Best of 8 congee in Philadelphia
Congee, a type of rice porridge commonly consumed in East and Southeast Asia, has found a home in Philadelphia. This comforting dish is known for its versatility, as it can be prepared with various ingredients and flavors. Discover the top 5 places to try congee in Philadelphia, including Nan Zhou Hand Drawn Noodle House, Sang Kee Peking Duck House, David's Mai Lai Wah, EMei 峨嵋, and Nom Wah Philadelphia.
1. David's Mai Lai Wah
A historic Chinatown gem, open until 3 AM on weekends

David's Mai Lai Wah is well-known for its delicious congee, a popular dish among customers. The congee served here stands out for its comforting and satisfying qualities, making it an excellent choice for a late-night meal.
The congee at David's Mai Lai Wah is widely regarded as one of the best in town. Its comforting and flavorful taste is what makes it a must-try dish, appealing to those looking for a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
2. Nom Wah Philadelphia
One of the oldest dim sum parlors in the country, established in 1920

Congee is a delicious and comforting dish that is a must-try, especially on a cold day. Two excellent options to try this dish are here and Nom Wah, both of which offer amazing versions of this classic meal.
Nom Wah's congee is a hearty and satisfying option, with a perfectly balanced level of seasoning. At the same time, the congee served here is also an amazing choice, providing a warm and comforting meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy. Whether you choose Nom Wah or the option here, you can't go wrong with their delicious congee.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Budget-Friendly Eats
3. Ting Wong
Family-owned restaurant serving classic Hong Kong comfort food

Ting Wong is the perfect spot for a quiet, satisfying lunch, offering a range of delicious Asian dishes. One of the standout options is the shrimp congee, which is expertly prepared and incredibly flavorful. The restaurant has a comfortable and laid-back atmosphere, with sticky tables along the wall providing the perfect place to enjoy a meal.
During our visit, our seven-year-old particularly enjoyed the congee with seafood. This dish was a hit with the whole family, offering a rich and savory flavor that was both comforting and satisfying. The seafood added a nice touch, providing a range of textures and tastes that complemented the congee perfectly. Overall, Ting Wong is a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious and enjoyable lunch option.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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4. Ho Sai Gai Restaurant
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Philadelphia

The congee offered at this establishment is a must-try dish. Its hearty and well-seasoned quality makes it an excellent choice to start any meal. One notable feature of the congee is its flavorful taste, which is sure to satisfy any palate. The texture is also excellent, being neither too thin nor too thick. Additionally, the congee is served with a generous amount of toppings, providing a satisfying and filling meal.
The must-try congee is characterized by its hearty and well-seasoned quality, making it an excellent choice for any meal. During my visit, I tried the congee and found it to be very flavorful, with a texture that was just right. The dish also came with a generous amount of toppings, adding to its overall appeal and satisfaction. The hearty and flavorful congee is a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying and delicious meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
5. Tai Lake
Large, scenic lake with recreational activities and nearby attractions

The congee offered at this establishment is a must-try due to its rich flavor and perfect consistency. It is highly recommended for anyone looking to try a delicious and comforting dish.
This congee is especially enjoyable on a cold day, as it provides a warmth that is both comforting and flavorful. Its excellence makes it a standout choice for those seeking a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
6. Grand Palace Restaurant
Authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy and welcoming environment

The seafood selection at this establishment is varied and traditional, with a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a platter, soup, noodle dish, or congee, there is something for everyone. This makes it an ideal choice for seafood lovers who enjoy having many options to select from.
In addition to the variety, the seafood is also prepared quickly, ensuring that customers do not have to wait long to enjoy their meal. This is perfect for those who are short on time or are looking for a quick bite to eat. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely meal or something to grab on the go, this establishment's seafood options can accommodate your needs.
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7. Heung Fa Chun Sweet House
Authentic Hong Kong-style dessert house in Philadelphia

The congee offered at this establishment is truly delicious and satisfying. Its excellent flavor and hearty composition make it a must-try for anyone visiting. The congee stands out as one of the best options in the city, with its smooth and savory taste, as well as its ideal consistency.
This congee is a top-notch dish that should not be missed. Its smooth texture and savory taste are perfectly balanced, making it a standout among other congee options in the city. The consistency is just right, contributing to an overall satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
8. Lau Kee Restaurant
A taste of Hong Kong in the heart of Philadelphia since 1987

The soup dumplings, three meats on rice, noodle soup, and congee at this Chinatown restaurant were all prepared skillfully. Prices are comparable to other establishments, with only a slight difference of around 25 cents.
This is one of the more recently opened hanging meat restaurants and carryouts in Chinatown. Though it is a bit smaller than some of the other options, the quality of the meats is excellent. The meats are fresh, full of flavor, and not overly salty or fatty. The soup dumplings, three meats on rice, noodle soup, and congee were all delicious and on point in terms of preparation.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
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