I've checked out a number of Hakka restaurants in the past, and was delighted with the food served…read moreup at Wong's. We almost didn't go: it was a second choice for a late lunch after our first choice was closed, and it turned out to be just right!
Wong's is a small, family-run, casual restaurant which specializes in Hakka cuisine. We were greeted and seated upon arrival by our friendly server. We quickly decided upon our choices: Chicken Pakoras; Chili Chicken Dry; Bombay Chicken and Chicken MaPo Tofu. Pakoras and Chili Chicken are, for me, go-to Hakka orders when trying out a restaurant for the first time.
Wong's passed the Pakora and Chili Chicken tests with flying colors! The Chicken Pakoras were substantial, crispy and flavorful. Perfectly spiced, they were accompanied by a delicious cilantro sauce. Our waitress recommended adding some of the chili sauce if we wanted some additional heat. My son enjoyed them with the chili; I personally felt that they were perfect with just the cilantro. Similarly, the Chili Chicken was among the best that we've ever had. The chicken was pleasantly crispy without the greasiness that often plagues chili chicken, and again, Wong's nailed the spicing. Certainly, some diners would want more heat and, aside from the chili sauce at the table, you can request various levels of spiciness. The Bombay Chicken was a first for me, and I was not disappointed. The chicken pieces were moist and very flavorful, with the pronounced smokiness that wok cooking can produce. The smoky, spicy taste was very satisfying, especially on a winter day. The Chicken Mapo Tofu was unlike any that I've ever had, and it was surprising but excellent. I'm accustomed to Sichuan style Mapo Tofu, and Wong's version was different: milder, and without the pleasantly numbing sichuan peppercorns. The result was a milder dish, but so well flavored that, while different, it retained the comfort of savory meat sauce and the soft tofu cubes. The texture was perfect, and it was complemented by the steamed rice, which came with our orders.
The service was friendly, kind and helpful, and Chef Wong himself came out to ask about our meal. Happily, we were able to give him sincere compliments! We look forward to returning to try some of the helpful suggestions offered by our server. She recommended the Hakka Noodles, Crispy Sesame Beef, and Spicy garlic shrimp. Debit or Cash only. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the food is worth going out of your way to get.