Lou Yau Kee

- 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169

Introduction / Overview

In the bustling heart of New York City, where countless dining options vie for attention, finding a truly authentic and memorable culinary experience can feel like a quest. For those who appreciate the delicate, flavorful nuances of traditional Asian cuisine, Lou Yau Kee stands out as a genuine hidden gem. This Asian-owned establishment has quickly garnered a reputation among locals and food critics alike for its specialization in Hainanese chicken rice—a dish celebrated for its perfectly poached or roasted chicken, fragrant rice, and accompanying sauces. Located conveniently in Midtown East, Lou Yau Kee offers a taste of culinary tradition that transports diners far beyond the city's concrete jungle. The restaurant prides itself on delivering a comforting, casual dining experience with fast and friendly service, making it an ideal spot for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or even a solo meal. The menu, while focused, is crafted to perfection, ensuring that every dish is a highlight. From the tender poached chicken to the rich, soy-glazed roasted chicken, each plate is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality and flavor. Beyond the signature chicken dishes, Lou Yau Kee also offers other delightful options like shredded chicken porridge and flavorful sides, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal for any palate. The commitment to authenticity and the warm, welcoming atmosphere make Lou Yau Kee more than just a place to eat; it's a destination for anyone seeking a genuine and delicious taste of home-style Asian cooking in the heart of New York City.

Location and Accessibility

Lou Yau Kee is strategically situated at 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169, USA, a prime location that places it right in the center of the action in Midtown Manhattan. This address makes it incredibly accessible for a wide range of people, from business professionals working in the area to tourists exploring iconic landmarks. The restaurant is a short walk from Grand Central Terminal, one of New York's major transit hubs, ensuring easy access via subway lines (4, 5, 6, 7, and S), Metro-North trains, and numerous bus routes. This central location means that whether you're coming from another borough or just a few blocks away, getting to Lou Yau Kee is a breeze. The surrounding area is vibrant and dynamic, filled with other dining options, shops, and offices, but Lou Yau Kee’s unique offering helps it stand out. The convenient accessibility is one of the key factors in its popularity, as it caters to the fast-paced lifestyle of New Yorkers who need a high-quality, delicious meal without a long commute. The location also makes it an excellent choice for a lunch meeting or a quick dinner before catching a show or an event in the neighborhood. Its presence on Park Avenue also adds a touch of prestige and makes it easy to find for first-time visitors.

Services Offered

• Dine-in service for a relaxed meal in a casual atmosphere.
• Takeout options for those on the go who want to enjoy their meal elsewhere.
• Delivery service, bringing the delicious flavors of Lou Yau Kee directly to your home or office.
• Accepts major credit and debit cards for convenient and secure payments.
• Caters to solo diners, making it a comfortable and welcoming spot for a meal alone.
• Offers quick bites and small plates for a light meal or to share.
• Provides a full menu for both lunch and dinner, catering to different dining schedules.
• Alcohol and beer are available to complement your meal.
• The menu includes comfort food and quick bite options, perfect for any craving.
• Friendly for children, making it a suitable choice for a family meal.

Features / Highlights

• Identifies as an Asian-owned business, bringing authentic cultural flavors to the New York food scene.
• Known for its fast service, ensuring you get your meal promptly, which is a significant advantage in a city where time is of the essence.
• Highly popular for lunch and dinner, a testament to its consistent quality and appeal to a broad audience.
• Signature dishes include the highly acclaimed Poached Chicken Rice and Roasted Chicken Rice, with many customers raving about the tender and flavorful chicken.
• Offers a variety of beverages, including Diet Coke, Coke, and Water, to accompany your meal.
• The menu features popular sides like Cabbage Soup and Rice, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• A popular spot for solo diners, offering a comfortable and non-intimidating environment.
• Offers a restroom for customer convenience.
• The atmosphere is casual, inviting diners to relax and enjoy their food without any pretense.
• The red chili sauce is a standout feature, praised by customers as a perfect and essential condiment.

Contact Information

Address: 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169, USA

What is worth choosing

Lou Yau Kee is more than just another restaurant; it’s a culinary experience well worth seeking out in New York City. The primary reason to choose this establishment is its unwavering commitment to authenticity and quality, particularly with its signature dishes. The Hainanese chicken rice, available in both poached and roasted varieties, is often described by customers as the best they've had in the U.S. This is a significant claim, given the dish's popularity and the high standards of food lovers. The chicken is consistently praised for being incredibly tender and succulent, a mark of meticulous preparation. Whether you opt for the classic poached version, celebrated for its delicate, silky texture, or the roasted chicken, which bursts with rich soy flavor, you are in for a treat. Customers have also noted that while the poached chicken is a divine choice for purists, the roasted version is often a surprising star of the show. The flavors are well-balanced and satisfying, and the accompanying fragrant rice is the perfect canvas for the savory chicken. Beyond the main attraction, the menu offers other delights that are equally worth exploring. The shredded chicken porridge is a comforting and nourishing option, while the piping hot Laksa has been lauded as one of the best in the city, with a perfect balance of spice and richness. The attention to detail extends to the sauces, with the red chili sauce earning a special mention for its sublime, flawless flavor. This makes the meal not just about the chicken, but about a symphony of tastes that come together perfectly. The quick and efficient service means you can enjoy a high-quality meal even on a tight schedule, and the casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it suitable for any occasion, from a solo lunch to a gathering with friends. The fact that it's a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and even solo dining speaks volumes about its broad appeal. In a city where quality and time are of the essence, Lou Yau Kee delivers on both fronts, providing an authentic and satisfying taste of Asian comfort food that is truly a cut above the rest. Its reputation, built on word-of-mouth and glowing reviews, is a testament to the exceptional food and service it provides, making it a must-visit destination for anyone in New York looking for an authentic and delicious meal.

Lou Yau Kee

230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169, USA