You’re driving down Telegraph Road, stuck in that typical Metro Detroit traffic, and you see it. It’s not flashy. It doesn't have the neon glitz of a downtown bistro. But New Hong Kong in Taylor is one of those places that people just... know about. It’s a staple.
Honestly, if you grew up in Downriver, you’ve probably had their almond chicken at a graduation party or a rainy Tuesday night. It’s basically a rite of passage.
What’s the Big Deal with New Hong Kong?
A lot of people get confused when they search for "New Hong Kong Taylor." Are they looking for a bespoke suit in Tsim Sha Tsui? Or a massive plate of General Tso’s in Michigan? While Hong Kong is world-famous for its master tailors—like the legendary Sam’s Tailor or the artisans at L&K—the "New Hong Kong" everyone in Taylor, Michigan cares about is a restaurant.
It's a landmark.
Located at 8695 Telegraph Rd, this spot has survived decades of changing food trends. While other places try to go "fusion" or "modern," New Hong Kong sticks to what works: giant portions and that specific style of Chinese-American comfort food that feels like a warm hug.
The Almond Boneless Chicken Obsession
You can't talk about this place without mentioning the ABC (Almond Boneless Chicken). In Michigan, this dish is a cultural icon. It’s not just "chicken with nuts." It’s a deep-fried, breaded chicken breast sliced up and smothered in a thick, savory yellow gravy.
🔗 Read more: Pink White Nail Studio Secrets and Why Your Manicure Isn't Lasting
Most places mess up the gravy. It’s either too salty or has the consistency of water. New Hong Kong? They’ve nailed the texture. It’s silky. It’s rich. It’s the kind of stuff you want to dip your egg roll in when nobody is looking.
The chicken stays surprisingly crispy even under the weight of all that sauce. That’s the mark of a kitchen that knows its timing.
Not Just Your Average Takeout
Kinda surprisingly for a local joint, they’ve become a bit of a hero for the gluten-free crowd.
Seriously.
Finding safe Chinese food when you have Celiac or a gluten sensitivity is usually a nightmare. Everything is soy sauce and wheat-based breading. But the owners at New Hong Kong have been praised by locals for their knowledge of cornstarch-based coatings. They actually get it. They use cornstarch for a lot of their frying, which gives the chicken a lighter, shatter-crisp crunch that—honestly—might even be better than the standard wheat version.
💡 You might also like: Hairstyles for women over 50 with round faces: What your stylist isn't telling you
The Vibe (and the Reality)
Let’s be real: this isn't five-star fine dining. It’s a takeout-heavy operation. For a long time, the dining room has been closed or restricted, pivoting hard into the "order and go" model that dominated the post-pandemic era.
When you walk in, you’re greeted by a wall of live plants and fish tanks. It’s classic. It’s nostalgic. It feels like the 90s in the best way possible.
The service is fast, but it’s busy. Especially on Friday nights. If you show up at 6:00 PM without calling ahead, expect to hang out with the fish for a bit while you wait for your brown paper bag of goodness.
What Most People Get Wrong
People often complain that "it’s just basic Chinese food."
Well, yeah. That’s the point.
📖 Related: How to Sign Someone Up for Scientology: What Actually Happens and What You Need to Know
It isn't trying to be a Michelin-starred Sichuan peppercorn experience. It’s consistent. You know exactly what that Pineapple Beef or Orange Chicken is going to taste like every single time. In a world where restaurants change owners and recipes every six months, that level of reliability is rare.
Why It Still Matters in 2026
With food costs skyrocketing, finding a place that still gives you a "combination platter" that can feed a small family for under twenty bucks is a win. The value proposition here is huge.
You get the main dish, a mountain of fried rice, and an egg roll. It’s heavy. It’s filling. It’s exactly what you want when you're too tired to cook.
How to Get the Best Experience
If you're planning a visit to this Taylor institution, don't just wing it. Follow these steps:
- Call Ahead: Use their direct line (313-292-3050). Their website is fine for browsing, but a phone call ensures they heard your specific requests, especially regarding allergies.
- Ask About the Gravy: If you’re getting the almond chicken to go and you live more than 15 minutes away, ask for the gravy on the side. It keeps the breading from getting soggy during the drive.
- Check the Hours: They aren't a 24/7 operation. They have specific mid-day breaks and early-week closures sometimes, so verify before you make the trek down Telegraph.
- The Wonton Soup Trick: Their "old-style" wonton soup is a sleeper hit. It’s packed with actual vegetables—bok choy, carrots, pea pods—not just a lonely dumpling in salty water. Get the large.
New Hong Kong isn't a "hidden" gem—the parking lot is too full for that—but it’s a genuine piece of Taylor’s identity. It represents a era of dining where the portions were big, the owners knew your name, and the food was consistently good.
Next time you're in the area, skip the fast-food chains. Support the place with the fish tanks. Your stomach (and your wallet) will thank you.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Verify current hours: Check their official site or Google Maps profile, as dining room availability in Taylor can shift seasonally.
- Inquire about gluten-free: If you have a specific allergy, speak directly to the manager to confirm which sauces use tamari or cornstarch-only thickeners.
- Order the Almond Chicken: It is the definitive dish of the region; even if you usually go for spicy options, it’s worth trying once for the historical context alone.