Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Stockholm, Sweden

Black Milk Gastro Bar

Gothenburg, Sweden

Brasserie Draken

Malmö, Sweden

Mutantur

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Kenya Safari

with Great Plains Conservation

in Maasai Mara

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

New York

Blue Willow 夜来湘 is a trendy Szechuan restaurant in New York City known for its intimate ambiance and exceptional service. Customers rave about the delectable dishes, such as Spicy Chicken Skewers, Steamed Vegetable Dumplings, and the Empress Wu and Bird's Nest cocktails. The menu offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, along with unique dishes like Dry Pot and Hunan Stir Fried Noodles. The upscale presentation of the dishes adds to the dining experience, with each dish carefully crafted and beautifully plated. Despite some mixed reviews on certain dishes, the overall consensus is that Blue Willow is a must-visit spot for delicious Szechuan cuisine in a stylish setting.

Discover Blue Willow 夜来湘: A Taste of Authentic Hunan and Szechuan Cuisine in Manhattan

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 40 West 56th Street, Blue Willow 夜来湘 invites food lovers to embark on a flavorful journey through refined Chinese cuisine. This vibrant restaurant specializes in authentic Hunan and Szechuan dishes that are renowned for their bold, nuanced flavors and signature spiciness. Whether you are craving dim sum, spicy fish stew, or the famous Mapo Tofu, Blue Willow offers a menu that balances tradition with modern flair, complemented by unique, handcrafted cocktails.

Ambiance and Experience at Blue Willow 夜来湘

Step inside and you’ll be greeted by vintage-inspired decor that creates a cozy yet elegant atmosphere perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a casual night out with friends. Guests often appreciate the attentive and friendly service, making each visit memorable. The spacious seating includes options for groups and outdoor dining, providing versatility whatever the occasion. Plus, the restaurant serves beer, wine, and inventive cocktails that perfectly complement the rich flavors of the cuisine.

 is celebrated for its generous portions and authentic flavors. Must-try dishes include the Chicken Truffle Mushroom Soup Dumplings, Eggplant Century Egg Claypot, and the fiery Spicy Fish Stew. Vegetarians will find thoughtfully crafted options on the menu to enjoy as well. Diners praise the Mapo Tofu as a standout dish that truly captures the essence of Szechuan spice and texture.

Monday to Friday 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM.

Accepted and recommended especially during peak hours.

Street parking is limited; paid garage and street parking nearby are available.

Vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes are available.

Available through popular platforms including Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash.

Frequently Asked Questions about Blue Willow 夜来湘

What are the operating hours of Blue Willow 夜来湘?

 Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM.

Does Blue Willow 夜来湘 accept reservations?

 Yes, reservations are accepted and recommended, especially during peak hours.

Is there parking available near the restaurant?

 Street parking is limited; it's advisable to use nearby parking garages.

Are there vegetarian options on the menu?

 Yes, the menu includes several vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.

Does the restaurant offer delivery or takeout services?

 Yes, delivery and takeout services are available through platforms like Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash.

The community around Blue Willow 夜来湘 speaks highly of its authentic flavors, especially praising dishes like Mapo Tofu and Peking Duck. The cozy ambiance and attentive service create a welcoming atmosphere that encourages diners to return. While many enjoy the spicy offerings that define the Hunan and Szechuan culinary traditions, some note that the heat level might be intense for those unaccustomed to fiery food. The restaurant’s quick service and generous portions make it a great choice for groups and families looking to explore classic Chinese cuisine with a modern twist.

North America

United States

Located at 40 W 56th St in the heart of Manhattan, Blue Willow 夜来湘 is a refined Chinese restaurant renowned for its exquisite dim sum, flavorful noodles, and fresh seafood. This vibrant eatery combines traditional Chinese culinary techniques with a modern twist, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking authentic Chinese food in New York City. With a cozy ambiance and attentive service, Blue Willow offers a delightful dining experience that caters to all tastes.

At Blue Willow, guests can indulge in a variety of dishes that showcase the best of Chinese cuisine. Highlights include:

Dim Sum: A selection of steamed dumplings and buns, perfect for sharing.

Noodles: Hand-pulled noodles served in savory broths or stir-fried.

Seafood: Freshly prepared dishes featuring seasonal catches.

Unique Cocktails: A creative drink menu that complements the food perfectly.

Situated in the bustling neighborhood of Midtown Manhattan, Blue Willow is conveniently located near several iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as:

Central Park: A short walk away, perfect for a post-meal stroll.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): A cultural hub showcasing contemporary art.

Times Square: The vibrant heart of New York City, just a few blocks away.

Refined Chinese restaurant serving dim sum, noodles, seafood & meat plates, plus unique cocktails.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmZzV6Q3NBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJDd3F0b1ZwokRhggZGhI4Ygg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmZzV6Q3NBRRAB

The decor is very nice. The food was great. The staff was incredibly friendly and respectful. The prices aren't bad at all. The only thing I didn't like was that at some point they were taking out their garbage in huge black bags. They don't have a back door so they have to take their garbage out through the front door, which means they have to pass through all the people that are eating. I'm guessing they can't keep it anywhere else until all the customers leave? Never saw that before. That was kind of weird, but overall a good place to eat.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfcXVtem53RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJDd3F0b1ZwokRhggZGhI4Ygg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfcXVtem53RRAB

Classic Chinese cuisine done well. Loved the eggplant century egg claypot as well as the spicy fish stew. Service is quick and the ambiance is slightly old school. Would come back to try more dishes.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzbXZHcE1BEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJDd3F0b1ZwokRhggZGhI4Ygg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzbXZHcE1BEAE

Visited Blue Willow with friends on a Monday night with a reservation. The place was busy, but I loved the vintage decor as soon as I walked in. We were all really hungry, so we ordered a lot for four people. The portions were generous, but honestly, the food was just okay-not anything that stood out. The dishes arrived incredibly fast, within about 5 minutes, which made me wonder if they weren't made fresh. The Mapo Tofu was the highlight of the meal, though. Service was a bit confusing-multiple servers came by at different times— but they were all friendly. The drink menu looked interesting, but the taste didn't quite live up to expectations. Overall, it was a decent experience-nothing extraordinary, but still a fun spot to hang out with friends.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfbDZPLXR3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJDd3F0b1ZwokRhggZGhI4Ygg/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfbDZPLXR3RRAB

Wow, wow, wow this place is such a gem! The food was delicious and among the best we’ve had in NYC. We enjoyed everything but the Chicken Truffle Mushroom Soup Dumpling are an absolute must have! The interior is also gorgeous.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmcEk2OGV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJDd3F0b1ZwokRhggZGhI4Ygg/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmcEk2OGV3EAE

I really wanted to like this place, but their weekday lunch was a disappointment.

Their weekday lunch special ranges from $14+ to $17+ and includes:
• a main dish of your choice
• hot & sour soup or spring roll
• white or brown rice
The price depends on your main dish.

I ordered the Mapo Tofu as my main dish, with a spring roll and white rice.

To our surprise, our main dishes were served within minutes’ of our ordering—even before our drinks or appetizers. They were clearly not freshly prepared. The rest of our food came later on, but the rice didn’t taste freshly cooked,  either.

They also seemed to want to clear tables quickly, even though there were plenty of other tables open. Before we’d even finished eating, they came to clear our table, stacking plates which still had food on them on top of each other at our table.

Perhaps, dinner would be better, but I would not recommend lunch based on the quality of the food and service we experienced.

Blue Willow 夜来湘: Authentic Chinese Dining in Manhattan, NY

Blue Willow 夜来湘: A modern culinary gem in New York City’s vibrant dining scene.

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, Blue Willow 夜来湘 stands out as a refined Chinese restaurant that artfully combines the rich flavors of Hunan and Szechuan cuisine with a fresh, contemporary twist. Since its inception, it has become a beloved destination for food lovers seeking authentic tastes in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

A journey through the years: milestones and innovations

The story of Blue Willow 夜来湘 began in 2020, when it opened its doors to New Yorkers craving genuine Chinese cuisine. Its remarkable attention to detail in both flavor and ambiance quickly earned it a dedicated following. Just a year later, the restaurant enhanced its customer experience by introducing a semi-private dining room, perfect for intimate gatherings and special celebrations.

Continuing to evolve with the times, 2022 saw the expansion of Blue Willow 夜来湘’s menu to embrace diverse dietary needs, adding vegan and gluten-free options that maintain the restaurant’s hallmark authenticity and bold flavors. This thoughtful adaptation has broadened its appeal, welcoming a wider range of guests eager to explore traditional Chinese tastes with modern dietary sensibilities.

. Patrons also delight in the cozy vintage decor and thoughtfully crafted unique cocktails, creating a dining experience that engages all the senses.

Why Blue Willow 夜来湘 remains a favorite

 Traditional Chinese recipes presented with contemporary flair.

 Cozy, vintage-inspired interiors that invite relaxation and connection.

 Thoughtful additions of vegan and gluten-free dishes ensure everyone can indulge.

 Semi-private dining spaces ideal for special occasions and groups.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Cocktails

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Tucked away on the vibrant streets of Manhattan, Blue Willow 夜来湘 presents an enchanting blend of culinary artistry and cultural richness. This charming restaurant invites guests into an atmosphere infused with warm hues and delicate decor reflective of its namesake. The gastronomic journey begins with an array of authentic flavors celebrating the rich heritage of Chinese cuisine, meticulously prepared with fresh ingredients and bold spices. Perfectly positioned on West 56th Street, Blue Willow is a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

Blue Willow 夜来湘

Blue Willow 夜来湘 提供正宗的湖南和四川菜肴，菜单丰富多样，满足不同口味的需求。

香辣排骨 Spicy Pork Spare Ribs

牛肉串串 Spicy Beef Skewers (3pc)

鸡肉串串 Spicy Chicken Skewers (3pc)

香辣鸡翅 Blue Willow Chicken Wings

椒盐鱿鱼 Salt & Pepper Calamari

椒盐大虾(小) Salt & Pepper Prawns

糖醋排骨 Sweet & Sour Spare Ribs

凉拌黄瓜 Cucumber Salad

凉拌皮蛋 Century Egg

凉拌豆干 Tofu Salad

醋泡木耳 Wood Ear Salad

蒜泥白肉 Pork Belly in Minced Garlic Sauce

夫妻肺片 Husband & Wife Style

麻辣牛筋 Numbing Beef Tendon

成都麻辣馄饨 Chengdu Spicy Wontons

小笼汤包 Pork Soup Dumplings (6 pcs)

烧卖 Shanghai Shumai (4 pcs)

葱油饼 Scallion Pancake

锅贴(蔬) Potstickers (vegetable) (6pcs)

锅贴(肉) Potstickers (pork) (6pcs)

水饺(肉) Steamed Dumplings (pork)

水饺(蔬) Steamed Dumplings (vegetable)

水晶虾饺 Crystal Shrimp Dumplings (4pcs)

黄金馒头 Lucky Golden Buns (4pcs)

芋头酥饼 Taro Cakes (4pcs)

春卷 Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls (2pcs)

红豆泡芙 Red Bean Puffs

黑松露雞肉 小籠包 Chicken Truffle Mushroom Soup Dumpling (6pcs)

老姜炒土鸡 Ginger Chicken (Bone-In)

火爆田鸡 Angry Frog

罗妈妈酸汤肥牛 Miss Lou’s Famous Beef Stew

香辣诱惑肥肠 Spicy Pig Temptations

毛血旺 Mao Xue Wang

毛氏红烧肉 Chairman Mao’s Braised Pork

君山烤鱼 Mountain Baked Fish

小炒猪蹄 Chilli Boneless Pig Trotters

擂辣椒皮蛋 Century Egg Clay Pot

剁辣椒蒸鱼 Xiang River Fish

夜来湘豆瓣鱼 Blue Willow Spicy Bean Fish

麻麻椒鱼 Ma Ma Peppercorn Fish

蟹黄粉丝煲 Yellow Vermicelli

酸豆角肉末粉皮 Sour String Beans & Minced Pork w/ Sweet Potato Noodles

酸豆角肉末 Sour String Beans & Minced Pork

农家水蒸蛋 Steamed Egg

泡椒麻麻鸡丁 Pickled Pepper Chicken

孜然羊肉 Real-Deal Cumin Lamb

香辣鱿鱼 Squid and Chives

白饭 White Rice

黄饭 Brown Rice

海鲜炒饭 Seafood Fried Rice

湘西炒饭 Xiang Xi Fried Rice

鸡肉炒饭 Chicken Fried Rice

虾炒饭 Shrimp Fried Rice

牛肉炒饭 Beef Fried Rice

猪肉炒饭 Pork Fried Rice

蔬菜炒饭 Vegetable Fried Rice

成都肉末担担面 Chengdu Dan Dan Noodles

芝麻凉面 Chilled Sesame Noodles

湖南牛肉卤粉 Beef Brine Rice Noodles

外婆肉末蛋粉 Grandma’s Rice Noodles

酸豆角米粉 Sour String Bean Rice Noodles

Blue Willow 夜来湘 菜单

Experience authentic Chinese cuisine at Blue Willow 夜来湘 in the heart of Manhattan! Savor mouthwatering dishes and vibrant flavors—book your table now!

Blue Willow 夜来湘: Authentic Chinese Dining in Manhattan, NY

Dining & Culinary Delights

Location & Nearby Attractions