Best of the Best: Chinese Takeout

While people rave about the dan dan noodles, appetizers like wontons and pork belly buns paired with hot pot entrees and favorites like kung pao style chicken make for an unbeatable meal at an affordable price. In case spicy food isn’t your thing, food items list a heat index to ensure you order at a comfortable level. If you’re in search of quality Chinese food, this is it.

Málà Project in the East Village is not your traditional Chinese dive—the restaurant itself has a gorgeous bohemian-urban layout and amazing food to boot. Embrace your inner Anthony Bourdain over seemingly-intimidating options like cow intestine, lung slices, and pig ear in chili oil paired with amazing spices. It's all freaking good. Swear.

Designed by a Cirque du Soleil set director, the eclectic noodle house Hunan Slurp literally fucking glows. Slurp showcases some edible perfection in their collection of rice noodles and mifen, but also stir-fried frog legs and pig trotter stew.

At 99 Favor Taste-LES, you and your date can turn a traditional date into a much more hands-on affair—that is, with your food. The stoves here are tabletop, the meat is raw, and cooking preferences are totally up to you. They offer 6 choices of hot pot broths, which serve as base for 31 different kinds of fresh vegetables and meat. Bonus: if it's your birthday, your meal is free — just make sure to bring a valid ID.