Discover the varied food scene in NYC Chinatown with this part 2 of a compilation of eateries that will leave your belly and your heart full! From lively dim sum spots to secret vegetarian favorites, this list provides options for all palates and events. Dive into the robust tastes of Shanghai dishes, enjoy the sweet and spicy treats of Sichuan, or refresh yourself with an impressive Korean bingsoo. So, pick up your chopsticks and prepare for an extraordinary Chinatown journey!
Check out PART 1 here for more awesome Chinatown delights!
11. Jing Fong Restaurant
A delicious dim sum brunch at Jing Fong Restaurant in Chinatown, NYC
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 Kosher Vegetarian Restaurant | 77 Mulberry St | Chinatown | Manhattan
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
Division Restaurant/Shanghai House | 21 Division St | Chinatown | Manhattan
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. Mabu Cafe
Mabu Cafe, one of the best cafes in Chinatown, NYC
Mabu 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, Mabu Cafe promises an Instagram-worthy meal that’s as adorable as it is delicious.
15. Famous Sichuan
Chong qing chicken, Famous Sichuan Restaurant
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 2 am. 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
Chinese char siu pork chow mein meal with stir-fried noodles and vegetables
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
Korean shaved ice dessert with sweet toppings, Strawberry Bingsoo or Bingsu
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
A Chinese hot pot filled with mouth-watering ingredients
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 in Chinatown, NYC
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
Nasi Lemak is a rice dish infused with coconut milk. Served with sambal, fried anchovies, fried peanuts, boiled eggs, and fresh cucumber
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 World of Flavors in Chinatown
Chinatown presents a gastronomic journey that’s unparalleled. Dive into the lively atmosphere, ranging from piping hot dim sum at Jing Fong to the spicy delights of Famous Sichuan’s mapo tofu. Vegans will discover a sanctuary at Buddha Bodai, and those in search of Korean cuisine can refresh themselves with a grand bingsoo at Sweet Moment. Each morsel leads to an exploration of varied Asian tastes, turning Chinatown into a haven for food enthusiasts.
