Fat Choy is a fast-casual Chinese spot in Bergen County where patrons customize bowls with savory + healthy Chinese cuisine. With its motto, “CHOY to the World,” the restaurant invites diners to indulge in food that brings flavor and a sense of well-being. Read on to discover Fat Choy, a standout spot in Bergen County, featured on The New York Times’ list of top restaurants, located at 42 East Palisade Avenue in Englewood, and meet the culinary genius behind it all, Justin Lee.
About The Head Chef + Co-Owner, Justin Lee
Head Chef Justin Lee’s love for food began at an early age. Weekends for the Lee family often meant trips from their home in Virginia to New York City’s Chinatown. Although Justin grew up in Virginia, his roots have always been tied to NYC, with his parents being raised as New Yorkers and his grandparents working in the culinary scene of Chinatown. After graduating from Virginia Tech, Chef Justin pursued his culinary dreams by enrolling at The Culinary Institute of America. He honed his skills at several well-known New York City restaurants, including the popular Locanda Verde. Most recently, Chef Justin and his business partner Jon Krieger opened Fat Choy. Throughout his career, Justin has remained focused on a clear vision: to create a dining experience centered around fresh, whole ingredients and to serve healthy, flavorful plates — or bowls — to all.
What sets Fat Choy apart is the quality of its food. The team ensures that all ingredients remain fresh throughout the day. Chef Justin explains, “We never know who will walk through the door, so if it’s their first visit, we want to make sure it’s not their last. That’s why every meal matters, and we’re committed to serving fresh food every single time”. Chef Justin strives for each guest to walk in excited to eat and leave feeling fully satisfied — knowing that not only did they enjoy their meal, but that what they’re putting into their bodies is both nourishing and appetizing.
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The Fat Choy team has big ambitions beyond what it is today. As Justin says, “This is just the start of something truly special.” Already celebrated as a standout on The New York Times list of top restaurants, Justin and the Fat Choy team are confident they’re only scratching the surface of their potential. With the desire to expand to new locations, Justin is ready to take a leap of faith, aiming to spread Fat Choy’s joy to others and share his love for fresh, hearty Chinese cuisine with even more people.
The Space
Giant red doors welcome guests as they enter, setting the tone for an exciting experience just beyond. Inside, the space gives off a cool, modern vibe with subtle Chinese influences, enhanced by vibrant wall art that stretches across the room. The artwork presents a mix of Chinese characters, dragons, vegetables, and quirky, eye-catching designs. Like most “build-your-own” dining spots, customers follow a line to customize their ideal bowl. There are also a few seats for those who prefer to enjoy their meal on the spot.
The Food
Building a bowl is a simple four-step process:
Step 1: Choose Your Base: aromatic Jasmine rice, vegetable fried rice, cauliflower rice, little gem lettuce.
Step 2: Pick Your Veggies: chili cauliflower, salt + pepper eggplant, jade vegetables, ginger chili carrots, stir-fried Brussels sprouts, spicy crispy shrooms.
Step 3: Select Your Protein: chili tofu, Kung “POW” Chicken, ginger shrimp, crispy sesame beef.
Step 4: Add Your Garnishes: toasted sesame seeds, scallions, cilantro, chili crisp oil, ginger scallion sauce.
If the choices feel overwhelming, one can always opt for one of Chef Lee’s signature bowls, such as the “POPO’S GOT BEEF” or “SHRIMP HAPPENS.” Recently, Fat Choy confirmed that all items cooked in the kitchen (except for the chili oil topping) are made with Zero Acre. Zero Acre oil is crafted through the natural fermentation of sugarcane, ensuring a completely seed-oil-free experience.
See More: Yuan: Jersey City’s Newest Chinese Restaurant
Hours + Parking
Fat Choy’s hours are Tuesday-Sunday from 11AM-9PM. For those in a hurry or taking their food to go, plenty of street parking is available along East Palisade Avenue in Englewood.
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The Best Bergen County, NJ Spas for a Self-Care Day
Sometimes, a reset is just what’s needed, but when a getaway isn’t an option, a visit to a local Bergen County spa and a little self-care can work wonders. Spas provide an escape to soothe muscles, rejuvenate skin with luxurious treatments, recover from a girls’ night out, or simply unwind and melt away stress and anxieties (because, well, life can be a lot). From steamy saunas to indulgent head spa treatments and full days of relaxation, this roundup features luxurious spas and spa treatments in Bergen County that provide the ultimate spa experience.
490 LAB | 38 River Edge Road, River Edge
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This wellness spot focuses on health and longevity and is backed by the latest clinical research and medical evidence. The cold plunges here are a BG favorite, available for 15-, 30-, or 60-minute sessions.
Beyond Day Spa | 20 Prospect Avenue #902, Hackensack
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Beyond Day Spa has a variety of services to choose from, including facials, hair removal, hair + nail services, massages, body + eyelash treatments, and non-surgical cosmetic treatments. There are also monthly specials to take advantage of.
Read More: 10 Best Boutiques in Bergen County, New Jersey
BRC Day Spa | 24-20 Broadway, Fair Lawn
BRC Day Spa prides itself on its website, saying, “Welcome to Luxury.” This co-ed spa has a range of relaxing experiences, including a swimming pool, hydro massage, cryotherapy, cold plunge, infrared sauna, Himalayan salt room, float spa, and traditional sauna.
CGI Holistic Fitness + Spa | 111 Homans Avenue, Closter
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For over 26 years, CGI has been serving the Bergen County community. In addition to its spa services, the facility also features a holistic healing center, a body + brain center, corporate wellness programs, an ionized pool, locker rooms with saunas, a taorobics studio, and a gym—all under one roof.
Fountain Spa | 1150 NJ-17, Ramsey + 10 Riverside Square Mall, Hackensack
The Fountain Spa has two locations in Bergen County, one in Hackensack and the other in Ramsey. It has everything needed to unwind, relax, and feel pampered. From steam rooms and cozy robes with slippers (BG’s favorite part) to whirlpools, facial + body spa packages, waxing, nail services, and multiple lounges, it’s a one-stop destination for all things pampering.
Massage Luxe | 327 Franklin Avenue, Wyckoff
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Massage Luxe presents customers with nine different massage options, ranging from Swedish and prenatal to relaxing couples massages. In addition to massages, the spa has a variety of facial + waxing services. A top pick is the hydrating facial, an ideal choice for getting the skin ready for summer.
Mindful Waters | 240 Pegasus Avenue Unit 102, Northvale
Mindful Waters provides a luxurious, relaxing, and rejuvenating wellness experience using a science-backed, eco-friendly approach. It features a one-of-a-kind water bar and a variety of wellness services like cold therapy, vibration therapy, float therapy, and infrared therapy.
New Place Organic Day Spa | 649 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park
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This spot is a hidden gem in Cliffside Park. From the outside, it may not stand out, but stepping inside reveals a full spa experience. With body scrubs and wraps, couples massages, facial peels, waxing, and the trending scalp massage that’s been making waves online, this spot has a ton of options for everyone.
Padel United | 160 Broadway, Cresskill
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Padel United Sports Club is a new addition to Cresskill, providing a blend of fitness and entertainment in a sophisticated setting. Featuring state-of-the-art padel courts and a fully equipped wellness center, the club provides a range of refreshing amenities, including a sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, hot tub, 40-foot saltwater lap pool, massage therapy technology, and more.
Paradise Spa + Sauna | 100 Linwood Plaza, Fort Lee
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This Korean bathhouse in Fort Lee is nestled within the busy Linwood Shopping Center. From skincare to spa treatments and body scrubs to the soothing warmth of saunas, this spot provides so many ways for one to have some R+R. BG pro tip: After a relaxing day, visit Hachi Sushi across the street for some rolls or sashimi, and always drizzle spicy mayo.
Ridgewood European Day Spa | 44 Franklin Avenue, Ridgewood
Ridgewood European Day Spa, also known as RDS, provides a range of services, including facials, professional exfoliators, massage therapy, clinical treatments, waxing, and spa packages. A standout choice is the Sea C Spa treatment, an age-defying skincare service created to diminish visible signs of aging and rejuvenate the skin for a more youthful + bright appearance.
Soha Spa | 480 Boulevard, Garfield
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Soha Organic Day Spa presents a variety of services, including body treatments, foot spas, and various facial options. Couples can enjoy relaxation and quality time together with specially curated experiences. BG loves the Swedish couples’ massage, especially with hot stones for additional cozy warmth.
SoJo Spa Club | 660 River Road, Edgewater
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SoJo Spa creates the feeling of being far from Jersey. This expansive, multi-level spa in Edgewater provides services like heated outdoor baths, cozy saunas, mouthwatering bites at the food court, and world-class massages. BG pro tip: Sojo also has a hotel for anyone looking to get away for the night.
The Spa at Glenpointe | 200 Frank West Burr Boulevard, Teaneck
The Spa at Glenpointe is a hidden gem in Teaneck, providing an indoor pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and post-workout wellness services. It’s an optimal spot for parents to unwind, with kids’ activities as well, making it a one-stop destination for both adults and children.
Spavia | 379 NJ-17, Ridgewood
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Spavia Ridgewood gives customers a variety of treatments tailored to their needs and preferences. Treatments include massages, body + facial treatments, eyelash extensions, tanning, mineral makeup application, and waxing. There are specialized treatments for men, making it a suitable spot for a relaxing day out with your significant other.
See More: A Guide to the Best Facials in Jersey City
King Spa | 321 Commercial Avenue, Palisades Park
At King Spa, guests can immerse themselves in Korean spa culture, enjoying a blend of holistic health and absolute relaxation. The spa has a dry sauna, wet sauna, healing room, aroma lounge, restaurant, and juice bar, providing a complete wellness experience.
