Few culinary experiences rival the simple joy of biting into a perfectly fried Taiwanese pork chop. Imagine a flavor explosion that’s the polar opposite of unpleasantness – that’s the kind of impact this dish has. For anyone, regardless of gender, it’s an undeniably awesome food experience. On the surface, it might seem like just another fried dish, but when you take a tender slab of pork, expertly tenderize it, coat it just right, fry it to golden perfection, and then drench it in that signature sweet soy sauce and garlic marinade, the result is simply irresistible. Crispy, savory, juicy, and intensely flavorful – these are just a few words to describe this incredible dish. And what could possibly make it even better?
When you can get all of this deliciousness for under $5. For those seeking budget-friendly yet incredibly satisfying meals, especially in a city like New York, finding a place that delivers both quality and affordability is a treasure. The quest for cheap eats that are guaranteed to induce a delightful food coma is a serious one, and the reward is discovering hidden gems that don’t break the bank. So, where can you find this amazing deal? Where can you get a fantastic fried pork chop over rice without emptying your wallet?
The answer is May Wah Fast Food. Here’s a bit of trivia: this beloved spot was once known as “Mei Wah” back in 2006. After a temporary closure, it reopened its doors as “Wah May,” a slight phonetic and spelling variation, but still instantly recognizable to its loyal customers. While the name might have shifted slightly, the essence of May Wah remains unchanged – serving up incredible, thinly pounded pork chops seasoned with salt, pepper, and a blend of spices that creates an intoxicating aroma, drawing you in from the street.
You can typically snag their standard pork chop over rice with a soy sauce egg for around $4.75, making it an unbelievably affordable and filling meal. It’s so affordable, in fact, that you might even experience a moment of delightful confusion at the counter, perhaps even receiving extra change back – a happy surprise that only adds to the charm of May Wah Fast Food.
Compared to other options, May Wah’s pork chop is a clear winner, especially when considering both quality and price. While it might not be the absolute crispiest pork chop out there, it strikes a perfect balance between a flavorful marinade and a satisfyingly textured crust. The frying technique is crucial to the overall experience, contributing to the texture without overpowering the pork itself. Whether you prefer a super crunchy exterior or a more balanced approach, May Wah’s pork chop is undeniably delicious. While some might find it a touch salty, the quality of the pork itself is consistently good. However, the true star of the show is the generous ladle of pork sauce that blankets the rice beneath the massive pork chop. This unassuming mixture, often appearing as a somewhat unappetizing brown and green blend, is actually culinary gold. It’s arguably one of the greatest contributions to global cuisine, a flavor sensation that rivals even fireworks or kites in terms of sheer delight. This incredible pork sauce, a simple yet masterful combination of ground pork, soy sauce, pickled vegetables, and napa cabbage, is a testament to the fact that sometimes the most extraordinary flavors come from the most humble ingredients. It’s so good, you’d happily pay for just the pork sauce and rice alone.
While May Wah Fast Food might not be everyone’s ultimate, top-tier pork chop destination, it’s an absolute steal for the price. It’s tasty, it’s cheap, and it’s consistently satisfying. For anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly Taiwanese meal in New York City, May Wah Fast Food is definitely the place to go.
***May Wah Fast Food
190 Hester St
