Philippe Chow is an upscale Chinese restaurant at 355 West 16th Street, New York, NY 10011, beneath Dream Downtown in Chelsea, beside the Meatpacking District. This downtown branch extends the Beijing-style, family-style dining concept that chef Philippe Chow launched on Manhattan’s Upper East Side in 2005. Travelers come for chicken satay, Peking duck, cocktails, and a dressed-up dinner near Chelsea Market and the High Line—not a quick neighborhood takeout meal.
What to Expect at Philippe Chow
The menu emphasizes polished, shareable Chinese cooking rather than individual entrée-and-side combinations. Chicken satay with peanut sauce is a signature opening order; crispy beef and Peking duck are other established Philippe favorites. Build dinner around contrasting textures: a crisp meat dish, vegetables, and rice or noodles. Duck makes the most sense as a centerpiece for a group, so ask your server about portions and preparation time before ordering starters.
The subterranean dining room favors dramatic lighting and a lounge-like atmosphere over daylight and street views. It suits birthdays, date nights, and group celebrations, especially when cocktails or wine are part of the evening. The official website also promotes a four-course Moët & Satay experience at selected locations; consult the downtown menu for availability. Vegetarian diners should ask about sauces and stocks, while anyone avoiding peanuts should flag the satay and discuss cross-contact before ordering.
- Chicken satay: Skewered chicken with the restaurant’s recognizable peanut sauce.
- Peking duck: A celebratory centerpiece best considered when ordering for the table.
- Crispy beef: A signature choice for diners who favor crunch and a rich sauce.
- Below-street dining room: A low-lit setting with a distinctly evening-oriented mood.
- Downtown location: Dinner within walking distance of Chelsea Market, the High Line, and the Whitney.
Philippe Chow at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Chelsea, beside the Meatpacking District; Dream Downtown |
| Operating Hours | Monday closed; Tuesday 5:30–9:30 p.m.; Wednesday–Thursday 5:30–10:30 p.m.; Friday–Saturday 5:30–11:30 p.m.; Sunday 5:30–10:30 p.m. |
| Admission / Price Range | $$$; upscale à la carte dining, with drinks and gratuity additional |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | 14 St–8 Av: A, C, E and L trains; paid garages around West 15th and West 16th streets |
| Official Website & Phone | Philippe Chow; +1 212-885-9400 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Reserve through the official website, selecting Downtown NYC rather than Fifth Ave NYC. Friday and Saturday prime dinner slots merit advance planning; a 5:30 p.m. reservation is practical before another evening engagement. Choose smart evening clothes for the setting, and review the downtown menus before committing to a group order. Confirm deposits, cancellation terms, and any special-menu requirements during booking. Allow room in your budget for drinks, tax, and gratuity.
The 14 St–8 Av subway complex is roughly a five-minute walk away; use the Eighth Avenue side and continue toward West 16th Street. Drivers should book a nearby garage rather than depend on curbside spaces. Because the restaurant is below street level, wheelchair users and families with strollers should arrange the step-free arrival route and ask about restroom access when reserving. Chelsea Market is about two minutes away, the High Line’s West 16th Street access about five minutes, and the Whitney Museum roughly 10–15 minutes south on foot. Visit these before dinner, checking their closing times separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Philippe Chow Downtown open?
Dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with closing times ranging from 9:30 to 11:30 p.m.; Monday is closed. Choose the first seating for an earlier meal, and reconfirm holiday hours before traveling.
How expensive is dinner, and should I reserve?
Expect a $$$, upscale dinner rather than budget Chinese dining. Advance reservations are advisable, especially for weekend evenings and groups; consult the official downtown menu for current dish prices.
How much time should I allow?
Budget 1.5 to 2 hours for shared starters, main dishes, and drinks. Allow longer for a celebration or a duck-centered meal, and tell your server immediately if you have a fixed departure time.
Is it suitable for children or visitors with mobility needs?
Shared dishes can work for families, though the low-lit, lounge-oriented atmosphere favors an evening restaurant experience. For mobility needs, arrange access to the below-street dining room directly with staff before arrival.
When planning your Portland travel guide or comparing verified restaurants and nightlife in Portland, pair this stop with standout local spots including Fort Gorges, Longfellow Hotel, The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in New York City, and The Blue Dog (2.7 km away).
