everything we ate at Chinatown nyc
Let’s go on a food crawl with us in Chinatown! Make sure to bring CASH 💰. A lot of the small shops & street vendors only accept cash.
📍 Shanghai 21 on 21 Mott St - We started the day with fresh soup dumplings at Shanghai 21. There was a line before the restaurant was even open. It offered a variety of classic Shanghainese dishes. We also got their scallion pancakes and pan fried dumplings (生煎包). We didn’t get it this time, but I highly recommend the Shanghai stir fry noodles.
📍 Pell & Bowery St - We walked around Chinatown & continued to snack on any street snacks we saw. I saw the egg waffles （雞蛋仔） cart, and I knew I had to get it for old time’s sake. I still remember it used to be $1 for a bag of 20 pieces when I was a kid. It’s still pretty cheap. We got a half portion with peanut butter & condensed milk for $3.50. It’s okay, but the taste of nostalgia slaps. They take cash and Venmo.
📍 46 Mott St - This tofu pudding （豆腐花）was sooo SILKY! I’m not sure if this place is famous, but if it’s not, it’s sooo underrated. I’ve been to other well-known tofu pudding places in Chinatown, but idt they can beat this one in terms of silkiness and price. For a pint, it’s only $3! This spot also sells soy milk, herbal tea and light snacks, such as zongzi.
📍 Yin Ji Chang Fen - My purpose coming to Chinatown was to eat cheong fun, and we were almost too full. My boyfriend made sure it happened. We walked in around 1-2pm and snatched the last seat. I saw a sign saying $10 minimum (I’m not sure if it’s per person or table). We were so full, so we only got one rice roll to share (it’s about $8, and $11 after tax & tip). I guess it’s okay! I always see a line here, but it’s my first time coming here. The rice rolls were super thin (good texture), and they’re generously stuffed with fillings. Good value! It’s another cash only place.
📍 43 Bayard Street for Put Chai Ko & Chinese desserts - Put Chai Ko is another one of my favorite childhood snacks, so I got 4 for $5 to share with my boyfriend who hasn’t had it before. This spot had many novel flavors along with the classics, such as mango, pineapple, osmanthus and brown sugar. The classic white & brown sugar ones with red beans 🫘 are my faves! We got a coconut pandan ko/kueh, and it’s good! Good flavors & textures :)
What are your favorite Chinatown eats?
Chinatown in New York City is famous for its vibrant food scene, showcasing a variety of authentic Chinese dishes that cater to every palate. In addition to must-try soup dumplings at Shanghai 21, be sure to stop by the iconic egg waffle stands, a nostalgic treat for many. Egg waffles, a popular street snack, are characterized by their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, often served with toppings such as peanut butter and condensed milk, making them a delightful choice for dessert or a sweet snack. Another gem in Chinatown is the silky tofu pudding, which has gained immense popularity among locals and visitors alike. This dish can be enjoyed plain or with toppings like sweet syrup and toppings, highlighting the versatility of tofu in desserts. Many agree that exploring different pudding shops can lead you to the silkiest version in the area—perfect to cool down on a warm day. Rice rolls, such as those from Yin Ji Chang Fen, are another quintessential dish to indulge in. These wide rice noodles, often filled with shrimp, beef, or vegetables, are served with a soy-based sauce, making them a savory, satisfying dish perfect for lunch. Finally, don't miss sampling Put Chai Ko, a traditional dessert made with rice flour, typically filled with flavors like red bean or brown sugar. This dessert pairs well with herbal tea, commonly found in various tea shops around Chinatown. Chinatown is not just about the food; it's a cultural experience that offers a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine. Make sure to bring cash, as many eateries operate on cash-only policies, and prepare for a memorable culinary adventure!