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Red Sorghum 夜宴BWorth Trying
28-03 Jackson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101
· Chinese restaurant, Sichuan restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1011 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Bold, modern Sichuan/Hunan flavors in a stylish LIC room; excellent dishes but inconsistent service and pricey—go for food and vibe, not white-glove hospitality.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Red Sorghum delivers stylish ambiance and bold, addictive flavors in signature dishes like Chairman pork and peppercorn fish, but inconsistent quality between visits and uneven service attention—particularly near closing—prevent a higher grade. The attractive LIC setting and creative regional Chinese cooking appeal to diners seeking upscale neighborhood dining, though premium pricing and execution gaps keep it from competing with the area's most reliable establishments.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels stylish and swanky with an old-Shanghai bar glow, where plates land fast and aromas announce themselves. "Cocktails were smooth and dishes came in waves," one diner shared. Expect bold flavors and a lively crowd. The cooking leans creative regional Chinese with Sichuan and Hunan roots: classic techniques with modern touches rather than theatrics. Chairman pork, dan dan noodles, and peppercorn fish draw raves, while a few diners find seasoning heavy or rushed near closing. Prices sit above neighborhood joints but shareable portions and premium ingredients—duck, sea cucumber, lobster—help justify splurge dishes. Families do fine here thanks to kid-friendly staples like fried rice, lo mein, and chicken and broccoli, plus mild options amid the spice. The menu clearly marks chili and nut items; tofu and vegetable plates help vegetarians. That said, spice dominates many signatures, so coach picky eaters toward simpler dishes and consider lunch specials for value.
At a Glance
- Stylish decor and lively ambiance with a strong cocktail bar
- Standout classics like Chairman pork and peppercorn fish
- Service inconsistency and rushing near closing time
- Pricey for Queens; portions often generous but value varies
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- private_room_upstairs
- creative_regional_chinese_menu
- stylish_old_shanghai_bar
What People Love
- Addictive, numbing-spicy flavors done with finesse
- A <b>beautifully designed</b> room that feels celebratory
- Fast kitchen pacing when the room is humming
- Signature pork belly that melts into rich sauce
Points of Concern
- Service can feel hands-off: minimal check-backs, self-boxing leftovers
- Strict time limits and rushing near closing reported by multiple guests
- Delivery/pickup issues with missing items and difficult refunds
- Pricing is premium with occasional small takeout portions
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-68 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Peppercorn Fish Stew with Garden Fried Rice to temper spice
- Order Chairman's Pork with a vegetable like Garlic Sauce Eggplant for balance
- For lighter palates, choose Ginger Scallion Fish Fillet and Chicken & Broccoli from New Yorker section
Perfect For
- Sharing plates with friends over cocktails
- LIC locals wanting bold Sichuan/Hunan flavors
- Birthday groups using the private room
- Casual date night with a lively vibe
Location Insights
Area: Emerging LIC strip with upscale residential towers and creative offices; draws locals and Manhattan spillover.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit arterials with steady evening foot traffic; standard urban caution late night.
Nearby: Close to 7/E/M/G trains, MoMA PS1, residential high-rises, and bars; weekend crowds spike.
Long Island CityThe dining scene in Long Island City is diverse, featuring trendy cafes, upscale restaurants, and casual eateries that cater to a mix of locals and commuters. The area has a dynamic social atmosphere with a blend of industrial heritage and modern urban living, making it popular for both casual dining and nightlife.
Court SquareCourt Square is a sub-area within Long Island City known for its concentration of office buildings, tech companies, and upscale residential towers. Dining options here tend to cater to professionals seeking quick lunches, after-work drinks, and contemporary dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–22:00
Tuesday11:30–22:00
Wednesday11:30–22:00
Thursday11:30–22:00
Friday11:30–23:00
Saturday11:30–23:00
Sunday11:30–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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