Roast Pork (Char Siu) at Great NY Noodle Town: A Sweet and Savory Cantonese Classic

When you walk past the window at Great NY Noodle Town in Chinatown, New York, it’s hard to ignore the glistening rows of roast meats hanging just behind the glass. Among them, one dish in particular shines with a deep red glaze and irresistible aroma—Roast Pork, better known in Cantonese cuisine as Char Siu.

This flavorful, aromatic dish is one of the most popular items on the menu—and for good reason. With its perfectly caramelized exterior, tender texture, and sweet-savory balance, the Roast Pork at Great NY Noodle Town is a masterpiece of traditional Chinese barbecue.

What Is Char Siu?

Char Siu (叉烧) is a Cantonese-style barbecued pork known for its signature reddish hue and sticky, slightly sweet glaze. The name translates to “fork roast,” referencing the traditional method of skewering the meat on long forks and roasting it over an open flame.

The marinade typically consists of:

Hoisin sauce
Soy sauce
Chinese five-spice powder
Rice wine or Shaoxing wine
Honey or maltose (for that beautiful glaze)
Red fermented bean curd or food coloring (for the signature red color)

At Great NY Noodle Town, Char Siu is made using time-honored recipes and techniques, ensuring that each piece is both visually stunning and full of deep, complex flavor.

The Flavor Profile: Sweet, Smoky, and Rich

The Roast Pork at Great NY Noodle Town is a perfectly balanced flavor experience:

Sweet: Thanks to honey and hoisin, the exterior glaze caramelizes during roasting, creating a glossy, sticky sweetness.
Savory and Umami-rich: Soy sauce and five-spice powder add depth and richness.
Smoky and Roasted: The high-heat roasting method adds a slightly charred, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness.

The pork is roasted until the edges are slightly crisp and charred, while the inside remains juicy and tender. It’s the kind of dish that keeps you reaching for just one more bite.

How It’s Served at Great NY Noodle Town

There are a few popular ways to enjoy Char Siu at Great NY Noodle Town:

🍚 Roast Pork Over Rice

One of the most beloved combinations, this dish features generous slices of roast pork laid over fluffy steamed white rice, accompanied by blanched greens or pickled vegetables. A drizzle of the meat’s natural juices ties everything together for a satisfying and well-balanced meal.

🍜 Roast Pork with Noodles

For a heartier option, order the Char Siu with egg noodles—either dry or in a light broth. The noodles soak up the flavors of the pork, creating a warm, comforting bowl that showcases the versatility of this Cantonese classic.

Char Siu as a Shared Dish

If you’re dining with a group, you can order Roast Pork as a side dish to share, served sliced on a platter. It pairs beautifully with other Cantonese dishes like roast duck, sautéed greens, or fried rice.

Why Roast Pork at Great NY Noodle Town Stands Out

Authentic Cantonese Flavor: This isn’t your average barbecue pork. Great NY Noodle Town uses traditional Cantonese marinades and roasting methods, giving their Char Siu an unmistakable depth of flavor and cultural authenticity.
Consistent Quality: Many regulars return specifically for the Roast Pork, knowing that the quality never wavers—crispy at the edges, tender in the middle, and perfectly seasoned every time.
Great Value: Despite its rich taste and meticulous preparation, Roast Pork at Great NY Noodle Town is affordably priced, making it accessible for everyday diners and food lovers alike.
Visual Appeal: With its glossy red finish and charred tips, this dish looks as good as it tastes. It’s the kind of plate that stops conversations when it hits the table.

The Cultural Significance of Char Siu

Char Siu isn’t just food—it’s a symbol of comfort and tradition for many in the Chinese diaspora. It’s served at family dinners, festive gatherings, and even as a childhood favorite for many Chinese-Americans. At Great NY Noodle Town, this dish connects generations and cultures, preserving a culinary heritage in the middle of modern-day Manhattan.

For those unfamiliar with traditional Cantonese food, Roast Pork offers an easy entry point: bold flavors, a satisfying texture, and a presentation that feels both familiar and exciting.

Roast Pork