Chinatown in New York City is a vibrant hub known for its rich cultural history and exceptional culinary offerings. It is the go-to destination for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Chinese cuisine, ranging from traditional dishes to innovative culinary creations. This guide outlines the best restaurants in Chinatown NYC, ensuring that you experience the full flavor of this iconic neighborhood.
1. Golden Steamer
Golden Steamer | 143A Mott St | Chinatown
Golden Steamer stands out for its traditional steamed buns, a staple in Chinese breakfast and snack culture. Since its opening in 2009, this bakery has become a favorite for its affordable and delicious buns. Flavors like pumpkin, salted egg yolk, and barbecued pork draw long lines, especially during morning hours.
The ambiance is simple and focuses on the food, offering a warm, steaming bun straight out of the steamer for a taste of authentic Chinatown right in the palm of your hand. At just $1.50 each, these buns offer a bite of luxury without the hefty price tag.
2. Joe’s Shanghai
Joe’s Shanghai in Chinatown, Manhattan
Joe’s Shanghai is synonymous with soup dumplings. This restaurant introduced the delights of Shanghai-style xiao long bao to New York City in the 1990s and remains a culinary landmark. The dumplings, filled with rich broth and tender meat, are a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Chinatown.
The space is large and well-suited for groups, making it an ideal spot for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The lively atmosphere adds to the authentic dining experience, ensuring that every visit is memorable.
3. Spicy Village
Chinatown: Spicy Village – Big Plate Chicken
Spicy Village, known for its Henan-style comfort food, is a modest establishment that packs a flavorful punch with dishes like the famous “big tray chicken”. This hearty dish, loaded with chicken, potatoes, and spices over hand-pulled noodles, is perfect for sharing and is a testament to the rustic, homestyle Chinese cooking.
The restaurant’s no-frills decor allows the food to shine, creating an intimate dining experience that focuses on the quality and flavors of the meal. It is a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a genuine taste of Chinatown.
4. Deluxe Green Bo
Deluxe Green Bo | 66 Bayard St | Chinatown
A stalwart of Shanghainese cuisine, Deluxe Green Bo is renowned for its authentic dishes like xiao long bao and scallion pancakes. Despite its modest exterior, the food here is crafted with care, offering flavors that transport diners straight to Shanghai.
The noodles and dumplings are made in-house, ensuring each dish serves a fresh and traditional taste. Deluxe Green Bo provides a culinary journey through China’s rich gastronomic landscape, right in the heart of New York’s Chinatown.
5. Taiwan Pork Chop House
Pork Chop Rice with noodles, egg, lime, and salad served in a bowl
At Taiwan Pork Chop House, diners can enjoy Taiwanese specialties that are both flavorful and hearty. The restaurant is famous for its namesake pork chops, marinated and fried to perfection, providing a crispy yet tender eating experience.
This spot combines quality ingredients with authentic Taiwanese cooking techniques to deliver meals that satisfy comfort food cravings. The casual setting and friendly service make it a welcoming place for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.
6. King’s Kitchen
Cantonese style cooking of clay pot rice with waxed meats
King’s Kitchen offers a blend of Cantonese culinary traditions with a modern twist. The restaurant is particularly noted for its clay pot rice and barbecued meats. Each dish is meticulously prepared, highlighting the flavors that have made Cantonese cuisine a global favorite.
The interior design combines elegance with a touch of tradition, making it a comfortable and stylish venue for any dining occasion. Whether it is a family dinner or a romantic evening, King’s Kitchen promises an unforgettable culinary experience.
7. House of Joy
Delicious Dimsum at the House of Joy, Chinatown, NYC
House of Joy is renowned for its dim sum served via traditional carts. As you select from a variety of steamed buns, dumplings, and rice noodle rolls, the experience is as much a visual feast as a culinary one. This method adds an element of surprise and delight to the dining experience, perfect for those unfamiliar with the extensive options in dim sum.
The lively atmosphere and the chance to interact with the food carts make this restaurant a fun and engaging place for all ages. House of Joy is a cornerstone in Chinatown for those who enjoy the traditional dim sum experience.
8. Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles
Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles – Menu
Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles is an aptly named gem in the heart of Chinatown, where the art of noodle-making takes center stage. Diners can watch as chefs pull noodles by hand, a technique that results in textures that are both chewy and tender. The restaurant specializes in noodle soups and stir-fried noodle dishes, offering a robust flavor profile in every bowl.
The intimate setting of the restaurant, combined with the aroma of freshly prepared noodles, creates a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. This spot is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a quick yet satisfying meal in a setting that feels both rustic and authentic.
9. Jiang’s Kitchen
Xinjiang Roasted Whole Lamb at Jiang’s Kitchen, Chinatown NYC
Jiang’s Kitchen, known for its hotpot, offers a unique culinary experience with its Halal Chinese cuisine. This cozy eatery stands out in the East Village for its commitment to authentic flavors and halal ingredients, catering to a diverse clientele seeking delicious, culturally conscious dining options.
For travel groups comprising Muslim patrons, Jiang’s Kitchen offers an assortment of menu options ranging from noodles and soups to lamb ribs and chicken plates.
10. Nom Wah Tea Parlor
Nom Wah Tea Parlor in Chinatown, NYC
As one of the oldest tea houses in New York City, Nom Wah Tea Parlor holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and tourists. This iconic spot has been serving traditional Chinese tea and dim sum since the 1920s, offering a nostalgic taste of old New York alongside its delicious offerings. The tea selection is extensive, perfect for pairing with a variety of dim sum items from steamed buns to rice rolls.
The vintage charm of Nom Wah adds to its appeal, with retro decor and historic photos that transport diners back in time. It is a great place for those looking to enjoy a leisurely brunch or a late afternoon snack in a setting that feels like a step back in time.
A Taste of Chinatown
Chinatown NYC remains a vibrant culinary center where traditional flavors and innovative dishes coexist. The neighborhood’s array of dining options reflects its rich cultural tapestry and its ongoing evolution as a top destination for food lovers. Whether you are seeking a quick snack or a lavish meal, the best restaurants in Chinatown NYC offer something for every palate. Visit and indulge in a dining experience that will linger in your memory long after your meal has ended.
Check PART 2 here for more awesome Chinatown delights!
