If you’re a lover of authentic Chinese cuisine, you simply can’t miss out on dim sum in New York Chinatown. This traditional Cantonese meal, consisting of small plates of savory and sweet dishes, has become a popular brunch and lunch option for locals and tourists alike.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the must-try spots for dim sum in New York Chinatown. From historic institutions to hidden gems and modern twists on classic dishes, there’s something for every dim sum enthusiast.
Key Takeaways
- Dim sum in New York Chinatown offers a unique and authentic Chinese dining experience.
- There is a diverse range of dim sum spots in Chinatown, offering everything from traditional dishes to modern twists on classic favorites.
- Exploring these must-try spots is a must for any food lover visiting New York City.
Exploring the Iconic Joe’s Shanghai
If you’re on the hunt for the best dim sum in New York Chinatown, Joe’s Shanghai is a must-visit spot. This iconic restaurant has been serving up delicious and authentic dim sum dishes for over two decades, and its reputation continues to flourish.
One of the standout dishes at Joe’s Shanghai is their famous soup dumplings. These delicate and flavorful dumplings are filled with hot soup and a delicious pork filling, making for a truly unique and satisfying dining experience. Other must-try dishes include their shrimp and snow pea leaf dumplings, pan-fried pork buns, and scallion pancakes.
In addition to their exceptional food, Joe’s Shanghai also offers a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering with friends and family. The dining room is spacious and festive, with colorful lanterns and decorations hanging from the ceiling.
If you’re looking to experience some of the best dim sum in New York, make sure to add Joe’s Shanghai to your list. With its reputation for quality and authenticity, it’s a spot that you won’t want to miss.
House of Joy: A Hidden Gem for Dim Sum Lovers
If you’re searching for a hidden gem for delicious authentic dim sum, House of Joy should be on your list of must-try spots. Tucked away on Pell Street, this restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing dim sum feast.
House of Joy’s dim sum menu boasts a wide variety of classic and creative dishes, including fan-favorites like pork siu mai and shrimp dumplings. But what sets them apart is their unique takes on traditional dishes, such as their crispy lobster roll and truffle shiitake dumplings.
For those who prefer to enjoy dim sum in the comfort of their own homes, House of Joy also offers delivery options. You can indulge in their mouth-watering dim sum delights without leaving the house!
“Delicious food and fantastic service. The staff are very welcoming and attentive. I cannot recommend this place enough!” – Yelp Review
Dim Sum Palace: A Favorite Among Locals
If you’re looking for a top dim sum spot in New York Chinatown, look no further than Dim Sum Palace. This restaurant has earned a reputation as a go-to destination for delicious dim sum brunches.
With a vast menu featuring all the classic dim sum dishes and some unique options, Dim Sum Palace offers a fantastic culinary experience for any dim sum lover. Their steamed shrimp dumplings and pork buns are particularly notable, but be sure to try their crispy taro puffs and steamed spare ribs as well.
But what sets Dim Sum Palace apart from other dim sum spots in Chinatown is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The friendly staff make you feel right at home, and the decor is simple but cozy. It’s no wonder why locals keep coming back for more.
Stop by Dim Sum Palace for a memorable dim sum experience that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Golden Unicorn: The Grandeur of Dim Sum
If you’re looking for a grand and elegant dining experience, look no further than Golden Unicorn. This iconic restaurant is known for its luxurious atmosphere and extensive dim sum menu, offering a dining experience fit for royalty.
Step into the grandeur of the dining room, with its gold accents and chandeliers, and prepare to indulge in a feast of traditional and unique dim sum dishes. From steamed pork buns to shrimp dumplings to egg custard tarts, Golden Unicorn’s menu has something for every dim sum lover.
One standout dish is their crispy fried turnip cake, made with radish and dried shrimp for a unique texture and savory flavor. Pair it with a pot of hot tea and enjoy the opulent ambiance of Golden Unicorn.
Be sure to arrive early on weekends, as the restaurant can get quite busy. But trust us, the wait is worth it for the grandeur of Golden Unicorn.
Jing Fong Restaurant: A Dim Sum Institution
If you’re looking for a quintessential dim sum experience in New York Chinatown, Jing Fong Restaurant is not to be missed. With its bustling atmosphere and vast selection of traditional dim sum dishes, this establishment has become a beloved institution among locals and tourists alike.
The restaurant occupies an entire floor of a building, and the sheer size of the dining room is impressive. The hall is usually packed with diners, adding to the lively and bustling atmosphere. Jing Fong is also known for its pushcart-style dim sum service, which is a tradition that has been carried on for decades.
As you peruse the dim sum offerings at Jing Fong, you’ll find a variety of dishes ranging from classic favorites like shrimp dumplings and pork buns to more unique offerings like seafood rice noodle rolls and crispy taro cakes. The quality of the dim sum is consistently high, and the service is efficient and friendly.
One of the standout dishes at Jing Fong is their crispy deep-fried sesame balls, which are stuffed with sweet lotus paste. These addictive treats are a must-try for any dim sum lover.
“If you’re looking for a quintessential dim sum experience in New York Chinatown, Jing Fong Restaurant is not to be missed.”
Overall, Jing Fong Restaurant is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking an authentic dim sum experience in New York City. With its bustling atmosphere, vast selection of dishes, and impeccable service, it’s no wonder this establishment has become a beloved tradition in the city’s Chinatown.
Mei Lai Wah Bakery: Authentic Dim Sum Delights
If you’re looking for authentic and delicious dim sum in New York Chinatown, look no further than Mei Lai Wah Bakery. This beloved establishment has been serving up traditional dim sum delights for over 50 years, earning a reputation as one of the best spots in the neighborhood.
One of the highlights of Mei Lai Wah is their selection of baked goods, including their famous pork buns. These fluffy buns are filled with savory barbecue pork and are a must-try for any dim sum lover.
But Mei Lai Wah offers much more than just baked goods. Their menu includes a range of classic dim sum dishes, from steamed shrimp dumplings to pan-fried turnip cakes. For those looking for a unique twist, they also offer specialty items like their sesame balls filled with red bean paste.
What makes Mei Lai Wah truly special is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Each dish at this bakery is prepared with care and attention to detail, ensuring a truly authentic dim sum experience.
“Mei Lai Wah Bakery is known for their traditional dim sum delights. Their menu includes a range of classic dim sum dishes, from steamed shrimp dumplings to pan-fried turnip cakes.”
In addition to their dine-in service, Mei Lai Wah offers dim sum delivery for those who prefer to enjoy their delicious dishes at home. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Mei Lai Wah Bakery is a must-try spot for any dim sum lover visiting New York Chinatown.
Nom Wah Tea Parlor: A Dim Sum Legacy
For almost 100 years, Nom Wah Tea Parlor has been a staple in New York Chinatown, serving up delicious and authentic dim sum to generations of diners. Established in 1920, Nom Wah is one of the oldest dim sum establishments in the city and has remained a popular destination ever since.
The restaurant is known for its traditional dim sum offerings, with highlights including steamed pork buns, shrimp dumplings, and turnip cakes. Nom Wah also offers more unique items such as their famous egg and scallion pancake and crispy eggplant stuffed with shrimp paste.
Beyond the food, Nom Wah is also a cultural institution, with a rich history and legacy in the neighborhood. The restaurant has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and even hosted an art exhibit in 2015 celebrating its history and cultural significance.
While Nom Wah has expanded in recent years with new locations throughout the city, the original Chinatown location remains a must-visit for any dim sum enthusiast looking for a taste of history and tradition.
Dim Sum Go Go: A Modern Twist on Dim Sum
If you’re looking for a modern take on traditional dim sum dishes, Dim Sum Go Go is a must-visit spot in New York Chinatown. This trendy eatery offers a unique twist on classic dishes, using high-quality ingredients and innovative cooking techniques to create flavorful and satisfying bites.
One of the standout dishes at Dim Sum Go Go is their famous soup dumplings, which feature thin-skinned wrappers filled with savory broth and tender pork. These delicate and delicious dumplings are a customer favorite and must-try for any first-time visitor.
But Dim Sum Go Go’s menu extends far beyond just soup dumplings. Their creative selection of dishes includes steamed buns filled with pork belly, shrimp and scallop shumai, and a variety of vegetable dumplings for the plant-based crowd.
Not only is the food at Dim Sum Go Go top-notch, but the atmosphere is also trendy and inviting with a sleek and modern interior. And if you’re looking for a delicious dim sum brunch experience, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of dishes perfect for sharing with friends.
So next time you’re in New York Chinatown, don’t miss out on the modern and delicious dim sum experience at Dim Sum Go Go.
Mr. Bun: Steamed Bun Delights
For those who can’t get enough of steamed buns, Mr. Bun is a must-visit spot in New York Chinatown. Their creative and flavorful fillings are sure to impress, with options like pork belly, curry chicken, and vegetarian mushroom.
What sets Mr. Bun apart is their commitment to quality ingredients. Their buns are made fresh daily and are free of any preservatives or artificial flavors.
Don’t miss out on their signature dish, the bao zai fan, a rice bowl topped with your choice of steamed buns, meat, and vegetables.
With affordable prices and tasty options, Mr. Bun is a great spot for a quick lunch or casual dinner.
Royal Seafood Restaurant: Dim Sum Feast Fit for Royalty
If you’re looking for a grand and luxurious dim sum experience, look no further than Royal Seafood Restaurant. As one of the top dim sum spots in New York Chinatown, this establishment offers an extravagant dining experience fit for royalty.
The atmosphere is elegant and grand, with ornate decor and a spacious dining area. Guests are greeted with a warm welcome and seated at large, round tables perfect for sharing dim sum dishes with friends and family.
| Must-Try Dishes: | Golden Steamed Shrimp Dumplings |
|---|---|
| Black Truffle and Scallop Dumplings | |
| Roasted Pork Buns |
While Royal Seafood Restaurant is on the pricier side, the quality of their dim sum dishes justifies the cost. Each dish is carefully crafted and bursting with flavor, from the Golden Steamed Shrimp Dumplings to the Black Truffle and Scallop Dumplings.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-end dim sum experience, Royal Seafood Restaurant is not to be missed. Come for the grandeur, stay for the delicious and luxurious dishes.
Conclusion
Exploring the dim sum scene in New York Chinatown is a culinary adventure that any food enthusiast should embark on. From iconic establishments like Joe’s Shanghai and Golden Unicorn to hidden gems like House of Joy and Mr. Bun, there is a diverse range of options to satisfy any craving.
Whether you’re in the mood for traditional dim sum delights or modern twists on classic dishes, there is something for everyone in these must-try spots. And let’s not forget the cultural significance and history behind each establishment, adding an extra layer of richness to the dining experience.
So, grab a group of friends or venture out solo to indulge in the authentic flavors and experiences that New York Chinatown has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you.
You may also enjoy this story on shopping in Chinatown.
