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Handsome RiceB-Worth Trying

Name: Handsome Rice
Address: 133 E 31st St, New York, NY 10016, New York, United States
Rating: 4.6

133 E 31st St, New York, NY 10016 · Korean restaurant, Hamburger restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (299 reviews)

Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Creative Korean lunch-box shop with standout galbi and a popular burger, but portions and consistency vary; best for quick, flavorful takeout rather than a sit-down meal.

Why it gets a B- for overall quality

Handsome Rice delivers solid Korean fusion comfort food with strong galbi and burger execution and efficient, friendly counter service, earning its loyal following as a hidden gem. However, variable meat quality and portion sizes across visits, combined with tight outdoor-only seating, limit it to casual neighborhood appeal rather than reliable fine dining. Best approached as a quick, budget-friendly lunch spot where expectations align with its counter-service format.

Restaurant Summary

A compact counter-service spot in Murray Hill, Handsome Rice feels small but lively, geared to quick lunches and takeout with outdoor tables. Fans rave about the galbi and burgers, calling them “a hidden little secret,” while others note inconsistent portions. Service reads as efficient and friendly at the counter, though it is self-serve outdoors. The cooking leans Korean fusion rather than strict tradition: think kimchi arancini, creamy kimchi pasta, and Korean-sauced burgers alongside bulgogi, jeyuk, and purple rice bowls. On a good day the short rib can shine, but multiple diners report variability in meat quality and sides, so expectations should skew toward casual comfort over classic Korean formalities. For families, the menu is surprisingly accommodating. Kids tend to gravitate to burgers and fries, dumplings, and banana pudding, while more adventurous eaters can explore mild, fusion-leaning bowls. There is no indoor seating and it is counter-service only, but quick pacing and familiar items make it easy for casual family meals.

At a Glance

Galbi and bulgogi praised when executed well
Korean-influenced burgers are a sleeper hit
Portion size and meat-to-rice ratio inconsistent
Bibimbap presented as salad-style, not traditional
Expect outdoor seating only and counter pickup

What Sets It Apart

Korean-fusion burger lineup
Purple rice lunch boxes
Compact counter-service model

What People Love

Craveable galbi on its best days
Korean-sauced burgers with a nostalgic kick
Purple rice base that feels hearty
Banana pudding that pleasantly finishes the meal

Points of Concern

Inconsistent portions and meat quality; some bowls feel rice-heavy
Bibimbap is a salad-style bowl rather than a traditional hot stone mix
A few isolated food safety/foreign object complaints, owner responded
Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (allegations from a few reviews and marketing-style praise) which may not reflect typical diner experience

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost$26-38 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Choose a defined protein bowl like galbi or bulgogi for stronger flavors
Pair a burger with truffle fries for a satisfying compact meal
End with banana pudding for balance without heaviness

Perfect For

Quick weekday lunch near Midtown East
Casual takeout dinner with fusion flavors
Solo bite with an outdoor perch
Burger fans curious about Korean sauces

Location Insights

Area: Busy Midtown East/Murray Hill corridor catering to office workers and residents; fast-casual lunch traffic and evening takeout.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked streets; typical Midtown lighting and foot traffic into the evening.

Nearby: Near offices, residential high-rises, and casual eateries; convenient for takeout and quick outdoor bites.

Kips BayKips Bay is a primarily residential neighborhood with a mix of mid-rise apartment buildings and some newer developments. The dining scene includes casual eateries, family-friendly restaurants, and some trendy spots catering to local residents and hospital staff from nearby medical centers. The atmosphere is lively but more relaxed compared to the nearby Midtown core.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–21:00 Tuesday11:00–21:00 Wednesday11:00–21:00 Thursday11:00–21:00 Friday11:00–21:00 Saturday12:00–20:00 Sunday

Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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