THE PLACE: Just recently transformed from the Filipino restaurant Tradisyon to the bright and airy Uncle Ray’s, this little nook in Hell’s Kitchen is welcoming and comfortable. When I stopped by for an early lunch, I was the only diner and was greeted graciously by the enthusiastic waitress and the chef himself, Sergeant Kiang (“Uncle Ray”‘s son). This spot feels very appropriate for a solo lunch and will certainly be a new favorite for anybody who lives in Hell’s Kitchen.
THE MENU: Chicken rice is obviously the specialty here – especially the poached Hainanese version that is ubiquitous at hawker centers in Singapore. But Uncle Ray’s also offers fried and roasted versions (similar concept to the nearby Three Roosters) along with some other unique Singaporean dishes, like Coffee Pork Ribs and Seafood Porridge, that almost tempted me away from the main event.
THE DISH: The chicken preparations are available on their own or as a combination. Since I was trying to eat light, I went for just the Duo Chicken Rice with poached and roasted and saved the fried option for another time. This portion was more than enough for lunch. In addition to the moist and gingery chicken slices, I was served a rich and complex chicken broth, alongside a mound of rice, and a trio of dipping sauces (dark soy sauce, ginger sauce, and a chili number). I’ve had Hainanese chicken before but never quite understood the appeal – until now. The meat was amazingly tender and the flavor was hearty and comforting. It was by far the best Hainanese chicken I’ve ever tried and I can’t wait to go back. Price: $20
| UNCLE RAY’S |
| 790 Ninth Avenue (between West 52nd and West 53rd Street), Hell’s Kitchen (646) 866-6900 |
| unclerayschickenrice.com |
