Hue House

“i was really excited for this place to open up as an hk american. we went to all the venues that were open: gulp, traveler, and 929. we first got gulp, which is takeout only, and there wasn't much room for us to wait around. we stood at the vending machines next to gulp as people squeezed past us. we waited an hour and a half to get bar seats at traveler, and were asked to leave to make room for other people around 20 minutes after we sat down and got drinks. we were told that maybe traveller "wasn't our vibe" (i assume it was because we got drinks, not food-- on account of having just eaten at gulp) and that we would be escorted up to 929 instead, where we had to agree to leave after an hour up there. the decor and the concept of the whole thing is really beautiful and made me nostalgic for my childhood as it showcased a lot of 90s hk pop culture in addition to the taiwanese history that they primarily advertise. when we got up to 929 the service was quite slow and the staff wasn't super accessible, which left a bit of confusion throughout the night as we were supposed to leave within an hour, as they said. we ended with the vending machine shooters, which were enjoyable, but the lower abv options were out. the food and drinks were quite good, and would recommend getting them if you stop by. the space itself, especially at 929, is pretty and makes you feel like you're being transported into in the mood for love. i just didn't feel the mission of taiwanese/ cantonese pride was well represented by the staff, as no one even commented on the decor or the theme of the place, and the system of the building was quite confusing and made us feel unwelcome as they set time limits on our stay and had expectations of what we specifically were supposed to order and buy and when. i don't think the service was anything egregious, and i will reiterate that the food and drinks were definitely good, but it felt like a slap in the face to be escorted out and still be requested to pay a 20% minimum tip.”

“The food was okay. I think because I went to Taiwan last year, this place pales in comparison. The braised platter was very small, tho it was pretty tasty. Very salty. The beef noodle soup was decent, not as rich as my mother's homemade beef noodle soup. I don't think I'll come back, but the service and ambiance were both nice.”

“honestly I am very impressed by this place. The drinks and the food were much better than I expected for a spot that just opened especially in the middle of Manhattan. Please get the pork over rice and the scallion pork pancake roll! You will not regret it and the vibes are absolutely immaculate.”