Discover the Best Food in Chinatown NYC

A Culinary Journey Through the Heart of New York City

Chinatown NYC is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood that attracts foodies from all over the world. With its rich history and cultural heritage, this area is a melting pot of different cuisines, flavors, and traditions. From dim sum to dumplings, Peking duck to pork buns, the food in Chinatown NYC is a feast for the senses. Here, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best food in Chinatown NYC, and show you why this neighborhood is a must-visit destination for food lovers.

The Top 15 Best Foods in Chinatown NYC

Here are our top 15 picks for the best food in Chinatown NYC:

1. Dim Sum 🥟

Dim sum is a Cantonese style of cuisine that involves small dishes served in bamboo baskets. It’s typically eaten for breakfast or lunch, and it’s a popular way to socialize with friends and family. Some of the best dim sum spots in Chinatown NYC include Jing Fong, Nom Wah Tea Parlor, and Golden Unicorn.

2. Roast Duck 🦆

Roast duck is a classic Cantonese dish that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It’s typically served with steamed buns, hoisin sauce, and scallions. Some of the best roast duck in Chinatown NYC can be found at Peking Duck House, Hwa Yuan Szechuan, and Canton Lounge.

3. Soup Dumplings 🥟

Soup dumplings, also known as xiao long bao, are a Shanghai specialty that’s become popular all over the world. These steamed dumplings are filled with pork and a savory broth, and they’re usually served with vinegar and ginger. Some of the best soup dumpling spots in Chinatown NYC include Joe’s Shanghai, Din Tai Fung, and Nan Xiang Dumpling House.

4. Bubble Tea 🍹

Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, is a Taiwanese drink that’s made with tea, milk, and tapioca pearls. It’s a refreshing and sweet treat that’s perfect for a hot summer day. Some of the best bubble tea spots in Chinatown NYC include Kung Fu Tea, CoCo Fresh Tea & Juice, and Ten Ren Tea.

5. Hand-Pulled Noodles 🍜

Hand-pulled noodles, also known as la mian, are a type of Chinese noodle that’s made by stretching and pulling the dough by hand. These noodles are chewy and delicious, and they’re usually served in a hot broth or stir-fry. Some of the best hand-pulled noodle spots in Chinatown NYC include Xi’an Famous Foods, Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles, and Sheng Wang.

6. Dumplings 🥟

Dumplings are a staple food in many Asian cultures, and there’s no shortage of them in Chinatown NYC. These bite-sized pockets of dough can be filled with anything from pork to vegetables to seafood. Some of the best dumpling spots in Chinatown NYC include Prosperity Dumpling, Fried Dumpling, and Vanessa’s Dumpling House.

7. Cantonese BBQ 🍖

Cantonese BBQ, also known as siu mei, is a style of Chinese barbecue that involves roasting meat over an open flame. The meat is usually marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, and it’s served with rice or noodles. Some of the best Cantonese BBQ spots in Chinatown NYC include Big Wong King, Hop Kee, and New Mei Wei.

8. Seafood 🦀

Chinatown NYC is home to some of the freshest seafood in the city. From lobster to crab to shrimp, you’ll find all kinds of seafood dishes here. Some of the best seafood spots in Chinatown NYC include The Lobster Club, Fishmarket Restaurant, and Bo Ky Seafood.

9. Pork Buns 🍔

Pork buns, also known as bao, are a type of steamed bun that’s filled with savory pork and other ingredients. They’re soft, fluffy, and delicious, and they’re perfect for a quick snack or a light meal. Some of the best pork bun spots in Chinatown NYC include Mei Li Wah Bakery, Tim Ho Wan, and Tai Pan Bakery.

10. Hot Pot 🍲

Hot pot, also known as shabu-shabu, is a style of cuisine that involves cooking raw ingredients in a bubbling pot of broth at your table. It’s a fun and interactive way to eat, and it’s perfect for cold winter nights. Some of the best hot pot spots in Chinatown NYC include Haidilao Hot Pot, Little Sheep Mongolian Hot Pot, and 99 Favor Taste.

11. Noodle Soup 🍜

Noodle soup is a comfort food that’s popular all over the world. In Chinatown NYC, you’ll find a wide variety of noodle soups, from spicy Szechuan beef noodle soup to clear Cantonese fish ball noodle soup. Some of the best noodle soup spots in Chinatown NYC include Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles, Lan Zhou Handmade Noodle, and Noodle Village.

12. Taiwanese Fried Chicken 🍗

Taiwanese fried chicken is a popular street food that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s usually marinated in a special sauce and served with a side of pickled vegetables. Some of the best Taiwanese fried chicken spots in Chinatown NYC include Hot Star Large Fried Chicken, Wowfulls, and BaoHaus.

13. Congee 🍲

Congee, also known as juk, is a type of rice porridge that’s eaten for breakfast or as a comfort food. It’s usually served with savory toppings like pork floss, preserved egg, or fried dough. Some of the best congee spots in Chinatown NYC include Congee Village, East Harbor Seafood Palace, and Wo Hop.

14. Chinese Bakery 🍰

Chinese bakeries are a treasure trove of sweet and savory treats. From egg tarts to pineapple buns to sesame balls, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Some of the best Chinese bakery spots in Chinatown NYC include Tai Pan Bakery, Fay Da Bakery, and Lung Moon Bakery.

15. Chinese Herbal Medicine 🌿

Chinese herbal medicine is a traditional form of medicine that uses natural herbs and plants to treat various ailments. In Chinatown NYC, you’ll find a wide variety of herbal shops that sell everything from ginseng to goji berries to dried mushrooms. Some of the best Chinese herbal medicine spots in Chinatown NYC include Kamwo Meridian Herbs, Wing Hop Fung, and Ton Shen Health.

What Makes the Food in Chinatown NYC So Special?

The food in Chinatown NYC is special because it’s a reflection of the neighborhood’s history and culture. Many of the restaurants in Chinatown NYC have been around for decades, and they’ve perfected their recipes over time. Additionally, the food in Chinatown NYC is influenced by the different regions of China, so you’ll find a wide variety of flavors and styles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best time to visit Chinatown NYC for food?

The best time to visit Chinatown NYC for food is during lunch or dinner hours, when most restaurants are open.

2. What is the best way to get to Chinatown NYC?

The best way to get to Chinatown NYC is by subway. The neighborhood is serviced by the B, D, J, Z, N, Q, R, and W trains.

3. Are there vegetarian options in Chinatown NYC?

Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options in Chinatown NYC. Most restaurants offer at least a few vegetarian dishes.

4. Is it safe to eat street food in Chinatown NYC?

Yes, it’s generally safe to eat street food in Chinatown NYC. However, it’s always a good idea to use your best judgment and avoid food that doesn’t look fresh or hygienic.

5. What is the average price range of food in Chinatown NYC?

The average price range of food in Chinatown NYC is between $5 and $15 per dish. However, there are plenty of high-end restaurants that offer more expensive options.

6. What is the most popular dish in Chinatown NYC?

It’s hard to say what the most popular dish in Chinatown NYC is, as there are so many different options. However, some of the most iconic