Discover the Best Street Food in Flushing

Flushing, New York, is a bustling neighborhood that’s renowned for its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene. It’s no secret that the best way to experience Flushing’s eclectic mix of flavors is through its street food. From savory dumplings to sweet bubble tea, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the best street food in Flushing. Get ready to discover the deliciousness that awaits!

🍜 The Best Noodles in Town

If you’re a fan of noodles, Flushing has got you covered. One of the must-try places is Lan Zhou Handmade Noodle, where you can watch the chefs hand-pull the noodles before they’re cooked to perfection. Another favorite spot is Tang Hotpot, where you can customize your own noodle bowl with a variety of broth, meats, and veggies.

🍲 Lan Zhou Handmade Noodle

Located in the heart of Flushing’s Chinatown, Lan Zhou Handmade Noodle is a true hidden gem. The menu is simple but delicious, with options like beef noodle soup and spicy dan dan noodles. What sets Lan Zhou apart is its hand-pulled noodles, which are made fresh daily. You can watch the chefs work their magic through a glass window in the front of the restaurant. Trust us, it’s mesmerizing.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try the lamb noodle soup. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the tender chunks of lamb are a delight. Lan Zhou Handmade Noodle is cash-only, so come prepared. But with prices this affordable, you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy some of the best noodles in town.

🌶️ Tang Hotpot

If you’re in the mood for something more interactive, head to Tang Hotpot. This spot offers a unique dining experience that’s perfect for groups. You start by choosing your broth (we recommend the spicy Szechuan), then select your meats, veggies, and noodles. The ingredients are brought to your table raw, and you cook them yourself in the hotpot. It’s a fun and delicious way to bond with friends and family.

Tang Hotpot also offers a variety of pre-cooked dishes, like their famous golden sand shrimp. These crispy, deep-fried shrimp are coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that’s addictive. The portions are generous, so come hungry. And don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing glass of bubble tea.

🥟 Dumplings, Anyone?

No visit to Flushing is complete without sampling some of the area’s famous dumplings. Whether you prefer them steamed or fried, there’s a dumpling spot for you. Here are two of our favorites:

🧧 Joe’s Steam Rice Roll

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying snack, head to Joe’s Steam Rice Roll. This tiny spot specializes in cheung fun, or rice noodles wrapped around various fillings. The classic combo is shrimp and scallion, but there are plenty of other options to choose from. We love the beef roll, which is stuffed with tender slices of beef and cilantro.

The cheung fun is made fresh to order, and it’s a joy to watch the cooks spread and roll the rice noodles. The final product is soft and slightly chewy, with a flavorful filling. Joe’s Steam Rice Roll is cash-only, so bring your bills.

🥟 White Bear

White Bear is a Flushing institution that’s been serving up some of the best dumplings in town for over 30 years. The star of the menu is the wontons with spicy sauce, which are a flavor explosion in your mouth. The wontons are filled with pork and shrimp, and they’re bathed in a chili oil sauce that’s addictively spicy. We recommend getting an order to go, so you can savor them at home.

White Bear also offers other dumpling options, like the classic pork and chive. The portions are generous, so come with a friend and share a few plates. And don’t forget to try the sesame pancake, which is a crispy and chewy delight.

🍹 Bubble Tea Bliss

Bubble tea, or boba, is a Taiwanese drink that’s taken the world by storm. Flushing has some of the best bubble tea spots in the city, with a variety of flavors and toppings to choose from. Here are two places to get your fix:

🥤 Tiger Sugar

Tiger Sugar is a popular chain that originated in Taiwan and has since spread to other parts of the world. Their signature drink is the brown sugar boba milk, which is a creamy and sweet concoction that’s topped with a thick layer of caramelized brown sugar. The drink is as beautiful as it is delicious, with a distinct tiger stripe pattern. The lines can get long, but the wait is worth it.

🍵 Happy Lemon

Happy Lemon is another chain that’s well-loved by bubble tea aficionados. They offer a variety of flavors, but their salted cheese series is a must-try. This unique topping is a creamy and salty foam that’s layered on top of the tea. It sounds weird, but trust us, it works. The salted cheese green tea is a refreshing and satisfying drink that’s perfect for a hot day.

🍗 Satisfy Your Cravings with These Snacks

Flushing has plenty of options for those who want a quick and satisfying snack. Here are two of our favorites:

🍢 Xi’an Famous Foods

Xi’an Famous Foods started as a small stall in Flushing’s Golden Shopping Mall and has since grown into a beloved chain with locations throughout the city. Their specialty is the lamb noodles, which are served in a spicy broth with hand-pulled noodles and tender chunks of lamb. The dish is comforting and flavorful, and it’s perfect for a chilly day.

If you’re looking for something more portable, try the spicy lamb burger. The patty is made with minced lamb and cumin, and it’s sandwiched between two crispy buns. It’s a delicious and filling snack that’s perfect for a midday pick-me-up.

🐟 Lanzhou Ramen

Lanzhou Ramen is a hole-in-the-wall spot that’s easy to miss, but it’s worth seeking out. Their standout dish is the fried fish ball, which is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The fish is seasoned with a blend of spices that give it a unique flavor. You can also try their noodle dishes, which are hearty and satisfying.

🍨 Sweet Treats to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Flushing has plenty of options for those with a sweet tooth. Here are two places to indulge:

🍰 Kulu Desserts

Kulu Desserts is a dessert spot that offers a variety of sweet treats, from shaved ice to crepes. One of the standout items is the mango pancake, which is a thin crepe wrapped around fresh mango and whipped cream. It’s a refreshing and light dessert that’s perfect for a summer day.

If you’re in the mood for something richer, try the durian mochi. Durian is a tropical fruit that’s known for its pungent odor, but it’s beloved by many. The mochi is soft and chewy, with a creamy durian filling that’s an acquired taste.

🍦 Snowdays

Snowdays is a shaved ice spot that offers a unique twist on the classic dessert. Instead of traditional shaved ice, they use a creamy base that’s shaved into delicate ribbons. You can choose from a variety of toppings, like Fruity Pebbles or Nutella. The result is a decadent and satisfying treat that’s perfect for a hot day.

🤔 FAQs

1. What is street food?

Street food refers to food that is prepared and sold by vendors on the streets or in public places like markets. It’s often associated with fast and affordable food that’s easy to eat on the go.

2. Is street food safe to eat?

While street food can be delicious, it’s important to be cautious when eating it. Make sure the food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meat, and be wary of food that’s been sitting out for a long time. Use your best judgment and trust your instincts.

3. What should I try if I’m a first-timer in Flushing?

If you’re new to Flushing, we recommend trying the dumplings at White Bear and the hand-pulled noodles at Lan Zhou Handmade Noodle. These are two iconic spots that are beloved by locals and tourists alike.

4. Are there vegetarian options available?

Yes, many of the street food spots in Flushing offer vegetarian options. Lan Zhou Handmade Noodle, for example, has a vegetarian noodle soup that’s delicious. Just be sure to ask about the ingredients and preparation