TLDR
Authentic, no-frills Cantonese spot in Chinatown known for reliable roasted meats and classic congee. A long-standing staple for those seeking traditional, unpretentious eats.
Details
A long-standing Chinatown institution, this spot is celebrated for its authentic, no-frills Cantonese cuisine including roasted meats and noodle soups [13], [16]. While many diners view it as a reliable staple for comforting dishes like congee, some report a noticeable decline in quality and consistency in recent years [4], [5], [6]. Despite a dingy atmosphere and reputation for curt service, it remains a favorite for traditional, unpretentious dining [13].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in classic Cantonese fare, with widespread praise for its various congee options [15], [19], [21], wonton noodle soup [11], and crispy pork belly [2]. The char siu has received mixed reviews, with some finding it dry compared to other local establishments [5], [6].
Caveats
The establishment is cash-only [11] and generally maintains a no-frills, sometimes dingy, atmosphere with service that can be perceived as rude [13].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About BIG WONG
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Looking For Foodie Reccs That Are Not Heavy
"Recommended for congee."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find Good Congee Near The Seaport
"Suggests this spot is superior to other nearby congee options for that specific dish."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find Good Congee Near The Seaport
"Notes that the congee here is thin and pairs well with Youtiao or sweet options."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find Good Congee Near The Seaport
"Mentions they personally enjoy this restaurant as a reliable option for congee in Chinatown."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"Fish congee from Big Wong or most Cantonese BBQ restaurants in Chinatown is recommended as a comforting dish."
PositiveFrom post: Where Do You Order In From In The City When Youre
"Fish congee from Big Wong or most Cantonese BBQ restaurants in Chinatown is recommended as a comforting dish."
PositiveFrom post: 7 Day Nyc Need Food Recommendations Updated With
"Big Wong is recommended for Cantonese cuisine and roasted meats in Chinatown."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Best Black Bean Chow Fun Anywhere In Nyc
"The commenter suggested Big Wong as a usually good option for black bean chow fun, though they haven't had it in a while."
NeutralFrom post: Im On A Soft Food Diet For A Couple Weeks It
"This place was recommended for congee as a soft food option."
NeutralFrom post: Wontonmen In Nyc
"This user commented that it's easy to order the wonton noodle soup with char siu."
NeutralFrom post: Wontonmen In Nyc
"The user suggested that the desired ramen might be inspired by Chinese wonton noodle soup and recommended Big Wong in Chinatown, noting it is cash only."
NeutralFrom post: Cozy Restaurant In Chinatown With Great Food
"Big Wong on Mott Street is recommended for its no-frills Cantonese food, despite its dingy atmosphere and rude service. The commenter's family has frequented it for decades."
PositiveFrom post: Anyone Know Of A Bbq Noodle Rice Roll Similar To
"Big Wong is mentioned as a place that serves congee, and the commenter initially misunderstood the user's request for a specific noodle roll."
NeutralFrom post: Best Char Siu Cantonese Roast Pork In Nyc
"This commenter shares a long history with Big Wong, noting that the char siu has been dryer since the 2000s due to using leaner cuts and longer hanging times. Despite the decline, they still patronize it as a staple."
NeutralFrom post: Best Char Siu Cantonese Roast Pork In Nyc
"This user found Big Wong's char siu to be dry and inedible, suggesting the previous chef might have moved to Ming Wong."
NegativeFrom post: Best Char Siu Cantonese Roast Pork In Nyc
"This commenter believes Big Wong has declined significantly since COVID, with poorly executed dishes and all the original staff presumably gone."
NegativeFrom post: Best Char Siu Cantonese Roast Pork In Nyc
"Big Wong is listed as one of the recommended places for char siu."
PositiveFrom post: Best Char Siu Cantonese Roast Pork In Nyc
"In response to a comment about Big Wong's crispy pork belly, this user states that Kings Kitchen and Hayhay are better, especially Kings."
NegativeFrom post: Best Char Siu Cantonese Roast Pork In Nyc
"This user mentions that the crispy pork belly at Big Wong is pretty great."
PositiveFrom post: Best Char Siu Cantonese Roast Pork In Nyc
"Big Wong is a Chinatown staple that the commenter visits when feeling lazy. However, they feel nothing particularly stands out about their offerings."
Neutral