The Corner: Redefining Chinese-American Cuisine in Hell’s Kitchen
Discover how Thinh Nguyen redefines Chinese-American cuisine at The Corner, a modern eatery serving bold flavors like Peking Imperial Chicken and Magic Chili Chicken. Learn about his journey, standout dishes, and future plans under the MOGAO Hospitality Group.
The Corner has become a hotspot for bold flavors and modern Chinese-American dishes since opening in 2022. Tucked into the heart of Hell’s Kitchen, this restaurant takes comfort classics like Peking Imperial Chicken and reinvents them with a fresh, vibrant twist.
Behind the magic is Thinh Nguyen, a seasoned restaurateur who’s spent over a decade shaping the New York City dining scene. As part of the MOGAO Hospitality Group, he’s helped launch several successful concepts, but The Corner holds a special place as their first brand-new creation.
“We wanted to reimagine what modern Chinese dining could look like,” Thinh says. “It’s about staying true to traditional flavors while making it exciting and approachable for today’s diners.”
The Menu: A Perfect Blend of Familiar and Bold
At The Corner, every dish tells a story. The Peking Imperial Chicken has been a top-seller since day one, offering crispy perfection in every bite. Meanwhile, the Magic Chili Chicken is a spicy standout that Thinh can’t get enough of.
“It’s like popcorn chicken, but with a crunchy, fiery kick from Sichuan-inspired chili,” he explains. “You can even eat the chili by itself—it’s that good.”
Another must-try? The West Lake Beef Soup, a smooth and aromatic dish that Thinh describes as “a bowl of comfort.”
The restaurant’s monthly specials also keep things interesting. From playful takes on dim sum to seasonal spins on Chinese-American classics, these rotating dishes have become a favorite among regulars. “Some of our specials even make it onto the permanent menu if customers love them enough,” Thinh adds.
Pro Tips for Aspiring Restaurateurs
With over a decade of experience in the industry, Thinh is full of practical advice for anyone dreaming of opening their own restaurant.
“Location is everything,” he says. “Even if the rent is a bit higher, a spot with good foot traffic will pay off.”
He also emphasizes the importance of choosing spaces that are ready to go with key infrastructure like gas lines and kitchen hoods. “If the setup isn’t already there, it can take years to get everything approved,” he warns.
What’s Next for The Corner and MOGAO Hospitality Group?
The Corner is just one piece of the puzzle for the ever-growing MOGAO Hospitality Group. Their portfolio includes Uncle Ted’s, Upon the Palace—a new upscale Chinese dining experience—and the soon-to-open Anam Café, set to debut on 38th Street.
“We’re aiming to open a few new restaurants every year,” Thinh shares. With a mix of creative concepts and a focus on quality, MOGAO Hospitality is quickly becoming a powerhouse in New York’s dining scene.