or Vanilla
SIDE DISHES
- Steamed Edamame w/ Sea Salt $8.00
- Jasmine Rice $3.00
- Organic Brown Rice $4.00
- Garlic Rice $4.00
- Steamed Rice Noodles $3.00
- Wheat Wavy Noodles $3.00
- Egg Noodles $4.00
- Fried Egg $4.00
- Boiled Egg $3.00
CHAI’S SIGNATURE COCKTAILS
- Vietnamese Coffee Martini $17.00
Our Signature Robusta Vietnamese Coffee, Mr.Black, Absolute, Khalua, Frangelico
- Red Lantern $17.00
Hibiscus, Espolon Tequila, Madre Mezcal, Blackcurrant Cassis, Chipotle
- Pink Pagoda $16.00
Tropical White Rum, Domain Liquor, Ginger, Guava Syrup, Li Hing
- Butterfly Effect $18.00
Hendrick's Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Soho Lychee, Violet Bitter, Egg White
- White Lotus $16.00
Yuzu Liqueur, Sake, Pisco, Lemongrass Yuzu Syrup, Egg White
- Blue Porcelain $17.00
Key Lime Rum, Coconut Rum, Curacao, Lemongrass Chili Syrup, Mints, Seltze
- Margarita $16.00
Honnitos Tequila, Madre Mezcal, Lime, Cointreau, Tajin Choice of: (Classic Lime / Spicy Serrano / Passion Fruit / Pomegranate)
- Bubbly Bellini $15.00
Fruit Purée with Sparkling Prosecco Choice of : (OJ / Passion Fruit / Strawberry / Lychee)
MOCKTAILS
- Virgin Ginger Mojito $12.00
Sprite, Ginger, Mint, Lime
- Phony Negroni $12.00
SAKE
- Kato Sake Works Junmai $12.00
Dry apple, wild flower honey, prickly pear, bamboo shoots, served Hot or Cold
- Kato Sake Works Yuzu $12.00
A blend of junmai sake & yuzu juice, refreshing and undoubtedly unique.
BEER
- Singha $8.00
- Sapporo $8.00
WHITE WINE
- House Chardonnay $13.00
- Sauvignon Blanc $46.00
Bottle
- Pinot Grigio $46.00
Bottle
RED WINE
- House Cabernet Sauvignon $13.00
- Merlot $46.00
Bottle
- Pinot Noir $46.00
Bottle
SPARKLING WINE
- Sparkling Wine $14.00
RUM
- Barcadi $13.00
- Captain Morgan $13.00
- Malibu $13.00
- Meyer’s $14.00
VODKA
- Absolut Vodka $13.00
Plain, Lime, Citron, Ruby and Mandarin
- Tito’s $13.00
- Ketel One $14.00
- Grey Goose $16.00
GIN
- Beefeater $14.00
- Tanqueray $16.00
- Bombay Sapphire $14.00
- Botanist $16.00
- Hendrick’s $16.00
WHISKEY
- Macallan 15 Year $18.00
- Chivas Regal $14.00
- Jack Daniel’s $14.00
- Maker’s Mark $14.00
- Johnny Black Label $14.00
- Jameson $14.00
BRANDY
- EJ Brandy $13.00
TEQUILA
- Hornitos $13.00
- Patron $16.00
- Casamigos $16.00
- *Additional fee may apply for special request
NON-ALCOHOL:
- Thai Iced Tea $6.00
Milk / Lychee or Lime, Boba +1
- Thai Iced Coffee $6.00
Boba +1
- Unsweetened Ice Tea $5.00
- San Pellegrino (large) $9.00
JUICE:
- Lychee, Apple, Pineapple, Lemonade, Cranberry and Orange $5.00
- Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Seltzer and Ginger Ale $3.50
- Shirley Temple $5.00
TEA:
- Jasmine Green Tea $4.00
- Black Tea $4.00
Chai Kitchen Details
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great tea selection
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Paid parking garage
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Chai Kitchen Photos










Chai Kitchen Location
Chai Kitchen Reviews
tipchiang mai noodlesgreen currythai iced teapad see ewpineapple fried ricethai fried ricelycheepanang currykhao soi
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1My girlfriend took me here for my birthday and we loved it so much we came back the following week! The food is full of flavor and has such a cool Thai–Chinese fusion twist. The Vietnamese Coffee Martini was amazing — rich and complex. Service was super welcoming and attentive. Can’t wait to come back again!
August 21 · Robert RobinWe were a group of 6 that made last minute reservations and had to sit upstairs. Even though the downstairs is more aesthetically appealing it did not bother us at all to sit upstairs as the food more than makes up for it. Everyone in our group loved what they ordered. I had the crying tiger marinated steak and it was tender and delicious. Friendly service as well!
July 28 · Carlos SiglerThe Chinese-Thai fusion here is absolutely delicious — You can really taste the harmony between bold Chinese spices and fragrant Thai herbs. The dishes are creative but still comforting. Highly recommended!!
May 31 · Chop It Like It’s HotThe food here was amazing. I loved the mango papaya salad, my salmon panag curry with lychee and my tofu pudding dessert. Some of the best Thai I’ve ever had
August 18 · ChristinaI worked in the area and used to come to this restaurant frequently before the pandemic. I really enjoyed the food, but the staff was what had me coming back. I remember exchanging pleasantries with the owner or manager every time. It was such an inviting restaurant. I was in the area yesterday and decided to stop in for lunch, and to my surprise, nothing changed. The food was still great, space was still beautiful and the staff were warm and welcoming. I didn’t see manager and don’t know if she’s still working there, but I’m definitely making an effort to return consistently. Thank you for your great food and hospitality. See you soon!
August 20 · Dustin Celestine
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