Ming Kee
Ming Kee has some of the best cheung fun in Chinatown, and it comes on a branded plate that lets you know this China-based chain has been making these rice noodle rolls since 1981. And though this spacious Cantonese spot also serves solid clay pot rice and congee, it’s the cheung fun that makes Ming Kee worth a visit. The chewy rolls have tasty fillings like brisket or chicken and mushroom, and you can see the staff steam them in the open kitchen or dish highlight reel playing on some TVs. Ming Kee usually has a few groups also digging through the bottom a clay pot for some crispy rice bits, but it's never so busy that you can’t snag a table.
The must-order cheung fun has all sorts of fillings, but our three favorites are the tender beef brisket, juicy shrimp, and BBQ pork. Each plate is already topped with a tasty, slightly sweet soy sauce. But make sure to add some of the chili sauce hanging out on the table for an extra kick.
All of the clay pot rice costs about $10 and is made more for a pretty hefty individual serving than sharing. Get it for a hearty solo meal (we like the tender pork spare ribs which also come with gai lan). Or split it with a group for a break between rice rolls—don’t neglect the crispy bits at the bottom.
The curry chicken is another great non-rice noodle option. It has a nice balance of spices and saltiness, and the onions and bell peppers add a little sweetness.
