Uncle Lou 快樂人 Introduce
In the heart of New York City's vibrant Chinatown, Uncle Lou 快樂人 stands as a beacon of authentic Chinese cuisine. This is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural experience, a place where traditional Cantonese flavors are celebrated and served with a modern flair. The name, "快樂人" (kuàilè rén), translates to "Happy People," and that's precisely the atmosphere you'll find here. Located on the bustling Mulberry Street, Uncle Lou is a local favorite that has earned a reputation for its exceptional food, warm hospitality, and lively ambiance. For both longtime New Yorkers and curious tourists, it offers a genuine taste of home-style Chinese cooking that is both nostalgic and exciting. Stepping inside, you're greeted with a cozy, trendy, and casual setting that, while sometimes crowded, is always filled with energy and the sounds of people enjoying a fantastic meal. The staff is known for being friendly and efficient, ensuring that the service is always quick, a major plus in a busy city. This combination of authentic food, a welcoming environment, and a dedicated team makes Uncle Lou a true gem in the heart of Chinatown and a must-visit spot for anyone craving a taste of real Chinese cooking.
The culinary journey at Uncle Lou goes beyond the ordinary. The menu is a comprehensive collection of classic dishes, from delicious Dim Sum to a wide array of seafood, meats, and vegetarian options. It's a place that takes pride in its heritage, offering local specialties that might be hard to find elsewhere. Dishes are not only flavorful but also beautifully presented, showcasing the kitchen’s attention to detail and commitment to quality. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a solo meal, or a big dinner with a group of friends and family, Uncle Lou provides a memorable experience. The restaurant is also recognized as an Asian-owned business and a safe space for the LGBTQ+ and transgender communities, making it an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone. Its consistent quality and dedication to customer satisfaction have solidified its spot as one of the best dining options in Chinatown.
Uncle Lou 快樂人 is perfectly situated at 73 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013, placing it in the epicenter of Chinatown's cultural and culinary scene. This highly-accessible location is surrounded by the neighborhood's unique shops, markets, and historical landmarks. Getting to the restaurant is a breeze, with numerous subway lines serving the area, including the 6, J, Z, N, Q, R, and W trains, all just a short walk away. This makes it a convenient dining spot no matter where you're coming from in the city. For those who choose to drive, paid street parking is available, though it's important to be prepared for the busy nature of the neighborhood. The restaurant is also fully committed to accessibility, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and gender-neutral toilets. This thoughtful design ensures that all patrons can dine comfortably and confidently, making Uncle Lou a welcoming space for a diverse crowd.
Uncle Lou offers a variety of service options to accommodate different dining preferences and needs. These services are designed to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for every customer:
- Dine-in: Enjoy the full experience in the cozy and trendy atmosphere of the restaurant. With both table service and counter service, you can choose the dining style that best suits you. Reservations are accepted and recommended for dinner, as the restaurant can get crowded, especially on weekends.
- Takeaway: For those on the go, Uncle Lou provides an efficient takeaway service. You can call ahead to place your order and pick up your favorite dishes to enjoy at home or on the go.
- Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is particularly useful given its popularity and the fact that there can be a wait, especially during peak dining hours.
Uncle Lou 快樂人 is celebrated for its unique features that contribute to its outstanding reputation. These highlights make it a standout among the many dining options in the area:
- Fast Service: Customers consistently praise the "very quick service," which is a major draw for both busy New Yorkers and tourists on a schedule. This efficiency does not come at the expense of quality or friendliness.
- Local Specialty: The restaurant is known for serving local specialties, which are a major draw for authentic-food enthusiasts. The menu's "Lo Wah Kiu Favorites" section is a testament to this, offering dishes that resonate with traditional Cantonese flavors.
- Exceptional Food Quality: Reviewers often highlight the high quality of the food. One customer noted that "everything tasted fresh and cooked perfectly," and another said the food was "excellent."
- Extensive Drink and Food Offerings: The menu features a full bar with beer and wine, as well as a wide range of offerings including comfort food, healthy options, and small plates. The extensive Dim Sum menu is also a major draw.
- Atmosphere and Crowd: The ambiance is described as a mix of casual, cozy, and trendy, attracting a diverse crowd including families, groups, and tourists. The inclusive, welcoming vibe is also noted, with the restaurant identifying as an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space.
- Accessibility and Amenities: In addition to being wheelchair accessible, the restaurant has a bar on site, gender-neutral toilets, and Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable and convenient place to dine.
For reservations or to place an order, you can contact Uncle Lou 快樂人 using the following details:
Address: 73 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013, USA
Phone: (212) 966-5538
When you visit Uncle Lou, you’re faced with a menu filled with enticing options, but a few dishes stand out as must-tries. The "Lo Wah Kiu Favorites" section is a great place to start, as it features dishes that are beloved by the community. The "Crispy Garlic Chicken" and "Homestyle Chenpi Duck" are excellent choices for a rich and flavorful main course. One reviewer specifically praised the "Peking duck," calling it "not only delicious but also plated beautifully." This signature dish, available as a whole or half portion, is a perfect option for a group. The "seafood crispy pan-fried noodles" are another highlight, with a customer noting they were "bursting with flavor" and "cooked perfectly." For something lighter or to start your meal, the Dim Sum menu is a treasure trove of options. A reviewer gushed that they "haven’t found better rice rolls in the city anywhere," making the "Rice Noodle Rolls" an absolute must-order. Other favorites include the "Pork & Shrimp Shumai" and the "Har Gow." For vegetable lovers, the "Pea Shoots Sautéed W. Garlic" and "Dry-Fried Green Beans" are fresh and perfectly prepared. For a refreshing beverage, the tea that is served at the beginning of the meal is often noted for being "really good." Finally, for those who enjoy a bit of heat, the "Wontons in chili oil" offer a spicy kick. The menu's wide range of choices, from classic favorites to local specialties, ensures that everyone in your party will find something to love. With its combination of authentic flavors, a vibrant atmosphere, and friendly service, Uncle Lou 快樂人 truly lives up to its name, providing a happy and satisfying dining experience that is well worth seeking out in New York City.
Uncle Lou 快樂人 Menu
Lo Wah Kiu Favorites 老華僑經典小菜
- Steamed Buffalo Fish US$27.95
*w. Ginger & Scallion or Braised Pomelo Peel
- Crispy Garlic Chicken US$23.95
Half bird bone-in
- Homestyle Chenpi Duck US$24.95
Half bird bone-in, sun-dried mandarin orange peel sauce
- Sand Ginger Poached Chicken US$23.95
Half bird bone-in
- Fried Sweet & Sour Spare Ribs US$27.00
- Homestyle Seafood Stir-Fry US$27.95
garlic chives, fried squid & noodlefish, jellyfish, jicama, sesame
- Sizzling Black Pepper Beef Short Ribs US$28.95
- Fried Salt & Pepper Prawns, Scallops & Squid US$29.95
- Fried Salt & Pepper Flounder Fillet US$29.95
- Lamb Stew Casserole US$29.95
tofu skin, red dates, mushroom, water chestnuts
- Stuffed Tofu Skin Wraps US$26.95
bamboo shoots, cabbage, wood ear mushrooms, dried tofu
- Stuffed Eggplants, Chilis & Fried Tofu W. Black Bean Sauce US$28.95
stuffed w. shrimp + fish
- Pan-Fried Whole Flounder US$29.95
- Steamed Whole Flounder US$29.95
- Oxtail Stew Casserole US$29.95
- Braised Pork Belly W. Mui Choy US$26.95
(preserved mustard greens) served w. steamed baos (6)
- Pan-Fried Lotus Root Pork Patties US$26.95
served w. steamed baos (6)
- Lobster Yee Mein Noodles
Scallion ginger lobster wok-tossed noodles
- Braised Beef Brisket US$26.95
w. Radish Casserole
- Soy-Glazed Salmon Steak US$27.95
- Beef Fillet Cantonese Style US$29.95
- Beef Fillet Sautéed US$29.95
w. Garlic Chives
- Beef Fillet & Okra In US$29.95
Black Pepper Sauce
- Sea Cucumber Intestines US$45.95
Sautéed w. Garlic Chives
- Crispy Tofu W. Sliced Conch & Scallops US$48.95
- Fried Salt & Pepper Frog US$39.00
- Clam & Choi Poh Omelette US$24.95
Shucked clam, salt-preserved daikon
Dim Sum
- Pork & Shrimp Shumai US$7.50
- Har Gow US$7.50
- Vegetable Spring Rolls US$6.50
- Steamed Roast Pork Bun US$5.50
cha siu bao
- Steamed Chicken Bun US$5.50
- Pork Dumplings US$7.50
steamed or fried
- Chicken Dumplings US$7.50
steamed or fried
- Wontons in chili oil US$8.25
shrimp
- Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf Lo Mai Gai US$6.95
chicken, lap cheong sausage, dried shrimp, mushroom
- Salt & Pepper Chicken Wings US$12.95
- Pan-Fried Shrimp and Chives Dumplings US$7.95
- Steamed Vegetable Dumplings US$7.50
- Scallion Pancake US$7.50
- Steamed Salted Egg Yolk Custard Buns US$6.75
- Salt & Pepper Stuffed Green Chilis US$7.95
stuffed with shrimp + fish
- Stuffed Eggplants in Black Bean Sauce US$7.95
stuffed with shrimp + fish
- Fried Crispy Stuffed Tofu US$7.95
stuffed with shrimp + fish
- Crab Rangoon Jaa Hai Gork US$10.00
- Stuffed Crab Claws US$13.00
- Rice Noodle Rolls US$8.75
Choice: plain, scallion & cilantro, shrimp, beef, char siu, dried shrimp
Seafood
- Honey Walnut Jumbo Shrimp US$27.95
- Scallion X Ginger Jumbo Shrimp US$27.95
- Jumbo Shrimp In Yuxiang Garlic Sauce US$27.95
- Sweet & Sour Jumbo Shrimp US$27.95
- Jumbo Shrimp In Lobster Sauce US$27.95
- Kung Pao Shrimp US$27.95
- Scallops In Black Pepper Sauce US$29.95
- Fried Salt & Pepper Calamari US$27.95
- Red-Braised Tofu W. Fish Fillet US$27.95
- Fried Salt & Pepper Fish Fillet US$27.95
- Crispy Salt & Pepper Noodlefish US$27.95
aka icefish, aka silverfish
- Fried Salt & Pepper Whiting Fish US$27.95
- Flounder Fillet W. Luffa Gourd US$29.95
- Jellyfish Salad US$26.95
- Frog W. Yellow Chives US$39.00
- Stir-Fried Salted Fish, Clams & Garlic Chives US$27.95
- Steamed Chilean Sea Bass in XO Sauce or Black Bean Sauce US$39.95
Beef
- Crispy Orange Beef US$27.95
- Beef W. Broccoli US$21.95
- Beef W. String Beans US$21.95
- Beef W. Pickled Sour Cabbage US$21.95
- Beef & Bitter Melon In Black Bean Sauce US$21.95
- Beef W. Tofu US$21.95
- Beef W. Choy Sum US$21.95
Soup
- Egg Drop Soup US$4.50
- Hot & Sour Soup US$4.50
- Wonton Soup US$13.00
shrimp
- Fish Maw Soup US$28.00
Serves 4
Chicken
- General Tso's Chicken US$21.95
- Chicken In Yuxiang Garlic Sauce US$20.95
- Sesame Chicken US$21.95
- Jeh Jeh Gai Bo US$21.95
Sizzling Chicken Pot
- Kung Pao Chicken US$20.95
- Chicken W. Broccoli US$21.95
- Sweet & Sour Chicken US$21.95
- Curry Chicken US$21.95
- Steamed Herbal Chicken US$23.95
ginseng, angelica root, goji, red dates, dang shen root, bone-in chicken
- Dong Gu Lap Cheong Jing Gai 冬菇臘腸蒸雞 US$26.95
Pork
- Crispy Sweet & Sour Pork US$21.95
- Pork In Yuxiang Garlic Sauce US$21.95
- Twice-Cooked Pork US$21.95
Cantonese style
- Fried Salt & Pepper Pork Chops US$21.95
- Peking Pork Chops US$21.95
- Crispy Pork Intestine US$20.95
- Pan-Fried Pork Patties w. Salted Fish US$21.95
- Steamed Pork Patties w. Salted Fish US$21.95
- Cantonese Style Mapo Tofu US$21.95
- HK-Style Pork Chops w/ Onion US$21.95
Vegetables
- Pea Shoots Sautéed W. Garlic US$21.95
- Pea Shoots Sautéed W. Fu Ru US$21.95
(fermented tofu)
- Buddha's Delight US$20.95
rice noodles, fried tofu sticks, tofu, wood ear, mixed vegetables
- Baby Bok Choy W. Garlic US$21.95
- Water Spinach Sautée. W. Garlic US$21.95
- Water Spinach Sautée. W.Fu Ru US$21.95
(fermented tofu)
- Cauliflower + Oyster Mushroom In XO Sauce US$20.95
- Choy Sum W. Oyster Sauce US$19.95
- Asparagus Sautéed W. Garlic US$20.95
- Dry-Fried Green Beans US$19.95
w. Minced Pork
- Eggplant In Yuxiang Garlic Sauce US$19.95
- Red-Braised Tofu US$19.95
w. Mixed Vegetables
- Braised Egg Tofu &. Mixed Vegetables US$20.95
- Fried Crispy Tofu US$19.95
- Pan-Fried Tofu w. House Soy Sauce US$19.95
- Stir Fried Tomato & Eggs US$19.95
- Stir-Fried Bitter Melon & Eggs US$19.95
Fried Rice
- Ginger Fried Rice US$18.95
- Dried Scallop & Egg Fried Rice US$19.95
raisins, bacon, shrimp
- Dried Scallop, Egg White & Chinese Broccoli Fried Rice US$19.95
- Chicken & Salted Fish Fried Rice US$19.95
- Chinese Charcuterie (Lap Mei)Fried Rice US$19.95
- Yeung Chow Fried Rice US$19.95
shrimp, ham, char siu, peas, lettuce
- Mixed Vegetable Fried Rice US$18.95
- Bacon Fried Rice US$18.95
Duck
- Peking Duck (whole) US$68.00
- Peking Duck (half) US$35.00
- Braised Duck US$33.00
w. Mixed Mushroom Sauce
Sides
- White Rice US$1.50
- Brown Rice US$1.50
- Steamed Bao Buns US$5.00
(6)
Uncle Lou 快樂人 Details
From the business
- Identifies as Asian-owned
Service options
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar on site
- Gender-neutral toilets
- Toilet
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safe space
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Uncle Lou 快樂人 Photos










Uncle Lou 快樂人 Location
Uncle Lou 快樂人 Reviews
general tsocrispy garlic chickenstuffed eggplantwalnut shrimpginger fried ricechicken dumplingsscallion pancakecrispy orange beefchicken and broccoliamerican chinese food
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Excellent food. Atmosphere is a bit hectic and crowded, you’re very close to your neighbors no matter where you sit except the back booths. Super friendly staff, very quick service. Nice discount for paying in cash. Haven’t found better rice rolls in the city anywhere. Also sea spinach, which was great, not bitter, seasoned well. Don’t let the locals tell you this place isn’t good, which they do. Great spot.
August 19 · Renee MancinoThe food, the vibe, the way the dishes were presented, the quality, the service—literally everything was on point. Honestly, I think this is one of the best spots in Chinatown. We had the half Peking duck, which was not only delicious but also plated beautifully, and the seafood crispy pan-fried noodles, which were bursting with flavor. Everything tasted fresh and cooked perfectly.The only small thing was that we got tea at the beginning that’s really good , but at the end we were only served water after I asked for it. Not sure if that’s how it usually works here, but in most places they usually check or ask. Still, that’s just a tiny thing compared to how great the overall experience was. If I’m ever back in town, this place is definitely on my list again.
August 07 · Sangam ThapaWe came here on a Wednesday evening to try their Cantonese food. There was a line, but we were seated very quickly. The restaurant is small and nicely decorated with vibrant colors. The restaurant is pretty loud so I gave 3 stars for atmosphere.The service is fast and efficient. We ordered 1 appetizer and 4 mains for 3 people. Could not finish, so took home leftovers. There are many waiters so service was good if you need something. All the dishes we ordered were flavorful and a decent portion size. The only complaint is that they use cucumber as part of the vegetables mix rather than zucchini. Cooked cucumber is gross! Would return again and request no cucumber. Lol.
July 27 · JenniferReally enjoyed the food at this place!! We ordered Chicken noodles, chicken dumplings and shrimp and veg rolls and everything was tasty and decent quantity. Definitely worth checking it out if you don’t find any other options. It can get crowded and busy so I do recommend reservations. My overall experience 8/10.
June 27 · Sankalp MogulothuChinatown gem!Place was highly recommended and it easily exceeded expectations. We arrived on a Saturday evening and were seated right away (larger parties had to wait). Ambience was clean, nice and had a traditional feel.Ordered the veg fried rice and braided egg tofu with vegetables. Food was served quickly and the portions were family style.The braised egg tofu 10/10 - crisp veggies and soft boiled egg tofu in fried egg white skins. Can't recommend enough!Veg fried rice 8/10 - freshly made with no oily aftertaste, veggies were crunchy and the rice was right level of sticky.Great for families or date night ✔️
July 19 · Luv Sampat
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