Located in midtown NYC, Chai is a Chinese restaurant that specializes in Beijing cuisine. Although I wasn't familiar with the food, browsing the menu online convinced me to give it a try.
Upon arriving, I was struck by the warm and cozy atmosphere of the restaurant. The classic decor added to the experience. The extensive menu made it difficult to decide what to order, but with the help of the server, I was able to choose a variety of dishes to try.
To start, I was served the sour and spicy chicken, a cold dish that consisted of bone-in chicken mixed with Thai chili and vinegar sauce. The combination of spice and sourness made for an appetizing introduction to the meal. The duck roll was also a hit, with a perfectly crispy exterior and a generous filling of vegetables and duck.
The server recommended the signature seafood bisque, which I found to be exceptional. The soup boasted a variety of Chinese favorite seafood, such as sea cucumber, fish maw, abalone, and beef tendon, in a thick broth that was both delicate and rich.
One standout dish was the Hutong Pork Organ Stew, a delicious concoction of pork intestines, pork heart, and fried tofu in a thick, brown gravy. I also ordered the eggs in the meatballs, which were braised in a delicious sauce and reminded me of scotch eggs. The two dishes complemented each other well and paired perfectly with white rice.
For dessert, I indulged in Chai's Treasure Platter, which featured traditional Chinese sweets such as pea cake, bean rolls, snow balls, and rolling donkey. The flavors were delightful, and none were too sweet.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my meal at Chai. The cozy ambiance, extensive menu, and exceptional dishes made for a memorable dining experience.