Chinatown in New York City is a vibrant hub known for its rich cultural history and exceptional culinary offerings. It is the go-to destination for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine, ranging from traditional dishes to innovative culinary creations. This guide outlines the best restaurants in Chinatown NYC, ensuring that you experience the full flavor of this iconic neighborhood.
1. Golden Steamer
Golden Steamer stands out for its traditional steamed buns, a staple in Chinese breakfast and snack culture. Since its opening in 2009, this bakery has become a favorite for its affordable and delicious buns. Flavors like pumpkin, salted egg yolk, and barbecued pork draw long lines, especially during morning hours.
The ambiance is simple and focuses on the food, offering a warm, steaming bun straight out of the steamer for a taste of authentic Chinatown right in the palm of your hand. At just $1.50 each, these buns offer a bite of luxury without the hefty price tag.
2. Joe’s Shanghai
Joe’s Shanghai is synonymous with soup dumplings. This restaurant introduced the delights of Shanghai-style xiao long bao to New York City in the 1990s and remains a culinary landmark. The dumplings, filled with rich broth and tender meat, are a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Chinatown.
The space is large and well-suited for groups, making it an ideal spot for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The lively atmosphere adds to the authentic dining experience, ensuring that every visit is memorable.
3. Spicy Village
Spicy Village, known for its Henan-style comfort food, is a modest establishment that packs a flavorful punch with dishes like the famous “big tray chicken”. This hearty dish, loaded with chicken, potatoes, and spices over hand-pulled noodles, is perfect for sharing and is a testament to the rustic, homestyle Chinese cooking.
The restaurant’s no-frills decor allows the food to shine, creating an intimate dining experience that focuses on the quality and flavors of the meal. It is a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a genuine taste of Chinatown.
4. Deluxe Green Bo
A stalwart of Shanghainese cuisine, Deluxe Green Bo is renowned for its authentic dishes like xiao long bao and scallion pancakes. Despite its modest exterior, the food here is crafted with care, offering flavors that transport diners straight to Shanghai.
The noodles and dumplings are made in-house, ensuring each dish serves freshness and traditional taste. Deluxe Green Bo provides a culinary journey through China’s rich gastronomic landscape, right in the heart of New York’s Chinatown.
5. Taiwan Pork Chop House
At Taiwan Pork Chop House, diners can enjoy Taiwanese specialties that are both flavorful and hearty. The restaurant is famous for its namesake pork chops, marinated and fried to perfection, providing a crispy yet tender eating experience.
This spot combines quality ingredients with authentic Taiwanese cooking techniques to deliver meals that satisfy comfort food cravings. The casual setting and friendly service make it a welcoming place for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
6. King’s Kitchen
King’s Kitchen offers a blend of Cantonese culinary traditions with a modern twist. The restaurant is particularly noted for its clay pot rice and barbecued meats. Each dish is meticulously prepared, highlighting the flavors that have made Cantonese cuisine a global favorite.
The interior design combines elegance with a touch of tradition, making it a comfortable and stylish venue for any dining occasion. Whether it is a family dinner or a romantic evening, King’s Kitchen promises an unforgettable culinary experience.
7. House of Joy
House of Joy is renowned for its dim sum served via traditional carts. As you select from a variety of steamed buns, dumplings, and rice noodle rolls, the experience is as much a visual feast as a culinary one. This method adds an element of surprise and delight to the dining experience, perfect for those unfamiliar with the extensive options in dim sum.
The lively atmosphere and the chance to interact with the food carts make this restaurant a fun and engaging place for all ages. House of Joy is a cornerstone in Chinatown for those who enjoy the traditional dim sum experience.
8. Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles
Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles is an aptly named gem in the heart of Chinatown, where the art of noodle making takes center stage. Diners can watch as chefs pull noodles by hand, a technique that results in textures that are both chewy and tender. The restaurant specializes in noodle soups and stir-fried noodle dishes, offering a robust flavor profile in every bowl.
The intimate setting of the restaurant, combined with the aroma of freshly prepared noodles, creates a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. This spot is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a quick yet satisfying meal in a setting that feels both rustic and authentic.
9. Jiang’s Kitchen
Jiang’s Kitchen, known for its hotpot, offers a unique culinary experience with its Halal Chinese cuisine. This cozy eatery stands out in the East Village for its commitment to authentic flavors and halal ingredients, catering to a diverse clientele seeking delicious, culturally conscious dining options.
For travel groups comprising Muslim patrons, Jiang’s Kitchen offers an assortment of menu options ranging from noodles and soups to lamb ribs and chicken plates.
10. Nom Wah Tea Parlor
As one of the oldest tea houses in New York City, Nom Wah Tea Parlor holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and tourists. This iconic spot has been serving traditional Chinese tea and dim sum since the 1920s, offering a nostalgic taste of old New York alongside its delicious offerings. The tea selection is extensive, perfect for pairing with a variety of dim sum items from steamed buns to rice rolls.
The vintage charm of Nom Wah adds to its appeal, with retro decor and historic photos that transport diners back in time. It is a great place for those looking to enjoy a leisurely brunch or a late afternoon snack in a setting that feels like a step back in time.
11. Jing Fong Restaurant
Jing Fong, with its grand dining hall, epitomizes the lively atmosphere of traditional Cantonese dim sum restaurants. The space is vast, capable of hosting hundreds of guests at once, making it a popular choice for large gatherings and celebrations. The variety of dim sum on offer is impressive, from shrimp dumplings to pork siu mai, each bite bursting with flavor.
Despite its size, Jing Fong maintains a sense of intimacy thanks to the attentive service and communal dining setup. It is an ideal venue for those who enjoy the hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant while indulging in some of the best dim sum in the city.
12. Buddha Bodai
Buddha Bodai has made a name for itself as one of the premier vegetarian and kosher Chinese restaurants in Chinatown. Their menu is a delight for vegetarians and vegans alike, featuring creative takes on classic dishes like General Tso’s chicken made entirely from mushrooms. The quality of the ingredients shines through in every dish, providing a delicious and guilt-free dining experience.
The restaurant’s commitment to upholding both kosher and vegetarian standards without sacrificing flavor has made it a standout in the culinary scene of Chinatown. It is a peaceful retreat for those seeking a meal that is both health-conscious and satisfying.
13. Shanghai 21
Shanghai 21 is revered for its authentic Shanghainese cuisine, particularly the soup dumplings and braised pork belly. The dumplings, delicate and filled with a rich, savory broth, are a must-try for anyone visiting the area. Meanwhile, the pork belly is slow-cooked to perfection, its flavors enhanced by traditional spices and sauces.
The atmosphere at Shanghai 21 is cozy and inviting, with decor that reflects the elegance of Shanghai. It is a great choice for a romantic dinner or a quiet family gathering, where guests can enjoy classic dishes prepared with a high level of care and expertise.
14. Manbu Cafe
Manbu Cafe brings the lively atmosphere of Hong Kong’s cha chaan tengs to Chinatown, complete with mah jong-tiled tables and creatively served dishes. Patrons are charmed by the inventive presentation, like noodles spilling out of their cups and teddy bears floating in tea. The menu, vast and varied, includes delights like Ovaltine condensed milk French toast, making every visit a unique culinary adventure.
This cafe is a fantastic spot for breakfast or lunch in Chinatown, where the ambiance matches the eclectic menu. Whether you are craving sweet and salty pork with maple syrup French toast or baked spaghetti, Manbu Cafe promises an Instagram-worthy meal that’s as adorable as it is delicious.
15. Famous Sichuan
Famous Sichuan on Pell Street is a haven for lovers of spicy Sichuan cuisine, offering dishes that are rich in flavor and history. The mapo tofu here is exceptional, known for its silky texture and the iconic numbing sensation provided by Sichuan peppercorns. It’s a vibrant dish that represents the culinary artistry of Sichuan cooking.
Additionally, Famous Sichuan caters to the night owls of New York, staying open until 2am. It is the perfect place for late-night diners looking to satisfy their cravings for spicy food, which also doubles as a popular hangover cure.
16. Uncle Lou
Uncle Lou is a relatively new addition to Chinatown, quickly earning a reputation for its Cantonese family-style meals. It is an ideal choice for large groups, featuring lazy susan-equipped tables that encourage sharing and interaction. The menu highlights include HK-style char siu lo mein and half chenpi duck, served in a relaxed yet modern setting.
The restaurant blends traditional Cantonese flavors with a contemporary dining experience, making it a standout destination for both locals and tourists. The bustling yet laid-back vibe at Uncle Lou mirrors the dynamic nature of Chinatown itself.
17. Sweet Moment
At Sweet Moment, you can indulge in bingsoo, a towering Korean shaved ice dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Served in massive 32oz portions, this dessert is perfect for sharing and is a hit on social media thanks to its impressive height and variety of toppings. Flavors range from black sesame with red bean to matcha with cheesecake pieces, each offering a unique taste experience.
This dessert spot is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth, where the pleasure of eating their bingsoo matches the joy of snapping the perfect photo. The airy, fluffy texture of the shaved ice, combined with rich, decadent toppings, makes every bite a delightful treat.
18. Hou Yi Hot Pot
Hou Yi Hot Pot offers an all-you-can-eat experience that is both a challenge and a treat for the truly hungry. For a set price, diners can enjoy 100 minutes of endless hot pot options, including various meats, vegetables, and dumplings, all cooked in a flavorful soup base of your choice. The adventure is in the cooking, as you watch your chosen ingredients simmer to perfection right at your table.
The restaurant also includes dessert in the deal, encouraging diners to save room for ice cream and other sweet treats. It is a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a leisurely meal where they can eat to their heart’s content.
19. Peking Duck House
Peking Duck House offers a dining experience centered around Peking duck, a celebrated dish known for its crispy skin and succulent meat. The restaurant presents the duck in a traditional manner, carving it tableside in a performance that complements the flavors of the dish. Guests are encouraged to wrap the sliced duck with pancakes and plum sauce, enhancing the rich flavors.
This BYOB establishment allows diners to pair their duck with a personal choice of beverage, making each meal unique. Whether you bring a Riesling or a 6-pack of Tsingtao, the Peking Duck House ensures a memorable meal with every visit.
20. Kopitiam
Kopitiam serves as a culinary bridge to Malaysia right in the heart of Chinatown, offering an authentic taste of Malaysian street food. The cafe is known for its vibrant atmosphere and a menu that features specialties like nasi lemak—coconut rice served with a hard-boiled egg and spicy sambal. Its hand-pulled noodles and Milo-dusted French toast add a touch of nostalgia for those familiar with Southeast Asian flavors.
The cafe also simplifies decision-making with its unique “I Don’t Know What To Eat” menu, which includes a main course, two snacks, a dessert, and a drink for a fixed price. This approach not only eases the ordering process but ensures a balanced taste of Malaysian cuisine, making Kopitiam a must-visit for an immersive and hassle-free dining experience.
A Taste of Chinatown
Chinatown NYC remains a vibrant culinary center where traditional flavors and innovative dishes coexist. The neighborhood’s array of dining options reflects its rich cultural tapestry and its ongoing evolution as a top destination for food lovers. Whether you are seeking a quick snack or a lavish meal, the best restaurants in Chinatown NYC offer something for every palate. Visit and indulge in a dining experience that will linger in your memory long after your meal has ended.
Visit NYC: Your Gateway to Chinatown’s Dining Scene
At Visit NYC, we are dedicated to helping you discover the best that New York City has to offer. From the bustling streets of Chinatown to the serene views of Central Park, our visit NYC guide provides you the information about city’s top dining spots and attractions. Browse our pages and find your perfect meal in the heart of NYC’s most iconic neighborhoods.
