Ming Kee Kitchen

Cantonese menus can seem intimidating until you realize most spots just want to feed you without fanfare. Ming Kee Kitchen, tucked on Grand Street just west of Mott, falls squarely in that camp, favoring quick plates and pick-up lunches over fuss.

Find the stand at 237 Grand St, New York, NY 10002 between a bodega and an old roller-disco hallway—look for the red lanterns above the door. The counter only seats a handful, so orders to go move fastest.

The grill crackles through lunch and dinner with enough noise to drown out sidewalk chatter, but the rhythm keeps tickets moving for bite-sized trays of scallion pancakes, salt-and-pepper chicken wings, and cups of jasmine tea—children rarely complain once plates arrive.

Before the next wave arrives, program (212) 219-2886 into the phone so you can call ahead. Map directions work best after 1 pm when the sidewalks clear enough to park and walk.