Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice

- 790 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019

In a city with a dizzying array of dining options, finding a restaurant that feels both authentic and genuinely special can be a challenge. Enter Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice, a beloved spot in New York City that has quickly become a go-to for lovers of true Singaporean comfort food. This restaurant is a tribute to the classic Hainanese chicken rice, a dish that is deceptively simple in its components but incredibly complex in its flavor. For anyone from a college student looking for a quick, delicious meal to a food enthusiast on the hunt for the city’s best hidden gems, Uncle Ray's offers a dining experience that feels both homey and extraordinary.

What sets Uncle Ray's apart is the genuine passion and expertise behind the food. The owner, Raymond Kiang, is a true master of his craft, with a deep family history in the world of Hainanese chicken rice. He is the son of the late Sergeant Kiang, one of the pioneers and co-creators of the iconic Chatterbox chicken rice in Singapore. Raymond brings this legacy and a lifetime of skill to every dish, ensuring that each plate of chicken rice is not just a meal, but a piece of authentic culinary heritage. The combination of a rich family history, an expertly crafted menu, and a welcoming, casual atmosphere makes Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice a true must-visit destination in New York.

Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice is located at 790 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019, in the vibrant and bustling neighborhood of Hell's Kitchen. This location is a culinary hotspot, with countless restaurants, theaters, and shops. Its proximity to major transportation hubs and the theater district makes it an ideal spot for a pre-show dinner or a meal before or after exploring the area.

The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, with numerous subway lines (including the A, C, E, N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, and M trains) and bus routes nearby. As a straightforward counter-service establishment, it has a casual and open layout that is good for a quick visit. While there is no dedicated parking, the area offers various parking garages and some paid street parking options. The casual atmosphere and welcoming vibe make it a comfortable spot for anyone to grab a bite to eat.

Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice focuses on providing fast and convenient service to its customers, while still maintaining the highest quality of food.

• Dine-in: The restaurant has a casual dining area where you can sit down and enjoy your meal in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for a quick bite or a solo dining experience.
• Takeout: For those in a hurry, the takeout service is efficient and ensures you can enjoy the delicious food on the go.
• No-contact delivery: Uncle Ray's offers no-contact delivery, a popular and convenient option for getting a hot, fresh meal delivered right to your door.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which can be a useful option during busier periods to secure your table.

The straightforward service model allows the restaurant to focus on what it does best: creating delicious and authentic food for a wide range of customers.

Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice has earned its reputation through a combination of its exceptional food and inviting atmosphere.

• Authentic Hainanese Chicken Rice: The restaurant specializes in this classic Singaporean dish, with both poached and roasted chicken options, served with fragrant, seasoned rice and a trio of signature dipping sauces.
• Expertly Crafted Dishes: The owner, Raymond Kiang, comes from a family of renowned chefs in Singapore and brings a high level of expertise to every dish. This is a place where every component, "even the soup," is "well-executed" and flavorful.
• Beyond the Chicken: While the chicken rice is the star, the menu features other standout dishes like the "Coffee Pork Ribs," praised for being incredibly tender, and the "Hainanese Pork Chop," known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior.
• Casual and Cozy Atmosphere: The setting is casual and unpretentious, making it a great place for a quick, comfortable meal for all types of customers, from college students to tourists.
• Great Value: The prices are considered fair for the quality and portion size, providing a great value for delicious, authentic food.

These features, coupled with the restaurant's dedication to its craft, make it a true gem for anyone seeking a unique and authentic culinary experience in New York.

For more information or to place an order, you can contact Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice at the following:

Address: 790 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019, USA

Phone: (646) 866-6900

Mobile Phone: +1 646-866-6900

When you visit Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice, the Hainanese chicken rice is undoubtedly the main event and what is most worth choosing. The "Duo Chicken Rice" is an excellent choice, as it allows you to sample both the "incredibly soft, juicy, and tender" poached chicken and the "flavorful and well-marinated" roasted chicken. Both are served with fragrant, seasoned rice and a side of soup, making it a complete and satisfying meal. The accompanying sauces, especially the chili and minced ginger sauces, are essential and add a perfect burst of flavor.

Beyond the signature chicken rice, several other dishes have received rave reviews and are worth trying. The "Trio Combo Chicken Rice," which includes a mix of poached, roasted, and char siu pork, is a great option for those who want to try a bit of everything. The char siu is noted for being "savory with a touch of sweetness." For a truly unexpected treat, the "Coffee Pork Ribs" are a must-try. One reviewer was surprised by how "tender" they were and loved the "subtle bitterness in the aftertaste" from the coffee marinade. The "Hainanese Pork Chop" is another crowd-pleaser, praised for being crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Even the "Shredded Chicken Porridge" has won over skeptics, with a reviewer stating they "genuinely enjoyed the chicken porridge here!"

Finally, don't miss the side of "Kailan (Chinese Broccoli)," which is topped with fried shallots and adds a fresh, tasty vegetable balance to the meal. The combination of well-executed classic dishes and surprising, delicious menu items makes Uncle Ray's a place where you can confidently order anything and know you'll get a high-quality, authentic, and satisfying meal. It’s a spot that truly delivers on its promise of being "the best Hainanese chicken rice in NYC."

Uncle Ray's Chicken Rice

790 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019, USA