Gai Kitchen, nestled in the heart of Chinatown at the popular Mott Street Eatery food court, is a culinary gem that specializes in Thai-style chicken and rice. The name “Gai Kitchen” is derived from the word “chicken” in both Thai and Chinese, representing a versatile ingredient that takes center stage in their dishes.

Founded in September 2022 during the midst of the pandemic, owner Justin found inspiration from a friend to create menu items specifically geared towards Chinatown locals and patrons of Mott Street Eatery, resulting in dishes that remain true to authentic flavors while using innovative cooking techniques.

Despite the challenges of slow business during the pandemic and difficulty finding dedicated workers, Justin and his family have remained steadfast in their commitment to providing exceptional food to both Chinatown locals and visitors alike.

Their menu is small but mighty and packs a flavorful punch. One of their standout dishes is the Hainanese chicken, which is marinated and then steamed, offering a unique twist on the traditional preparation method.

Try their best-selling Hainanese steamed chicken or Thai-style roasted chicken over ginger garlic rice with a side of the son-in-law egg and a Thai iced tea.  A son-in-law egg is a deep-fried soft-boiled egg – a textural delight of just the right amount of runny and gooey inside with a chewy and crispy exterior. We tried these dishes and loved the flavor of both the steamed and roasted chicken!  

In the future, Gai Kitchen hopes to expand its menu to include fried chicken and noodle dishes and branch out to Flushing and Brooklyn. With its mouth-watering dishes, Gai Kitchen is a must-visit destination for chicken enthusiasts looking for a memorable experience.

📍 Gai Kitchen
51 Mott Street, New York, NY 10013