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Lee King Beef Jerky

4.9
·149 reviews·New York, United States

Authentic Malaysian-style beef jerky, grilled fresh in NYC's vibrant Chinatown. A tender, flavorful treat unlike any other.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, late morning

Fewer crowds, fresh batches

CrowdLow
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Awesome Jerky

Lee King Beef Jerky

Best Time

Weekdays, late morning

Fewer crowds, fresh batches

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Authentic Malaysian-style beef jerky, grilled fresh in NYC's vibrant Chinatown. A tender, flavorful treat unlike any other. TikTok

4.9
(149 reviews)

"The jerky here is unlike North American jerky - it is served warm, with tons of flavor and is very, very tender. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Try the Pork Jerky! :pig:

Many prefer the pork over beef; it's a must-try Malaysian delicacy.

Ask for Freshly Grilled :fire:

Get your jerky hot off the grill for the best flavor and texture.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Malaysian Style Beef Jerky

Malaysian Style Beef Jerky

Tender, flavorful, and grilled fresh. A unique taste experience unlike American jerky.

TikTok
Spicy Pork Jerky

Spicy Pork Jerky

A popular alternative to beef, offering a delicious savory kick.

Reddit
Freshly Grilled Snacks

Freshly Grilled Snacks

Watch your jerky being grilled right in front of you for ultimate freshness.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Authentic Malaysian Jerky Experience

Discover a unique taste of Malaysia in NYC's Chinatown. Lee King Beef Jerky offers tender, flavorful meat snacks grilled fresh. Expect a different texture and spice profile than American jerky. TikTokReddit

Chinatown Foodie Must-Try

This spot is a hidden gem for authentic Malaysian beef jerky, a local favorite for decades. It's a perfect stop during a Chinatown food tour or exploration. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, late morning
Why
Fewer crowds, fresh batches
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, early afternoon
Why
Vibrant Chinatown atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

When in nyc this is the only place to get Malaysian style beef jerky! #creatorsearchinsights #lingkeebeefjerky #malaysianbeefjerky #beefjerky #chinatowneats #nycfood #nycfood #foodreview #tastetest #viral #fyp #delicious #vlog #eatwithme #foodtiktok
@mrsjoannefranco
61 likes • 946 views

Try the Pork Jerky! :pig:

Many prefer the pork over beef; it's a must-try Malaysian delicacy. Reddit

Ask for Freshly Grilled :fire:

Get your jerky hot off the grill for the best flavor and texture. Reddit

Pit stop for some Malaysian Jerky in Chinatown NY! #asian #chinese #chinesefood #beefjerky #malaysian #jerky #asiansnacks #chinatown #chinatownnyc #nyc #thingstodoinnyc #comewithme #hiddengems #pov #foryou #fyp
@girlwithadoge
5.8K likes • 50.4K views
reddit.com

What do you like to buy in Chinatown?

Understand the Price :moneybag:

Sold by weight, prices can add up; consider a few pieces to sample. Reddit

Explore Chinatown :world_map:

Combine your jerky stop with other local food adventures in the neighborhood. TikTok

Tips

from all over the internet

Try the Pork Jerky! :pig:

Many prefer the pork over beef; it's a must-try Malaysian delicacy. Reddit

Ask for Freshly Grilled :fire:

Get your jerky hot off the grill for the best flavor and texture. Reddit

Understand the Price :moneybag:

Sold by weight, prices can add up; consider a few pieces to sample. Reddit

Explore Chinatown :world_map:

Combine your jerky stop with other local food adventures in the neighborhood. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.9
(149 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lee King Beef Jerky is a beloved Chinatown institution, praised for its authentic, tender, and flavorful Malaysian-style jerky, often grilled fresh. While some find the prices a bit high, most agree the unique taste and quality make it a worthwhile stop for a delicious snack. TikTokReddit

"Tried the spicy pork and beef. They were good; but not very spicy. Definitely preferred the pork over beef, and would've gotten more, if the prices were a bit lower. Each piece cost roughly $2.50."

Deb L

"Best beef jerky out there! The pork is good, the beef is better. Fair prices."

Noa Lynn de Castro

"NYC Chinatown local store selling authentic Malaysian meat jerky. They sell all kinds! Spicy/Non-Spicy Pork Jerky, Spicy/Non-Spicy Beef Jerky, Shrimp Jerky, and Curry Beef Jerky!
Seeing that now is Chinese New Year, they are also selling New Year Sticky cake n all sorts New Year cookies!"

Sonia Siaw

What People Like

Authentic Malaysian flavor
Tender, grilled jerky
Unique taste experience

What People Dislike

Can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lee King Beef Jerky is located in Manhattan's Chinatown on Elizabeth Street. The easiest way to get there is by subway. Take the N, Q, R, W, J, Z, 6, or B, D trains to Canal Street station, which is a short walk away. TikTok

Street parking in Chinatown can be very challenging. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a rideshare service. There are also parking garages in the vicinity, but they can be expensive. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy exploring Chinatown on foot, sampling various foods and browsing shops. Consider a guided food tour to discover hidden gems like Lee King Beef Jerky. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No tickets are required to visit Lee King Beef Jerky. It's a retail shop where you can purchase jerky directly. TikTok

Operating hours can vary, especially around holidays. It's best to check their social media or call ahead, but they are typically open during standard business hours for Chinatown shops. Reddit

There is no admission fee to enter the shop. You only pay for the jerky you purchase. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, for large orders or special requests, it might be worth contacting them in advance. For regular purchases, you can buy it on the spot. Reddit

🍽️ 😋 Food & Dining

Lee King offers a variety of Malaysian-style jerky, including spicy and non-spicy beef, spicy and non-spicy pork, shrimp jerky, and curry beef jerky. Reddit

The jerky is often served warm, freshly grilled, which contributes to its tender texture and rich flavor. Reddit

Jerky is sold by weight. Prices can vary, with some reviews mentioning around $2.50 per piece or about $18 for 5 pieces. Reddit

Malaysian jerky is typically more tender, flavorful, and often served warm, with a distinct marinade. American jerky is usually drier and chewier. Reddit

Lee King specializes in meat jerky. Vegetarian options are not typically available. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown, the grilling process of the jerky, and close-ups of the delicious meat snacks. The colorful storefront is also a great shot. TikTok+1

Yes, you can generally take photos inside the shop. Be mindful of other customers and ask permission if you're focusing on individuals. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting and fewer crowds, making for better photos. The evening lights of Chinatown also create a unique ambiance. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lee King Beef Jerky can be a fun, quick stop for families exploring Chinatown. The novelty of watching the jerky being grilled fresh can be engaging for children. While the spicy options might be too much for very young kids, the non-spicy beef or pork jerky offers a tasty, albeit pricier, snack. TikTok

Consider purchasing a few pieces to share. It's a good way to introduce kids to different cultural flavors. Pair it with a visit to a nearby bakery for some sweet treats to balance the savory jerky. Remember that Chinatown can be crowded, so keep a close eye on little ones. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

While Lee King Beef Jerky is a delicious treat, it can be on the pricier side, especially when sold by weight. A few pieces might cost around $18-$20. Reddit For budget travelers, it might be best to consider this a special indulgence rather than a primary food source. Reddit

To make it more budget-friendly, consider sharing a larger portion with a travel companion. Alternatively, focus on exploring the many affordable and delicious food stalls and restaurants in Chinatown that offer more substantial meals for less. TikTok

🍜 Food Adventurers

For those seeking unique culinary experiences, Lee King Beef Jerky is a must-visit. Its Malaysian-style preparation offers a distinct departure from typical jerky. Be adventurous and try the spicy varieties or the less common shrimp and curry beef jerky. Reddit

Engage with the staff, ask about the different flavors, and savor the grilled-to-order freshness. This is an opportunity to taste a piece of Malaysian heritage right in the heart of New York City. TikTok+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Malaysian Jerky

Lee King Beef Jerky is renowned for its authentic Malaysian-style jerky, a culinary tradition passed down through generations. Unlike the dry, tough jerky common in North America, Malaysian jerky is characterized by its tender texture and intense, savory flavor. This is achieved through a unique marinating process and the way it's prepared. Many visitors are surprised by how different it is, often describing it as a revelation. TikTokReddit

The preparation often involves grilling the meat fresh, right in front of customers. This ensures a warm, succulent bite that is packed with flavor. Popular varieties include spicy and non-spicy beef and pork, with options like shrimp and curry beef jerky offering even more adventurous tastes. The shop also sometimes features seasonal items like New Year sticky cakes and cookies, adding to the festive atmosphere. Reddit

When visiting, be prepared for a taste experience that is both familiar and exotic. It’s a true representation of the rich culinary heritage found in New York City’s Chinatown, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast. TikTok+1

Navigating Chinatown's Culinary Scene

Chinatown in New York City is a bustling hub of diverse flavors and culinary traditions. Lee King Beef Jerky is a prime example of the authentic, often family-run businesses that contribute to its vibrant food scene. When exploring, don't be afraid to venture beyond the main thoroughfares to discover hidden gems. TikTok

Many visitors find Chinatown overwhelming due to the sheer number of food options. A great strategy is to go with a plan, perhaps focusing on specific types of food like dumplings, noodles, or, of course, unique snacks like Malaysian jerky. Reddit threads often highlight specific shops and dishes that locals and frequent visitors swear by, offering invaluable insights for first-time explorers. Reddit

Combining a visit to Lee King Beef Jerky with other Chinatown experiences, such as visiting a traditional tea shop or exploring a bustling market, can create a well-rounded and delicious day. Remember to embrace the sensory experience – the sights, sounds, and smells are all part of the adventure. TikTok+1