TLDR
Convenient, authentic Hainanese chicken rice in a lively food hall setting. Renowned for its signature chicken texture.
Reddit Sentiment for LOU YAU KEE HAINAN CHICKEN RICE II(based on 17 Reddit opinions)
Details
Located within the Vanderbilt Market food hall, this spot specializes in traditional Hainanese chicken rice [1]. While some patrons laud the superior texture of the chicken [2], others have noted inconsistencies in quality and portion sizes since the move to the new location [6]. It serves as a quick, accessible option for those near Grand Central, though experiences with seasoning levels vary significantly among diners [1, 10].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on Hainanese-style chicken rice, which receives high praise for its texture from some fans [2]. However, several customers have complained that the food is often overseasoned and excessively salty [1, 10, 13]. While some enjoy the inclusion of sides like yu choy [1], others have reported a lack of vegetable accompaniments and a decline in the quality of the chicken itself [6].
Caveats
The restaurant is located inside the Vanderbilt Market food hall, meaning there is no dedicated seating or service, and meals are provided in take-out packaging [1]. Diners may find the seasoning heavy-handed, so requesting sauce on the side is recommended [13].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About LOU YAU KEE HAINAN CHICKEN RICE II
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Is There Anything Worth Trying At Urban Hawker
"Mentioned as an alternative for Hainanese chicken, run by the individual who trained the staff at Hainan Jones."
PositiveFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This commenter expressed interest in trying Lou Yau Kee and thanked the original poster for the review."
NeutralFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"The original poster acknowledged the negative review of Lou Yau Kee, noting their own experience was from late last year and thus not as recent."
NeutralFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This commenter had a very disappointing recent experience at Lou Yau Kee's new location, noting significantly higher prices, the absence of yu choy, skinless chicken, small portions, and soggy, tasteless chicken. They contrasted this negatively with their past positive experiences at the Union Square location."
NegativeFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This user stated Lou Yau Kee is their favorite."
PositiveFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This user found Lou Yau Kee to be overly seasoned and suggested ordering the seasoning soy and sesame oil on the side to improve the dish."
NegativeFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This user recalled enjoying Lou Yau Kee when they were located near Union Square and is glad to know they are now in Midtown. They also mentioned Hainan Jones, West New Malaysia, and Eim Khao Mun Kai as other good options."
PositiveFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"The original poster thanked ARASLS for their recommendation."
NeutralFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This commenter had a negative experience with the saltiness at Lou Yau Kee and other restaurants, finding Singapore Social's satay and nasi lemak good but laksa average. They advised against Kelang nasi lemak."
NegativeFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This commenter announced their intention to visit Lou Yau Kee for lunch and promised to share their thoughts."
NeutralFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This commenter found Lou Yau Kee to be terribly salty, especially the rice, and recommended Wok Wok Noodle House or Singapore Social instead."
NegativeFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This commenter again states Lou Yau Kee is their favorite due to the superior texture of the chicken compared to other city spots."
PositiveFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"This commenter identifies Lou Yau Kee as their favorite, stating that the chicken texture there is superior to most other places in the city."
PositiveFrom post: Where Does Stephen Colbert Order His Steamed
"Suggests Lou Yau Kee in Vanderbilt is a better option for steamed chicken, though they personally prefer their fried chicken platter."
PositiveFrom post: Nyc Hainanese Chicken Rice Roundup Hainan Chicken
"The author found Lou Yau Kee convenient to access from Grand Central and appreciated the inclusion of yu choy with the chicken rice. However, the food was considered slightly overseasoned, bordering on salty. The restaurant operates within a food court (Vanderbilt Market), meaning no dedicated seating or service and food is served in take-out boxes, suggesting it's best for takeout."
NeutralFrom post: Where Does Stephen Colbert Order His Steamed
"Mentions Lou Yau Kee at 44th and Vanderbilt as another place to get poached chicken."
PositiveFrom post: Visit Soon Are There Any Singaporean Restaurants
"Lou Yau Kee is mentioned as a good option for Hainanese chicken, especially when eaten fresh and hot."
Neutral