Eim Khao Mun Kai Elmhurst: Authentic Thai Chicken Delights in Elmhurst

I first came here back in 2015 with two friends, and we were all blown away by how delicious and pure the food tasted and how cheap the price was (I think we paid less than $10 before tax and tip then!!). This was now my third visit with my husband and toddler, and the food was just as delicious as the very first time. This time, we got the plate for two people which came with two portions of delicious and fragrant chicken rice, a generous portion of both white and dark chicken meat with some gizzard and liver, some slices of cucumber and cilantro, and endless amounts of the addictive ginger scallion sauce, hot sauce, and a soybean paste (I think?). We both agreed that we could probably drink the ginger scallion sauce because it was just lip-smacking good and well seasoned. We did not refrain from putting massive doses of the sauce on our chicken. We also enjoyed the hot sauce that went well with the ginger scallion sauce and the chicken. The chicken is just perfect; there’s no other place I’ve had khao mun gai in NYC that compares to how perfect this spot is - super juicy and moist, tight skin, delicious and addictive condiments (plus low price!!). While the prices have gone up, it’s 100% understandable given inflation and the fact ingredients just cost more. Plus, if you had the same quality and quantity meal in Manhattan, it would easily cost at least 50% more. The service is quick and friendly. There is very limited seating and the space is small, so I would not go here if I had more than two or three people with me. The tables are small and the seats are only stools, but honestly, I think it makes the place more charming and like what it would be like if you were in Thailand or somewhere somewhere else in Southeast Asia. No restroom unfortunately, either, so make it quick and snappy! Even though we don’t live in the area, we still make it out here because the food is that good. Elmhurst overall is quite underrated for food, as there are so many delicious and eclectic options nearby, but this is definitely one of the biggest highlights.

BEST hainanese chicken I have had in NYC! Those who say it’s basic and you can get it anywhere in Thailand - then go to Thailand and save this place for those of us stuck in NYC! There’s no bathroom and it’s a small restaurant so just keep that in mind! It’s good for solo and two people for a quick lunch.

Simple, satisfying meal. The menu focuses on one main food item - Thai style Hainanese chicken rice(khao man gai), offered in three portion sizes, along with a nice selection of drinks. I went with the Thai green tea, which paired well with the meal. They offer a variety of sauces so you can mix to your own preference (we combined the soybean paste with the ginger-scallion sauce). The broth that comes with the dish complements it perfectly.

A hidden gem of Elmhurst, only popped in because a certain place had a 45min wait. One of the better Hiananese Chicken Rice places I've been, and if taking into account price to taste/quality ratio I'd have to give this place 5 stars. Recommend getting the combo for the chicken meat and the liver, so good. The ginger scallion sauce pulls the dish together. There isn't much else on offer here, just the small menu that they focus on. Which is how it should be. We also got extra chicken, photo shows the portion for 3 with $7 of extra chicken.

The food is fresh, clean, and delicious! I’m usually nervous about finding hair or dirt in meals, but here everything well-prepared. The flavors are clean, the combos are satisfying, and the prices are really fair !

Probably one of the best Hainan chicken and chicken rice I’ve had in the U.S. The ginger scallion sauce is a must, and if you can handle some heat, definitely try the chili sauce—especially when mixed with raw garlic! The place is small and cramped, so don’t expect to fit comfortably if you’re in a group larger than three.

This place literally has one thing on the menu: Hainanese Chicken Rice, and they do it amazingly. You could smell how fragrant the food is the moment you walk in. The chicken is tender, the liver cooked to perfection (so much so that we ordered an extra serve), and the ginger scallion sauce addictive. It's a very small place with only 3 tables but service is still attentive and efficient.

Amazing hole in the wall restaurant / grab and go spot. They even sell sticky rice to go. Wide range of foods I’d never seen at very reasonable prices. No seating, cash or zelle payment.