Bites Nearby: Uncle Dai’s Chinese Restaurant

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Glen Cove Patch picks a great restaurant either in town or nearby that is worth checking out. Here's this week's choice:

On any given night, Uncle Dai’s is packed with hungry locals. With such great menu options, and reasonable prices, this is one establishment that knows how to keep patrons coming back for more.

Wonton chips and duck sauce await customers at the table. Upon being seated, water is immediately poured and delicious, hot tea is offered. White wine or soda is also free for those who dine-in.

The lovely ambiance (including murals, paintings and memorabilia) and prompt staff add to the already superb quality of food. All-time favorite appetizers and noodles include steamed dumplings, cold noodles with sesame sauce, pork fried rice and vegetable lo mein.

Their poultry entrees are consistently tender and mouthwatering. The sweet and sour chicken is tangy and flavorful. For those who crave a bit more spice, try their chicken with orange flavor (chunks of deep fried chicken and assorted vegetables in house special hot sauce). Both come with choice of white or brown rice.

The tofu with chicken in Chinese casserole was a complete surprise. This particular dish had much more flavor than originally anticipated. It came with juicy chunks of chicken (pork or beef, if preferred) and a medley of mixed vegetables. Ask the waiter to prepare this entree with garlic sauce; it infused a more delightful flavor into the tofu.

Parking is available on street or in downtown parking lot. Free delivery with a $10 minimum order. Uncle Dai’s also caters and welcomes large parties. For a full list of menu items, visit their Web site.

26 School St. 516-671-1144. Open Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Prices: $10 to $20 for entrees.