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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Chinatown, Houston

Authentic barbecue spots

Made for those who demand traditional preparation methods and a no-nonsense approach to barbecue.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Chinese restaurant

Small, unpolished space with an old Chinatown vibe and affordable prices. Atmosphere feels cozy but unkempt, with quick service and a focus on authentic Cantonese cuisine. Regulars appreciate its traditional dishes and consistent quality despite modest surroundings.

Dishes serve authentic Cantonese classics in a small setting that keeps the food true to tradition. The menu offers delicious, genuine Chinese flavors throughout.

Chinese barbecue stands out with BBQ Pork and a solid BBQ Plate option. Claypot dishes add variety alongside classic Cantonese BBQ flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Cantonese classics."

"I found the food here to be great and authentic."

"I've been coming here since I was a child for the Chinese barbecue."

Good to know

1

Prices for lunch dishes are $7.50 each, making it affordable for multiple orders.

2

Cleanliness has been reported as an issue, with some tables appearing unkempt.

3

Expect quick service, as food typically comes out promptly.

02
Midnight Kabob and Seafood image 1

Restaurant offers karaoke entertainment with a lively party atmosphere and multiple TVs showing different shows. The vibe ranges from laid-back and relaxing with hip hop and rap music to buzzing with grilled meat and seafood aromas. Diners enjoy a family-friendly setting where chatting and laughter create a harmonious mood.

Chinese BBQ dishes deliver authentic flavors with delicious skewers and well-executed barbecue throughout.

Chinese-style barbecue features well seasoned skewers like lamb, enoki, and eggplant served fresh and hot. The flavor stays balanced, not too salty, with a wide variety of options including authentic seafood selections.

People are saying

"The seafood here is super fresh and delicious."

"The barbecue skewers here are amazing and perfectly seasoned."

"The authentic Chinese skewers are perfectly marinated and grilled to smoky perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9pm to 1am with cheap beer options.

2

Prices for beer during happy hour are only $12 for any kind.

3

The restaurant is open late until 1am for night owls.

03
Golden Time BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Modern space with automatic self-turning grills creates a casual and fun vibe. Atmosphere stays friendly and clean with good ventilation, supporting comfortable conversation. Small grill size suits intimate groups, while authentic Chinese street-style BBQ offers flavorful, perfectly cooked meats.

Seasoning captures traditional street-side BBQ from China with authentic flavors throughout. The experience feels genuine yet approachable for newcomers to Chinese barbecue.

Chinese-style barbecue features authentic skewers with a strong Asian BBQ flavor. The spot serves late-night BBQ that draws repeat visits for its amazing taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The barbecue here is tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked."

"I loved the authentic Chinese street-style BBQ flavors."

Good to know

1

Last call for food is at 1:15am.

2

The all-you-can-eat option ends at midnight.

3

Skewers are priced 1.5 times higher than at other places.

04
King Bakery image 1

Old-style bakery with handwritten menus and dilapidated furniture creates a traditional Hong Kong neighborhood vibe. Atmosphere feels rundown but authentic, with locals gathering for coffee and bread. Only cash payments accepted, and bread like pineapple bun and char siu bao stands out for freshness and flavor.

Baked goods like pineapple bread, char-siu bread, and egg tart keep the authentic Hong Kong flavor. Recipes stay true without adapting to local tastes.

BBQ pork buns have a balanced filling that is not too fatty or sweet. They come in a reasonable portion for the price and stay tasty even when cold.

People are saying

"This bakery's Hong Kong-style bread, like the pineapple bun, is so good."

"It's like stepping back into a Hong Kong street corner bakery."

"The barbecue pork bun filling is not too fatty or sweet."

Good to know

1

King Bakery is a cash-only bakery, so bring cash for purchases.

2

Egg tarts are ready at 9:30 AM daily; arrive early to avoid sold out items.

3

Parking can be busy, but there's a garage next door.

05
Mensho image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small space with cramped seating creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere. The vibe feels authentic and lively, often busy with a steady flow of diners. First-come, first-served seating and close tables encourage a bustling, communal dining experience.

Ramen here offers an authentic Japanese vibe with flavors that feel elevated beyond typical versions. The food and atmosphere create a cozy, genuine experience close to what you'd find in Japan.

Texas Wagyu BBQ stands out with rich, smoky flavors. The BBQ Ramen offers a robust smokiness and a subtle chili oil heat without overpowering spice.

People are saying

"I had the best ramen I have ever tasted."

"The ramen here tastes super authentic, just like in Japan."

"The Texas BBQ ramen bowl was super smokey and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis for tables.

2

Expect a wait time of about 15 minutes during peak hours.

3

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long waits.

06
Hong Kong's Cafe 香 港 茶 餐 廳 image 1
Hong Kong style fast food restaurant

Hong Kong style fast food restaurant offers authentic Hong Kong dishes with affordable prices and a cash-only policy. The space is small with typical Chinese decor and a casual, cafe-style atmosphere. It attracts those seeking genuine flavors rather than Americanized Chinese food.

Strong authentic Hong Kong style food defines this spot, focusing on Cantonese dishes and street food. It feels like a genuine Hong Kong cafe rather than American Chinese cuisine.

Barbecue duck and pork stand out with tender, flavorful meat. Pork slices come super thin, and duck or chicken meat varies between white and dark meat by chance.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Hong Kong cafe food here."

"I loved the authentic Hong Kong style breakfast here."

"The Barbecue duck here is amazing, tender, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash or Zelle as payment methods.

2

Expect to find authentic Hong Kong style breakfast options on the menu.

3

Prices are very affordable for the quality and portions.

07
Hongdae 33 Korean BBQ image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue restaurant offers vibrant lighting and lively music creating an energetic vibe with a cozy interior. Guests cook their own food at small grills, enjoying a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor seating on a balcony adds variety to the dining experience.

Exceptional Korean BBQ captures authentic flavors, especially in the Galbi. An impressive variety of banchan complements the meal, creating a welcoming and genuine Korean dining experience.

Offers a 90-minute all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ for $33 on weekends. Serves authentic, high-quality meats with attentive service, making it a go-to spot for Korean BBQ lovers.

People are saying

"The food here is great and delicious."

"The Korean Barbecue here has amazing servers who are super friendly."

"The Authentic meats here are fresh, well-marinated, and grilled to perfection."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat price is $33 per person with a 60-minute dining limit.

2

Happy hour offers half-price drinks from 4 PM to 6 PM on weekdays.

3

Birthday celebrations are welcomed, and servers sing for guests.

08
MDK Noodles (Myung Dong Kyoja) image 1

Spacious dining area with dim lighting creates a relaxed and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of Seoul. The place draws those seeking fresh homemade noodles and flavorful kimchi dumplings distinct from typical Korean BBQ spots.

Handmade noodles and fresh, homemade kimchi deliver authentic Korean flavors. Every dish offers a soul-satisfying taste true to traditional recipes.

Offers Korean BBQ shortribs like galbi alongside basic Korean barbecue and dumplings. Provides a different experience from typical Korean BBQ spots.

People are saying

"I had to repeatedly ask for a spoon for my soup."

"The authentic handmade noodles here are springy and satisfying."

"The Korean BBQ shortribs here have a very nice flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough in this location due to shared space with other retail stores.

2

MDK Noodles stays open until 11 p.m.

3

Expect a casual dining atmosphere with no strict dress code.

09
Xin Jiang BBQ image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small seating area with an updated interior creates a cool vibe. Skewers offer authentic Northern-style flavor and quick preparation suits late-night visits. Prices are higher than average, and the place hosts varied group options.

Flavors capture authentic northeastern Chinese charcoal grilled skewers with lamb and beef skewers reflecting Northern-style grilling. Other dishes offer a mix of bold and authentic tastes.

Charcoal grilled skewers deliver authentic northeastern Chinese flavors with excellent taste. The BBQ chicken stands out as delicious and popular with kids, all at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"The Chinese BBQ food here is authentic and packed with flavor."

"The BBQ skewers here are juicy and packed with flavor."

"The Chinese barbecue skewers here are so flavorful and authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect to spend $35-40 per person to feel full.

2

The chicken plate costs $18 and is substantial.

3

Parking is available, but it may be a bit further away.

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Chinatown, Houston

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