Seemor
May Wah Fast FoodBWorth Trying
190 Hester St, New York, NY 10013
· Chinese restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (547 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Old-school Chinatown counter spot for pork chop or chicken leg over rice that is fast, filling, and very cheap, with occasional saltiness and service rough edges.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
May Wah Fast Food delivers reliable budget comfort food with strong food quality in its signature pork chop and chicken leg dishes, backed by exceptional speed and outstanding value. However, inconsistent execution—soggy fried items when not freshly prepared—and occasional safety concerns prevent a higher grade. A beloved Chinatown staple for quick, cheap meals, but not destination-level dining.
Restaurant Summary
Inside this Chinatown stalwart the vibe is no frills and fast: order at the counter, grab a tray, and your food might land in under a minute. Regulars rave about crispy chicken legs and hefty pork chops over rice, calling it "the cheap, filling bowl I crave" while noting it can be salty at times. Expect basic seating on the dine-in side and a steady stream of takeout on the other. The cooking leans classic Chinatown comfort with a Taiwanese lunchbox feel: fried pork chop or chicken leg over rice, meat sauce, pickled veg, and the optional braised egg. When the chicken is freshly fried, the skin crackles and the gravy ties it all together; when it sits, it can turn soggy. If you want artistry, look elsewhere; if you want speed and satisfaction, this hits the spot. Families on a budget will find plenty kids will actually eat: plain fried chicken or pork over rice, simple fried rice, and noodle soups. No formal kids menu, but prices are low and portions generous; just be mindful of the salty gravy and ask for sauce on the side if needed.
At a Glance
- Signature pork chop and chicken leg over rice deliver big flavor and portions
- Exceptionally cheap for Manhattan; full meal often under $14
- Lightning-fast fulfillment; great for quick lunches
- Quality varies when items are not freshly fried; occasional sogginess
- Reports of saltiness and rare hygiene or service incidents
What Sets It Apart
- decades_old_budget_staple
- signature_over_rice_sets
- ultra_fast_turnaround
What People Love
- Crispy, juicy chicken leg when fresh
- Huge pork chop that covers the rice
- Pickled vegetables that cut the richness
- Add-on egg that completes the bowl
Points of Concern
- Occasional reports of very salty gravy or meats; ask for sauce light or on side
- Freshness matters: chicken leg can be soggy if not just fried
- Service can feel rushed near closing; cash only can catch visitors off guard
- Rare but serious complaints about hygiene and undercooked items; isolated yet noteworthy
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$10-$14 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Order Pork Chop Over Rice ($7.50) or Chicken Leg Over Rice ($7.50) and add an egg ($0.75-$1).
- If sensitive to salt, request light gravy and extra pickled veg.
- For variety, pair a main with Hot and Sour Soup ($3+).
Perfect For
- A quick, filling lunch under $15
- Budget-friendly group takeout
- Solo comfort-food pit stop
- Nostalgia seekers for Taiwanese-style lunchbox vibes
Location Insights
Area: Dense Chinatown block with long-time eateries and foot traffic; practical, no-frills vibe serving locals and budget diners.
Safety: Busy, well-trafficked area; typical urban grit; no systemic safety issues in reviews.
Nearby: Near Little Italy border, shops, services, and other quick-serve Chinese spots; convenient for errands and casual bites.
Lower East SideThe Lower East Side is known for its eclectic dining scene, ranging from trendy restaurants and bars to traditional eateries. It has a lively social atmosphere with a mix of nightlife, art galleries, and boutique shops, attracting a diverse crowd interested in culture and culinary exploration.
NolitaNolita is a fashionable sub-area within the Lower East Side, characterized by upscale boutiques, chic cafes, and trendy dining spots. It offers a more polished and boutique-oriented atmosphere compared to the broader neighborhood.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday09:00–20:00
Tuesday09:00–20:00
Wednesday09:00–20:00
Thursday09:00–20:00
Friday09:00–20:00
Saturday09:00–20:00
Sunday09:00–20:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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