The Best Food in Chinatown New York

Discover the Most Delicious Dishes and Hidden Gems in Chinatown

Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood in New York City that offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. From traditional Chinese dishes to fusion cuisine, there is no shortage of delicious food to try. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey to discover the best food in Chinatown New York. Join us as we explore the most popular dishes and hidden gems that you cannot miss.

🍲 Best Dumplings: Nom Wah Tea Parlor

Nom Wah Tea Parlor has been serving delicious dim sum since 1920. This iconic restaurant is famous for its steaming baskets of dumplings that come in different shapes and flavors. The pork soup dumplings are a must-try, with their juicy filling and delicate skin. The shrimp and snow pea leaf dumplings are also a hit among the customers.

🍤 Other Recommended Dumpling Spots:

Jing Fong Restaurant
Golden Unicorn
Joe’s Shanghai

🍚 Best Rice and Noodle Dishes: Xi’an Famous Foods

Xi’an Famous Foods is a small restaurant that packs big flavors. They specialize in hand-pulled noodles that are made fresh every day. Their spicy lamb noodles are one of the most popular dishes, featuring tender pieces of lamb and a fiery sauce. The cumin lamb noodles and spicy and sour spinach noodles are also crowd-pleasers.

🍜 Other Recommended Rice and Noodle Spots:

Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles
Big Wong King
Shu Jiao Fu Zhou Cuisine

🍦 Best Desserts: Taiyaki NYC

Taiyaki NYC is a Japanese dessert shop that serves up soft-serve ice cream in a fish-shaped cone. The cones are filled with different flavors like custard, red bean, and matcha. Their signature taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake that is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. It is filled with your choice of cream or red bean paste.

🍰 Other Recommended Dessert Spots:

Bibble & Sip
Eggloo
Chinatown Ice Cream Factory

🥡 Best Hidden Gem: Wah Fung No. 1 Fast Food

Wah Fung No. 1 Fast Food is a hole-in-the-wall eatery that serves up some of the best roasted meats in Chinatown. The roast pork, roast duck, and crispy skin chicken are cooked to perfection and served with rice or noodles. The price is also very affordable, making it a popular spot for locals.

🍽️ Other Recommended Hidden Gems:

Tiny Shanghai
Wing Kee Noodle
Lam Zhou Handmade Noodle

🍺 Best Drinks: Apotheke

Apotheke is a speakeasy bar that serves up craft cocktails in a cozy setting. The bar features an extensive list of drinks that are made with fresh herbs and juices. The bartenders are skilled in mixing unique cocktails that cater to your taste buds. It is the perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic date.

🍹 Other Recommended Drink Spots:

Bar Goto
Whiskey Tavern
169 Bar

FAQs

1. What is the most popular dish in Chinatown?

The most popular dish in Chinatown is dim sum. Dim sum is a Chinese brunch that consists of small bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates. It is typically accompanied by tea and is meant to be shared with friends and family.

2. Is Chinatown safe to visit?

Chinatown is a safe neighborhood to visit during the day. However, like any other city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and belongings. It is also recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to take a taxi or ride-sharing service instead.

3. What is the best time to visit Chinatown?

The best time to visit Chinatown is during the Lunar New Year, which falls between January and February. The neighborhood comes alive with colorful decorations, dragon dance performances, and food festivals. It is a great time to experience the culture and traditions of the Chinese community.

4. Are there vegetarian options in Chinatown?

Yes, there are many vegetarian options in Chinatown. Some popular dishes include steamed buns, vegetable dumplings, stir-fried vegetables, and tofu dishes. It is important to ask the restaurant staff about the ingredients and cooking methods to ensure that they are vegetarian-friendly.

5. What is the best way to explore Chinatown?

The best way to explore Chinatown is on foot. The neighborhood is compact and easy to navigate, with many shops and restaurants lined up on the streets. You can also join a walking tour or food tour to learn more about the history and culture of the area.

6. How much money should I bring to Chinatown?

It depends on your budget and what you plan to do in Chinatown. Most restaurants and shops are affordable, with prices ranging from $5 to $20 per meal or item. It is recommended to bring cash as some places do not accept credit cards.

7. What is the dress code for Chinatown restaurants?

There is no specific dress code for Chinatown restaurants. However, it is recommended to dress comfortably and casually as most places have a relaxed atmosphere. It is also important to wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.

Conclusion

We hope this article has given you a taste of the best food in Chinatown New York. Whether you are a local or a tourist, there is always something new to discover in this vibrant neighborhood. From the iconic dumplings at Nom Wah Tea Parlor to the hidden gem of Wah Fung No. 1 Fast Food, there is a dish for every palate. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your chopsticks and explore the culinary delights of Chinatown.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!

Disclaimer

The information in this article is based on our personal experience and research. We have done our best to ensure the accuracy of the information. However, we cannot guarantee that all the information is complete, accurate, and up-to-date. We are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, damages, or injuries that may result from the use of this information. Please use your own judgment and discretion when following any of the recommendations in this article.