Best of 24 fried rice in Upper West Side NYC
Tucked away in the vibrant Upper West Side of NYC, fried rice takes on a life of its own. This classic dish, with its origins in Chinese cuisine, has been adapted and perfected in the bustling kitchens of NYC. From traditional renditions to innovative fusion creations, fried rice in Upper West Side NYC offers a unique and diverse dining experience. Indulge in the savory flavors and aromatic spices that define this beloved staple in one of the world's greatest culinary cities.
- 1. Han Dynasty Upper West Side
- 2. Simply Noodles
- 3. WAU
- 4. Shun Lee West
- 5. New Kam Lai
- 6. Senn Thai Comfort Food in Upper West Side
- 7. New Kam Lai
- 8. Thai 72
- 9. New Kam Lai Chinese Restaurant
- 10. Wok City
- 11. New Asia
- 12. Ozen Sushi Asian Fusion
- 13. West Side Wok & Konata Sushi Bar
- 14. Benny's Chao King in Upper West Side
- 15. Atlas Kitchen
- 16. Mimi Cheng's Dumplings
- 17. The Cottage in Upper West Side
- 18. King Food Chen
- 19. La Dinastia
- 20. Raenu in Upper West Side
- 21. New Zhong Hua
- 22. Tri Dim Shanghai West Restaurant and Bar
- 23. OLLIE’S NOODLE SHOP & GRILLE
- 24. Empire Garden
1. Han Dynasty Upper West Side
Authentic Szechuan cuisine, cozy ambiance, and friendly service

The fried rice dish was acceptable, although it did not stand out as exceptional. The green beans were also just passable, meeting the minimum standard but lacking in any memorable flavors or textures. Overall, the dishes were not impressive and failed to leave a positive impression.
It is with regret that the meal did not meet expectations. The green beans and fried rice were adequate, but their lack of distinction made for a disappointing dining experience. Due to the unremarkable food, there are no plans to return in the near future.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
2. Simply Noodles
Uses high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes from various Asian countries

Simply Noodles offers a delicious fried rice that stands out for its great flavor and avoids being too greasy. The portion size of the fried rice is generous, and it is cooked to have a satisfying smoky taste.
The must-try fried rice at Simply Noodles boasts impressive flavor while managing to avoid excessive greasiness. Its portion size is ample, and the dish features a delightful smoky flavor that adds depth to the dish's taste.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
3. WAU
Authentic Thai food, cozy ambiance, and friendly service.

WAU is a popular restaurant known for its delicious Southeast Asian cuisine, offering an array of tantalizing dishes that showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of the region. Among the standout dishes are the pineapple fish curry, garb lai, wonton soup, and butter garlic fried rice, all of which are prepared with care and attention to detail.
One of the signature dishes at WAU is the Indonesian Nasi Goreng, a flavorful and spicy fried rice that is a staple of Indonesian cuisine. This dish is made with kicap manis, a type of sweet soy sauce, as well as shallots, garlic, ground shrimp paste, tamarind, and chili. The result is a complex and delicious flavor profile that is both savory and slightly sweet, with a spicy kick that is sure to please. Whether you're a fan of Southeast Asian cuisine or just looking to try something new, WAU's Indonesian Nasi Goreng is a must-try dish.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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4. Shun Lee West
Family-friendly atmosphere, attentive service, and a wide range of Chinese dishes

Paragraph 1: The fried rice was a dish that presented a mix of vegetables and meat, contributing to its overall taste. Its flavorful quality made it a standout, making it a recommended dish to try.
Paragraph 2: Despite the presence of vegetables and meat, the fried rice I tried came off as lacking in taste and seasoning. There was a noticeable absence of flavor that could have improved its overall quality.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Seasonal Times
5. New Kam Lai
Family-owned for over 30 years, famous for Cantonese cuisine

Several popular dishes are available at this establishment, including fried chicken, green bananas, string beans with garlic sauce, brown rice, spare rib tips with BBQ and hot sauce, and crispy chicken wings. Another seafood option is the Shrimp and Broccoli, which was enjoyed one night, while the Szechuan Shrimp and Chinese vegetables were the choice for the following night. The prices are reasonable, with a single dish costing only $6 and providing enough food for two meals.
The variety of dishes offered ensures that there is something for everyone. The Shrimp and Broccoli is a delicious and healthy option, while the Szechuan Shrimp and Chinese vegetables pack a spicy punch. The prices are affordable, with each dish offering enough for two meals. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy great food without breaking the bank.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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6. Senn Thai Comfort Food in Upper West Side
Small, cozy restaurant with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and a focus on high-quality, authentic Thai cuisine.

The fried rice served was flavorful, making it a satisfying meal. Its portion size was also appropriate, making it a filling and enjoyable dish. However, some differing opinions exist, as others have found the fried rice to be merely average, not living up to the quality found at other Thai restaurants they've visited.
Despite the positive experience of enjoying a tasty fried rice, there are varying perspectives. While the flavor was appreciated, some have experienced better fried rice at different Thai establishments. Consequently, this fried rice did not leave as strong an impression as it has at other Thai dining locations.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
7. New Kam Lai
Cash-only, long-standing family-run business, popular late-night spot

The pork fried rice was a delightful dish. It was well-cooked and skillfully seasoned, providing a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience. The rice was perfectly fried, with a slight crispiness that added texture and interest to each bite. The pork was tender and flavorful, complementing the rice nicely.
On the other hand, the chicken fried "bomb" was a disappointment. The chicken was mostly breading, with very little actual meat inside. This was frustrating, as it felt like a waste of money to pay for a dish that was mostly just empty breading. The lack of substantial chicken meat made the dish feel unfulfilling and unsatisfying.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
8. Thai 72
Small, cozy restaurant with a friendly and attentive staff

The pineapple fried rice was a standout dish with its delightful combination of flavors. The dish had a perfect balance, making each bite a satisfying and enjoyable experience. The ingredients were well-cooked and the pineapple added a touch of sweetness that complemented the savory elements.
On the other hand, the spicy rice was a disappointment. The bitter taste was overwhelming and lacked the depth of flavor that was expected. The spiciness was not well-integrated, and the dish as a whole fell short of the mark. While the pineapple fried rice was a success, the spicy rice failed to deliver on its promises.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
9. New Kam Lai Chinese Restaurant

TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Wok City
Authentic Asian wok-cooked dishes, located in the heart of New York City

The pork fried rice was served and appeared to have been reheated before being served. Despite this, the dish was still enjoyable and provides good value for its cost.
Assessing the quality of the pork fried rice, it seemed to lack the freshness expected of a hot, freshly cooked meal. However, considering its price, it was a satisfactory dish overall.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
- Dinner
11. New Asia
Cash only, no reservations, popular among locals and students

The fried rice was adequate, if unremarkable. Its flavor was lacking, and it had a slightly greasy texture. I ordered the chicken fried rice, which turned out to be quite good. The portion was generous, and it was served hot.
Despite being just decent, the fried rice could have used more flavor and less grease. On the other hand, the chicken fried rice stood out with its generous portion size and hot temperature. While both dishes had their own shortcomings and strengths, they each offered a satisfactory dining experience.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Mid-Range
12. Ozen Sushi Asian Fusion
Cozy and intimate atmosphere, with a friendly and attentive staff.

The fried rice dish contained a mix of vegetables and protein, providing a satisfying and nutritious meal. The flavors were well-balanced, making it a enjoyable and tasty dish. The option to order again highlights the overall positive experience.
On the other hand, the fried rice was considered average and not particularly memorable. Although the portion size was adequate, the dish did not stand out as special or exceptional. Overall, while still edible, it did not leave a strong impression.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
13. West Side Wok & Konata Sushi Bar

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Social Gatherings
14. Benny's Chao King in Upper West Side
Family-owned for over 20 years, using traditional wok techniques

Benny's Chao King provides a unique dining experience by offering a variety of dishes that feature the five fundamental flavors: spicy, sweet, bitter, sour, and salty. The restaurant's menu is diverse, showcasing Japanese, Pan-Asian, and Chinese cuisine, as well as fish and fast food options. Among the standout dishes is the succulent and crispy half chicken, which comes with delicious rice.
In addition to its delicious food, Benny's Chao King also boasts a fast and reliable delivery service, enhancing the dining experience. Whether you choose to dine in or enjoy the food from the comfort of your own home, the combination of exquisite flavors and efficient service makes Benny's Chao King an excellent choice for your next meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
15. Atlas Kitchen
Offers a variety of Asian-inspired dishes, cozy and friendly atmosphere

Atlas Kitchen serves a variety of Chinese dishes, some of which stand out. Mapo tofu, okra, a beef dish, hot and sour soup, egg custard soup with seaweed, walnut prawns, and yang chow fried rice are all delicious options. However, there are some hits and misses on the menu. Despite this, the food is generally enjoyable and satisfying.
One standout dish at Atlas Kitchen is their yang chow fried rice. The flavors and textures all come together to create a truly enjoyable experience. While there are some dishes that may not meet expectations, the overall quality of the food is high. The menu offers a range of options, providing something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for soup, seafood, or a hearty meat dish, Atlas Kitchen has got you covered.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
16. Mimi Cheng's Dumplings
homemade dumplings with quality ingredients, cozy and casual atmosphere

The individual in question had a disappointing experience with a food purchase. They had paid for rice, but it was not received. This left them without one of the key components they expected in their meal.
Additionally, the egg fried rice they did receive was lacking in flavor. The taste was not enjoyable, which added to the overall dissatisfaction with the purchase. A total of two issues were encountered: the missing rice and the disappointing taste of the egg fried rice.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
17. The Cottage in Upper West Side
Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, extensive brunch menu

Both Marysue and Heidi had positive experiences at this establishment, with Marysue praising the excellent food and Heidi complimenting the affordability of the meals. Specifically, Marysue enjoyed the Young Chow Fried Rice, while Heidi also ordered the same dish and likely found it to be delicious as well.
The service at this place is commendable, with both meals arriving in a timely manner. Marysue noted the speedy delivery, indicating that the food may have been delivered quickly after being prepared. This, along with the delicious and fairly-priced food, makes this a great dining option for those looking for a tasty and convenient meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
18. King Food Chen
Uses high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes passed down through generations

King Food Chen offers a range of Chinese-American dishes, including chicken fried rice and egg rolls, with a 3.6 rating based on 147 customer reviews. However, some customers have expressed disappointment with the pork fried rice, stating that it lacked flavor. The egg rolls were described as average by some reviewers, but others found them to be greasy. The chicken fried rice received mixed reviews, with some praising its flavor and others finding it unremarkable.
The restaurant's atmosphere and service received more positive feedback overall. Customers appreciated the cleanliness of the establishment and the attentiveness of the staff. Some noted that the portions were generous, but others felt that the prices were a bit high for the quality of the food. While there were some positive comments regarding the taste of the dishes, the overall consensus seemed to be that King Food Chen's offerings were unremarkable and forgettable.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Gluten-Free
19. La Dinastia
Family-owned restaurant offering a wide variety of traditional Chinese dishes for over 30 years

The beef and broccoli dish, combined with pork fried rice, proved to be a delightful meal. Its delicious taste is certainly worth recommending.
In addition to the main dish, the house fried rice was surprisingly tasty. Its unexpected flavor profile contributed significantly to the overall enjoyment of the meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
20. Raenu in Upper West Side
Spacious seating, prompt service, and authentic Thai decor

Thai Fried Rice Lunch Special is a highly recommended dish for anyone looking for flavorful and perfectly cooked food. This Thai fried rice stands out as a special dish, with its unique taste and perfect consistency.
If you're looking for an amazing food experience, Thai fried rice is a top choice. It's a lunch special that combines the perfect blend of Thai flavors and cooked rice, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. Highly recommended for anyone seeking to try something new and exciting.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
21. New Zhong Hua
Family-owned for over 20 years, authentic Chinese cuisine, generous portions

The fried rice served at this establishment is truly exceptional. Its delectable flavor and excellent mix of vegetables and meat make it a standout option in the local area. This dish is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and satisfying meal.
The fried rice contains a generous helping of vegetables and meat, all perfectly cooked and well-incorporated into the dish. The combination of flavors and textures is truly delightful, making this fried rice a dish that is sure to impress. Those who try it are sure to find themselves craving it again in the future.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
22. Tri Dim Shanghai West Restaurant and Bar
Authentic Shanghai cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and efficient service

The fried rice offered by this establishment is truly exceptional. It is cooked to perfection, with each grain possessing a distinct yet harmonious flavor. This results in a taste experience that is sure to satisfy any fried rice connoisseur.
One standout dish is the Yang Chow Fried Rice, which boasts a delightful blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you're a fried rice aficionado or simply looking to try something new, this dish is not to be missed. Its mouthwatering taste and impeccable preparation make it a must-try for any visitor.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
23. OLLIE’S NOODLE SHOP & GRILLE
Family-friendly atmosphere, offers catering and delivery services

The fried rice in question received mixed reviews. On one hand, some considered it delightful with an excellent combination of vegetables and meat, making it a highly recommended dish. On the other hand, there were those who found it merely passable, indicating a lack of seasoning and a dry texture.
Clearly, there is a divergence of opinion on the fried rice. Some diners appreciated its taste and variety of ingredients, while others were not as impressed, citing a need for more flavor and moisture. Nonetheless, it is evident that the dish did not meet everyone's expectations.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
24. Empire Garden
Offers a spacious dining area and private rooms for large parties, known for their dim sum selection.

The individual suffered from food poisoning after ordering food from a specific place through UberEats. The delivery was prompt, but the fried rice and lo mein were flavorless and dry, prompting the individual to discard them after just a few bites.
The fried rice from this place has a rating of 4.6 and over 1230 ratings, with 25 reviews. Unfortunately, the individual's experience does not align with the generally positive reviews.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner