The Best Places To Eat In Chinatown NYC 🍜

Introduction

If you’re looking for an authentic cultural and culinary experience in New York City, Chinatown should be at the top of your list. Located in Lower Manhattan, Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood known for its rich history, bustling streets, and most importantly, its delicious food. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s no shortage of delicious options to satisfy your cravings in this iconic neighborhood.

From traditional dim sum to Szechuan-style hotpot, Chinatown has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to eat in Chinatown NYC, so you can experience the vibrant culinary scene for yourself.

Dim Sum at Jing Fong

Jing Fong is a Chinatown institution that’s been serving up dim sum since 1970. This massive restaurant spans two floors and is known for its traditional Cantonese-style dim sum. The extensive menu features all the classic dishes, from fluffy steamed pork buns to crispy shrimp dumplings. Don’t miss the chance to try the egg tarts, which are a crowd favorite. Jing Fong is the perfect spot for a big group brunch or a casual lunch.

Soup Dumplings at Joe’s Shanghai

Joe’s Shanghai is a must-visit for soup dumpling lovers. These delicate and savory dumplings are filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth. Be sure to order a side of scallion pancakes and the sautéed snow pea leaves. The restaurant is often crowded, but it’s worth the wait. Pro tip: the original location on Pell Street is the best one to visit.

Hainanese Chicken Rice at Nyonya

Nyonya serves up delicious Malaysian cuisine, and their Hainanese chicken rice is a standout dish. The tender poached chicken is served with aromatic rice that’s cooked in chicken broth and pandan leaves. Don’t forget to top it off with their signature chili sauce. Nyonya is a cozy restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a casual dinner or a date night.

Szechuan-Style Hot Pot at Hometown Hotpot & BBQ

If you’re looking for a spicy and interactive dining experience, Hometown Hotpot & BBQ is the place to go. The restaurant specializes in Szechuan-style hot pot, where you cook your own ingredients in a bubbling pot of broth at your table. The menu offers a wide range of meats, seafood, and vegetables, along with various dipping sauces. The spice level can be adjusted to your liking, but be warned – it can get pretty intense. Hometown Hotpot & BBQ is a popular spot, so be sure to make a reservation.

Banh Mi at Banh Mi Saigon Bakery

Banh Mi Saigon Bakery is a tiny shop that serves up some of the best banh mi in the city. The crusty baguettes are filled with a variety of meats, from BBQ pork to lemongrass chicken. The sandwiches are topped with pickled vegetables, cilantro, and a spicy sauce. The shop also offers bubble tea and other Vietnamese snacks. This is the perfect spot for a quick and delicious lunch.

Xiao Long Bao at Shanghai Heping

Shanghai Heping is a no-frills restaurant that’s known for their xiao long bao, or soup dumplings. These bite-sized dumplings are filled with juicy pork and a savory broth, and are a must-try when visiting Chinatown. The restaurant also offers a wide variety of other Shanghainese specialties, including scallion pancakes, pan-fried pork buns, and sautéed rice cakes. Shanghai Heping is cash-only, so be sure to bring some bills.

Exploring Chinatown’s Street Food Scene

One of the best parts about exploring Chinatown is discovering the various street food vendors. From skewered meat to bubble tea, there’s no shortage of delicious snacks to try. Some of the most popular street food vendors include The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, which serves up unique flavors like black sesame and lychee; Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles, where you can watch the chefs pull fresh noodles before your eyes; and Yammy Dumplings, which offers a variety of tasty dumplings.

Best Places To Eat In Chinatown NYC FAQ

1. What’s the best time to visit Chinatown for food?

Chinatown is lively and bustling all day long, but for the best food experience, visit during lunchtime or early dinner hours. Many of the popular restaurants can get crowded during peak hours, so be sure to plan accordingly.

2. What’s the best way to get to Chinatown?

The easiest way to get to Chinatown is by subway. Take the B or D train to Grand Street, the J or Z train to Canal Street, or the 6 train to Canal Street.

3. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options in Chinatown?

Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options in Chinatown. Some of the best options include Buddha Bodai, which serves up vegetarian dim sum, and Lucky Vegetarian, which offers a wide range of vegan dishes.

4. What’s the best spot for a group dinner in Chinatown?

Jing Fong is the perfect spot for a big group dinner. The restaurant is massive and can accommodate large groups, and the dim sum is perfect for sharing.

5. Where can I find the best bubble tea in Chinatown?

There are plenty of great bubble tea spots in Chinatown, but Vivi Bubble Tea and Kung Fu Tea are two of the most popular. Both offer a wide range of flavors and toppings.

6. Are there any BYOB restaurants in Chinatown?

Yes, there are several BYOB restaurants in Chinatown. Some popular options include Spicy Village and Little Canal.

7. Is it customary to tip in Chinatown restaurants?

Yes, it’s customary to tip in restaurants in Chinatown, just like in any other part of the city. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.

8. Where can I find the best roast duck in Chinatown?

For the best roast duck, head to Wo Hop on Mott Street. The crispy skin and tender meat make for a mouthwatering dish.

9. Is there a dress code for restaurants in Chinatown?

Most restaurants in Chinatown don’t have a dress code, but it’s always a good idea to dress appropriately for the occasion. Some of the more upscale restaurants may require a dressier attire.

10. Where can I find the best soup dumplings in Chinatown?

Joe’s Shanghai is the go-to spot for soup dumplings in Chinatown. The original location on Pell Street is the best one to visit.

11. Do I need to make reservations for restaurants in Chinatown?

It depends on the restaurant and the time of day. Some popular spots, like Jing Fong and Hometown Hotpot & BBQ, may require reservations, especially during peak hours. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to check.

12. What’s the price range for restaurants in Chinatown?

The price range for restaurants in Chinatown varies widely. You can find cheap eats for under $10, as well as more upscale options that can cost upwards of $50 per person.

13. What’s the best way to explore Chinatown’s food scene?

The best way to explore Chinatown’s food scene is to go on a food tour. There are several companies that offer guided tours of the neighborhood, where you can sample a variety of dishes and learn about the neighborhood’s history and culture.

Conclusion

Chinatown is a vibrant and exciting neighborhood filled with delicious food and rich history. Whether you’re in the mood for dim sum, soup dumplings, or spicy hot pot, there’s something for everyone in this iconic neighborhood. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your next culinary adventure in Chinatown. So what are you waiting for? Grab your chopsticks and get ready to indulge in some of the best food NYC has to offer.

Remember, there’s always more to explore in Chinatown, so don’t be afraid to try something new. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, there’s always something delicious waiting to be discovered.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is based on the author’s personal experiences and opinions. Prices, menus, and hours of operation may vary. Please check with individual restaurants for the most up-to-date information.