Restaurants

10 Places To Eat In Chinatown New York City

One place, three meals: breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Gelso. Pic Credit to @acupofkeen.
Source : instagram

Chinatown is home to some of the best dim sum spots, dumpling houses, and karaoke bars. With the classic old restaurants standing alongside newcomers, the city is one of the exciting dining destinations.

You can find Japanese izakaya or black sesame at a brand-new dessert cafe, Malaysian French toast made with chocolate, and crispy Peking duck carved with a flourish. So, lets explore 10 must-visit places to eat in Chinatown NYC.

1. Kopitiam

Newly introduced dish, Yee Sang at Kopitiam in January 2023.
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Kopitiam serves as a daily gathering space introducing visitors to Nyonya cuisine, with a mix of Chinese and Malay flavors. It draws influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and the British.

No additives or artificial coloring are used, and hues are made fresh by sourcing ingredients from Malaysia or nearby markets.

Where: 151 East Broadway

2. La Contenta Oeste

Caesar Salad with Grilled Shrimp, new dish at La Contenta.
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La Contenta Oeste serves up a variety of traditional Mexican dishes. Guests can enjoy popular items such as La Contenta Nachos, Guacamole Tradicional, and Tacos de Carne Asada.

It is particularly favored for its evening service, reflecting a lively atmosphere during dinner hours. The menu also features Pollo en Mole Poblano and Hanger Steak a la Parrilla, and a selection of Mexican beverages.

Location: 102 Norfolk Street

3. East Village Pizza

Cheesy peperoni pizza at Eat Village Pizza.
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They offer a range of services to cater to your pizza cravings. They provide personalized attention to ensure the pizza experience.

They use the finest and freshest ingredients to create the pizzas, sourcing high-quality toppings, sauces, and cheeses to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.

Location: 145 1st Avenue

4. Gelso And Grand

Summer greens plate serves at Gelso and Grand
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Gelso and Grand offers an informal and inviting seating plan of the indoor, outdoor, and private dining room boasting modern and classic NY dining.

Their open kitchen and the menu options with a wood-fired oven emphasize their rustic authenticity.

Location: 186 Grand Street, Baxter Street & Centre Market PI

5. Nom Wah Tea Parlor

Nom Wah special dim sum with chicken feet. Picture captured by @ @carbzombie
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It is the first dim sum parlor in Chinatown since 1920 offering dim sum on demand all day.

They specialize in dumplings and dim sum options, highlighted by popular Shrimp Dumplings and Shanghainese Soup Dumplings. Guests also frequently enjoy the House Special Roast Pork Bun and Pan-Fried Noodle in Superior Soy Sauce.

Location: 13 Doyers Street

6. Burger & Lobster

Lobster served with signature lemon and garlic butter, captured by @eatingthingsinnewyork.
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This restaurant serves prime burgers and wild, fresh Atlantic lobsters, and aged beef burgers with a tempting cocktail list.

The restaurant and bar look nice and is a welcoming environment. Food is tasty and you can enjoy tasty cocktails and small bites for an even more delicious price.

Address: 39 West 19th Street 

7. Hop Kee

Table fully occupied with traditional Cantonese American feast. Pic credit: @danielmancini
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Hop Kee Chinese restaurant offers a diverse menu of authentic Chinese cuisine, at affordable prices. It offers a convenient dining option for those seeking a late-night meal.

It is among the earliest popular restaurants in Chinatown where you can have downstairs dining with some delicious Cantonese food drawing out locals and gourmands alike.

Address: 21 Mott Street, Chatham Square, and Mosco Street

8. Mei Lai Wah

Pan Fried Rice Noodles at Mei Lai Wah.
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It is a Chinese dim sum spot that makes some of the best pork buns in the city. These buns come in a few varieties, including steamed, baked, and even with one with chicken and egg.

You can also get a full meal that involves some pretty good rice rolls and fried rice dishes with eggs, vegetarian and sausage mixed in.

Address: 62 Bayard St, New York

9. Joe's Shanghai

Another famous dish: Crispy Pepper Duck at the Joe's.
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Joe's Shanghai was founded by owner-chef, Joe Si, who specializes in traditional Shanghainese cuisine. They have been serving soup dumplings for more than 20 years of service.

They strive to continue promoting and preserving the legendary Shanghainese cuisine. Some popular dishes include Shanghai Noodle Soup, Sesame Chicken, Shanghai Fried Rice, Kung Pao Chicken, and Hongkong Style Hot and Sour Soup.

Address: 46 Bowery Street

10. Nha Trang One

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The restaurant crafts an inviting space where you can savor the warmth of a home-cooked meal, providing the essence of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

The popular dishes among diners include  "Pho đặc Biệt Special Rice Noodle Soup," "Cha Gio," which are six crispy rolls, and "Com Bo Luc Lac," a flavorful beef cubes over rice dish. They also serve options like Pho dac Biet and Pho chin.

Where: 87 Baxter Street