CheLi brings a slice of Shanghai to the East Village with an atmosphere that feels like you’ve wandered into someone’s countryside home in China. The restaurant specializes in cuisine from Jiangnan, focusing on subtle, delicate flavors rather than the bold spices found elsewhere. Their braised pork belly is a revelation—tender enough to cut with a spoon, glazed in a sweet-savory sauce that perfectly balances the richness.

What makes CheLi stand out is their attention to seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The blue crab steamed rice arrives in a bamboo pot, capturing the essence of the crab while letting the perfectly cooked grains shine. Don’t miss the “eight treasures” tea smoked duck, which arrives with crackling skin and meat infused with tea aromatics that elevate it beyond typical duck preparations.

The space itself feels transportive, with wooden beams, soft lighting, and antique touches that create a warm, intimate atmosphere without feeling like a theme park. Service strikes that perfect balance of being knowledgeable without being intrusive, guiding newcomers through unfamiliar dishes with genuine enthusiasm.

For those looking to explore beyond the familiar territories of Chinese cuisine in New York, CheLi offers an experience that’s both authentic and accessible, making it worth seeking out.