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New York

Empire Szechuan offers a variety of Szechuan dishes with a focus on spicy flavors. While many patrons appreciate the authentic taste and quick service, some have noted inconsistencies in food quality and service. The restaurant's casual atmosphere and late-night hours make it a convenient choice for those seeking a quick meal in the area.

Empire Szechuan: Flavorful Asian Cuisine in Manhattan's Heartland 

Nestled at 193 Columbus Avenue in the vibrant neighborhood of Manhattan, New York, Empire Szechuan offers a lively and informal dining experience perfect for lovers of authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine. This well-loved spot is known for its broad menu that caters to a variety of tastes, including vegetarian and vegan options, making it a popular destination for foodies and health-conscious diners alike.

Empire Szechuan prides itself on serving dishes cooked to perfection featuring fresh ingredients and carefully balanced flavors. From the tender and well-seasoned beef to the clear yet flavorful soups, each plate reflects a dedication to traditional Asian culinary techniques. Highlights include their scallion pancakes paired with a perfectly balanced dipping sauce, vegetable tempura with a deliciously savory tempura sauce, and spicy tofu and mushroom mixes that satisfy those craving a bit of heat.

Note that while many customers rave about the quality and taste, some reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in food texture and seasoning, reflecting the mixed sentiment of the community.

The restaurant offers dine-in seating with a casual, welcoming vibe complemented by outdoor seating—a rare find in bustling Manhattan. It's perfect for groups, families, and solo diners looking to savor quality Asian flavors in a relaxed setting. The service team has been praised for quick and attentive service during busy hours, though some patrons have noticed variability, especially during peak times.

Empire Szechuan also serves up a selection of beer and wine, ideal for pairing with their diverse menu. Whether you're grabbing takeout or enjoying a leisurely dinner, expect a well-rounded experience with options to suit your mood and dietary preferences.

Empire Szechuan enjoys a mixed reputation within the local community. Enthusiasts applaud the freshness, authentic flavors, and accommodating menu selections, while critics highlight occasional service lapses and inconsistency in dish quality. This honest diversity in feedback gives a realistic view of what to expect and helps new visitors make informed choices.

 including many vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.

 with both indoor and outdoor seating available.

What are the restaurant's operating hours?

 Empire Szechuan operates daily from 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM.

Does the restaurant offer delivery and takeout services?

 Yes, Empire Szechuan provides both delivery and takeout services.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?

 Yes, the restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes.

Does Empire Szechuan accept reservations?

 Yes, the restaurant has outdoor seating.

North America

United States

Empire Szechuan, located at 193 Columbus Ave in Manhattan, New York, is an informal dining spot that has become a staple for those craving authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Known for its extensive menu, this restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere where diners can enjoy a mix of traditional favorites and modern interpretations. With a history of serving the community, Empire Szechuan has garnered a reputation for its flavorful dishes and welcoming service.

The culinary offerings at Empire Szechuan are diverse and cater to a variety of tastes. Diners can savor dishes like the tender Szechuan pork with broccoli, or the flavorful General Tso's chicken, both of which have received mixed reviews but remain popular choices. The restaurant also features vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. With a focus on freshness and quality, each dish is prepared with care, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors.

Situated on Columbus Avenue, Empire Szechuan is conveniently located near several cultural landmarks, making it an ideal stop for those exploring Manhattan. Visitors can easily access the nearby Lincoln Center, a hub for performing arts, or take a stroll through Central Park, just a short distance away. The restaurant's location makes it perfect for a meal before or after attending a concert or show.

Empire Szechuan is open for lunch and dinner, with delivery available until 11:45 PM.

Yes, Empire Szechuan offers outdoor seating for guests.

Yes, takeout is available for all menu items.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Empire Szechuan invites you to experience its unique blend of flavors and welcoming atmosphere. Stop by for a delightful meal that promises to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

Informal spot offering a broad menu of Chinese & Japanese favorites for dine-in, takeout & delivery.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuM18yX0hnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9dNW2IpYwokRM4ru8HmhSZU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuM18yX0hnEAE

I forgot how good these guys are! Correction, how AMAZING these guys are, I give them 4 on serving cause they are a bit slow but the food is cooked to perfection, the soup is clear, yet flavorful, the beef is carefully seasoned and tender, everything is fresh, you will not want to go anywhere else after you ate here, delivery is open until 1145pm , best of the best, and that beef tomato pic was a fantastic lunch, highly recommend!!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNEcU9iN2VREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9dNW2IpYwokRM4ru8HmhSZU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNEcU9iN2VREAE

I am shocked at how low the ratings are here. I get that the restaurant looks very casual and feels a little bit like a hole in the wall, however, the food is service is great. They have a TON of veggies options.

Each food item was clearly made very fresh and came out as quickly as possible . It was also piping hot which I love.

Food: We got the scallion pancakes and they were really good. The sauce that it came with was perfect. The vegetable tempura was good, but if the veggies has been cut smaller it would have better. The tempura sauce was also really yummy. For entrees my husband got noddles and he loved them, said they were flavored exactly the way he would expect them to be. I got a tofu/mushroom mix and has asked them to make it spicy. It was on point and well flavored.

Service: Service was quick. We had water immediately and our drinks came out fast too. They checked in on us often as well and the restaurant was fairly crowded as it was late at night and one of the few spots open in the area.

Insta: @TheShahLALand

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURGeDZtSkhBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9dNW2IpYwokRM4ru8HmhSZU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURGeDZtSkhBEAE

Empire Szechuan was not good. The service was lacking. The waitress seemed as if she was in a rush and not friendly. The restaurant was crowded and when more people came the waitress told another person to move and that person didn’t even finish eating yet. I ordered hot and sour soup which did not taste like hot and sour soup. It was sour for sure but had a weird after taste. We also got the Szechuan pork with broccoli and general tso’s chicken which was salty and the flavor was not evenly distributed in both dishes. It came with a side of rice. I got fried rice which tasted like trash. Did not even taste like authentic fried rice. This is definitely not an actual Chinese restaurant geared for Chinese people. It’s worse than Chinese takeout. The price of the food was not worth it either. The last dish I got was a build the dish bowl. I added snow peas, fried tofu, Chinese broccoli, and eggplant. The sauce was disgusting on top. It was way too salty. $37+ for this? I could’ve gone to a buffet and eaten way better.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bm9DbTJnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9dNW2IpYwokRM4ru8HmhSZU/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2bm9DbTJnRRAB

I've been going here for years but now I'm going to stop. Recently they've raised prices and the quantity of filler (broccoli, vegetables, pineapple, etc.) in the entrees is getting out of control. In an order of beef and broccoli I had 8 huge stocks of broccoli and 3 very small pieces of beef. The pork buns were really good and now are completely unrecognizable. They were in pieces, torn open, they looked like someone had picked through them with their fingers. They were still very willing to box it up and sell it to me, and when I commented on the very different appearance, the response I was met with was "then don't order it. We can't be expected to check the quality of everything" The service has always been bad but the food was worth it. Not anymore.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR1MWNTckpnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ9dNW2IpYwokRM4ru8HmhSZU/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR1MWNTckpnEAE

The worse food possible.
Ordered General Tso's Chicken and was all excited to enjoy a good meal to my surprise I was sold garbage. The Chicken was barely existent. They coated the tiny piece of chicken with some white starch like rice then dipped it and fried it.
Besides being bone dry it was all filler, surprise meat.

I don't usually give bad reviews but how can the most common dish be so awful!!!!

Delicious Chinese Cuisine at Empire Szechuan, NYC

Empire Szechuan has been serving authentic Szechuan cuisine in New York City's Upper West Side for several years, becoming a local favorite for its spicy dishes and casual dining experience.

Empire Szechuan: A New York Culinary Legacy Since 1976.

Nestled at 193 Columbus Avenue in Manhattan, Empire Szechuan stands as a vibrant testament to authentic Chinese and Japanese cuisine in New York City. Since opening its doors in 1976, this establishment has become a beloved culinary destination known for its diverse menu that expertly caters to a wide range of palates, including vegetarian and vegan diners. Its longevity reflects a deep-rooted commitment to quality and community, making it a staple in the city's dynamic food scene.

Empire Szechuan’s journey began in 1976 with its inaugural location in New York City, swiftly earning a reputation for authentic flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Over the next decades, the restaurant expanded its reach, becoming a cherished spot especially for those seeking genuine Asian cuisine in the heart of Manhattan. However, the path was not without challenges. In 1985, the renowned Empire Szechuan Village location closed after three decades due to a substantial rent increase, marking a significant moment in the restaurant's history.

Despite such hurdles, Empire Szechuan demonstrated resilience, maintaining its presence at 193 Columbus Avenue where it continues to thrive as of 2025. Its menu has evolved to include a broad spectrum of Chinese and Japanese favorites, emphasizing freshness, quality, and inclusivity with abundant vegetarian and vegan options. This adaptability has allowed it to remain relevant and beloved by New Yorkers and visitors alike for nearly half a century.

Why empire szechuan remains a local favorite

The enduring popularity of Empire Szechuan can be attributed to its commitment to authentic taste and a menu that caters to diverse dietary preferences. Diners appreciate the carefully prepared dishes that blend traditional techniques with a modern sensibility, offering everything from hearty Szechuan specialties to delicate Japanese cuisine. Additionally, its convenient location in Manhattan makes it an accessible choice for locals and tourists craving genuine Asian flavors delivered with passion.

 Empire Szechuan opens its first location in New York City.

 Empire Szechuan Village closes after 30 years due to a significant rent increase.

 Empire Szechuan continues to operate successfully at 193 Columbus Avenue, New York, NY 10023.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Outdoor Seating

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Cocktails

Empire Szechuan is a culinary gem in the heart of New York City, offering authentic Sichuan cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a broad menu of Chinese and Japanese favorites for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.

Empire Szechuan

Good for Children

In the vibrant heart of New York City, just off the bustling thoroughfare of Columbus Avenue, lies the culinary gem known as Empire Szechuan. This restaurant beckons food enthusiasts with the promise of an authentic taste of Sichuan cuisine, where each dish is a journey through flavor and spice. The menu tantalizes the senses with options ranging from the fiery Dan Dan noodles to succulent Mapo tofu, offering a cultural experience reflective of New York's culinary scene.

Authentic Szechuan cuisine with a variety of noodle soups, specialty dishes, and more.

Shrimp Dumplings Noodle Soup

Chicken Teriyaki Noodle Soup

Pork Dumplings Noodle Soup

Roast Pork Noodle Soup

Sliced Chicken Noodle Soup

Mixed Veg Noodle Soup

Jumbo Shrimp Noodle Soup

Seafood Noodle Soup

Roast Pork & Shrimp Wonton Noodle Soup

Roast Pork & Chicken Dumplings Noodle Soup

Roast Pork & Shrimp Dumplings Noodle Soup

Seafood & Shrimp Wonton Noodle Soup

Seafood & Chicken Dumplings Noodle Soup

Seafood & Shrimp Dumplings Noodle Soup

Mix Veg with Bean Curd

Sauteed Broccoli

Sauteed Snow Peas

Waterchestnuts

Bean Curd with Mushrooms

Sauteed Zucchini

Sauteed String Beans

Bean Curd Szechuan Style with Meat

Moo Shu Veg

Moo Shu Chicken

Moo Shu Pork

Moo Shu Beef

Moo Shu Shrimp

Moo Shu House Special

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Chicken with Broccoli

Chicken with Snow Peas

Moo Goo Gai Pan

Chicken with String Beans

Chicken with Cashew Nuts

Chicken with Mushrooms

Chicken with Zucchini

Szechuan Chicken

Chicken and Eggplant in Garlic Sauce

Chicken with Black Bean Sauce

Chicken with Garlic Sauce

Rainbow Chicken

Chicken with Peanuts

Chicken with Mix Veg

Chicken with Oyster Sauce

Lemongrass Pork Chop

Seafood Deluxe

4 Seasons

Triple Crown

Dragon

Phoenix

Sesame Shrimp

Shrimp with Honey Walnuts

Orange Beef

Sesame Beef

General Tso's Chicken

Sesame Chicken

Orange Chicken

Chicken with Honey Walnuts

Shrimp & Scallop with Bro

Shrimp & Scallops with Garlic Sauce

Shrimp & Chicken with Cashew Nuts

Happy Family

Szechuan Shrimp & Chicken

Beef Peking Style

Volcano Beef

Jumbo Shrimp & Steak Kew

Scallop & Steak Kew

Empire Szechuan Menu

Empire Szechuan, located at 193 Columbus Ave in Manhattan, New York, serves an extensive menu of authentic Szechuan cuisine. This informal spot blends traditional Chinese and Japanese flavors, focusing on noodle soups and specialty dishes. The culinary philosophy emphasizes fresh ingredients and bold flavors, offering a delightful experience for both dine-in and takeout customers.

Shrimp Dumplings Noodle Soup: A comforting bowl featuring shrimp dumplings and a variety of noodles.

Chicken Teriyaki Noodle Soup: A flavorful mix of chicken teriyaki and egg noodles.

Pork Dumplings Noodle Soup: A hearty dish with pork dumplings and a rich broth.

Empire Szechuan offers a selection of beverages including beer and wine, perfect for pairing with your meal. Their mixology also features unique cocktails that complement the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine.

Savor authentic Szechuan flavors at Empire Szechuan on Columbus Ave in Manhattan. Experience spicy delights—visit today!

Delicious Chinese Cuisine at Empire Szechuan, NYC

Dining and Culinary Delights

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FAQs

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