Where to Get the Best Dim Sum in Chinatown, NYC
Wondering where to get the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC? As one of the largest (and one of the oldest, according to WAMC Podcasts) Chinatowns in the U.S., which is home to the largest Chinese population in the Western Hemisphere, Manhattan’s Chinatown is the answer.
This colorful, cramped neighborhood consists of two square miles of shops, markets and restaurants dishing up some the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, to visitors and residents alike. In some ways, dim sum is Chinatown’s most distinctive product, so there’s plenty of it to go around.
Consisting of small dishes requiring extraordinary skill to make, anyone can appreciate a tradition like yum cha (otherwise known as going to dim sum), but knowing where to go for dim sum in Chinatown is the key to a successful experience that leaves your taste buds satisfied. By using this list of 18 places serving up real-deal dim sum as a guide, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC.
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18 Places With the Best Dim Sum in Chinatown, NYC
1. Nom Wah Tea Parlor
There is no shortage of fantastic dim sum hiding around every corner and on every stop of a food tour in NYC. But for the best of the best, this is a must-try. Established in 1920, Nom Wah Tea Parlor is the oldest dim sum haunt in the city and a go-to for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC.
The Vibe
With no carts, dim sum is checked off on a pad by the customer, and a waiter delivers the order. Bright yellow walls on the outside and a vintage sign make it hard to miss this buzzing eatery.
What to Order
Nom Wah has all the classics, but some of the must-try dishes include the Original “OG” Egg Roll, shrimp and snow pea leaf dumplings, turnip cakes and roast pork buns.
Nom Wah Tea Parlor | 13 Doyers St., New York, NY 10013 | $
2. Dim Sum Go Go
This wildly popular, no-frills dim sum joint serves up authentic Cantonese fare and some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Open seven days a week, the Michelin-rated Dim Sum Go Go prides itself on creating authentic flavors using ingredients of the best quality.
The Vibe
The restaurant’s décor features a combination of delicate whites and bold reds that’s a feast for the eyes. Indulging in dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, only gets better with lanterns hanging from the ceiling.
What to Order
With so many great options on the menu, you’ll want to avoid tough decisions and order the dim sum platter (seafood/meat or vegetarian) — an artful array of 10 of the best dumplings in NYC, wrapped in house-made crystal skin or wheat flour wrappers.
Dim Sum Go Go | 5 E. Broadway, New York, NY 10038 | $$
3. Royal Seafood
Even in the city’s dim sum center, Royal Seafood stands out for serving some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Its impressive menu also features standout rice and noodle dishes in meat, seafood and vegetable varieties.
The Vibe
With its traditional décor, this dim sum restaurant has impeccably mixed the classic and the modern for decades. Carpeted floors and well-lit ceilings make for lovely meals with friends or family.
What to Order
The carts speed back and forth, dispensing some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. The wonton soup, fresh tofu and pork ribs are also inviting, as is the fruit salad with lobster and snow pea leaves in broth.
Royal Seafood | 103 Mott St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
4. Ping’s
Since 1998, Ping’s has been turning out some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. It’s cash-only, but now there’s an ATM in the bodega at the end of the block. With an extensive menu of traditional dim sum, fresh seafood specialties and Hong Kong-style dishes, a visit to Ping’s promises to be an unforgettable affair that won’t have you waiting long to go back for more.
The Vibe
The entrance could be described as a juxtaposition of two signs — an older-looking bright yellow one and a more modern, silver-plated feature attached to dark grey tiles. The interior, with white tablecloths and red chairs, matches many of the other spots that serve dim sum in Chinatown, NYC.
What to Order
If you’re on the hunt for the best dim sum in New York City, try the steamed seafood shumai or the pork pot stickers. The half crispy fried chicken in garlic flavor is a great choice if you’re in the mood for something else.
Ping’s | 22 Mott St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
5. Golden Unicorn
Since 1989, the upscale Golden Unicorn has been serving dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, and has offered Cantonese dining at its glitziest. This popular eatery’s proud chefs start their day’s work early in the morning by preparing handmade dim sum and fresh ingredients for hungry customers.
The Vibe
Hostesses marshal brunch-goers via elevators to one of two distinctly extravagant floors: the first, displaying classic Chinese pomp with bold reds and golds; the second, all recessed lighting and damask drapes.
What to Order
Once seated, you’ll enjoy a broad range of the best dim sum in NYC, with favorites including the spare rib, siu mai and vegetarian crystal dumplings.
Golden Unicorn | 18 E. Broadway, New York, NY 10002 | $$
6. Jing Fong
With a fascinating history involving three generations of a family and a plumber who became a majority shareholder, Jing Fong has cemented its place as a go-to spot for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Having moved locations multiple times due to financial difficulties and the COVID-19 pandemic, the most recent 125-seater spot has quickly become one of the most popular dim sum restaurants in NYC.
The Vibe
Your senses will be overtaken by the sights and smells of fresh dumpling-filled steam baskets whizzing past you on carts among a décor that feels appropriately traditional, with white tablecloths, red chairs and bright lighting.
What to Order
New York, Chinatown, dim sum restaurants don’t get much better than this one, with delectable offerings like barbecue roast pork buns and shrimp and watercress dumplings. Finish off on a sweet note with egg tarts or coconut pudding.
Jing Fong | 202 Centre St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
7. Deluxe Green Bo
This cash-only hole-in-the-wall is a must for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. When visiting Deluxe Green Bo, you'll find that it's more than just a dim sum joint; the esteemed eatery has dedicated a section of its menu to the art of Shanghai dim sum.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at this dim sum restaurant in NYC is always bustling but never without smiles all around. The basic wooden furniture and white walls may not be as extravagant as you’d like, but the food never fails to be all the rage.
What to Order
The most popular selections include hot and spicy wontons with rich peanut sauce and hot chile oil, crisp scallion pancakes, and pork and crab mixed buns.
Deluxe Green Bo | 66 Bayard St., New York, NY 10013 | $
8. Buddha Bodai
Plant-based eaters will love Buddha Bodai, a kosher and vegetarian spot for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, committed to achieving and maintaining the delicate flavors of China's deep culinary history. Since 2004, it's proven that the dim sum experience can transcend any sort of diet restriction with flying colors.
The Vibe
The cozy couches and thriving plants, along with framed proverbs and art pieces, create a homely, casual setting, perfect for enjoying dim sum in NYC with friends and family.
What to Order
As far as the best dim sum in NYC goes, prepare to be amazed at how authentic the vegan barbecue pork bao tastes. After mains, your eyes will be drawn to the sweet sticky rice sesame balls, which is one of the most popular dessert options.
Buddha Bodai | 5 Mott St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
9. Joe’s Shanghai
Praised by food critics and locals, Joe’s Shanghai has been serving some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, since 1995. Diners here are greeted with comprehensive menus and a dish of black vinegar dipping sauce, as it’s practically a given that you’ll be ordering the famous pork and crab soup dumplings.
The Vibe
You'll find it's worth waiting in line for a table in the simply adorned space, where you can sit down to some of the best dumplings in NYC, surrounded by warm lighting and carpeted floors.
What to Order
You can’t visit one of the best restaurants for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, without trying more than just the appetizer recommended above. With various poultry, seafood, pork and vegetable options, standout picks include the braised duck, Chinese cabbage with dried shrimps and double-cooked pork.
Joe’s Shanghai | 46 Bowery St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
10. Vegetarian Dim Sum House
This vegetarian haven is one of the best places to get dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. If you’re of the mindset that restaurants that don’t serve meat offer limited menus, Vegetarian Dim Sum House will prove you wrong, with options like mock beef, chicken, pork and seafood, as well as an array of noodle-based specialties.
The Vibe
Simple décor, wooden furniture and upward lighting on the walls set the scene of a bright and comfortable space where the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, can be enjoyed for any occasion.
What to Order
You'll find an assortment of palate-pleasing mock-meat dishes, including crispy sesame "chicken" made with fried bean curd skin and Peking "spare ribs" made with yams smothered in peppery sauce. The fresh fruit shakes here are a great way to end your meal — try the kiwi, a fan favorite.
Vegetarian Dim Sum House | 24 Pell St., New York, NY 10013 | $
11. Steam
Fairly new to the city’s culinary scene, Steam is a popular spot to enjoy some of the best dim sum near Chinatown, NYC. The restaurant’s chefs have designed a well-rounded menu using fresh, high-quality ingredients, featuring favorites such as soups, salads and, of course, a wide variety of dumplings.
The Vibe
The white, exposed brick walls and wooden fixtures create a feeling of warmth and liveliness, which is also how you’ll feel when being served some of the best dim sum in NYC, here.
What to Order
The sweet red bean pancakes are a hit, as are the dumplings — chicken or shrimp being the most popular.
Steam | 470 Sixth Ave., New York, NY 10011 | $$
12. 456 New Shanghai
The original owner’s grandson is currently at the helm of 456 New Shanghai, a 1963-vintage Chinatown eatery that has long been a go-to for top-notch dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. From spicy chef’s specials to classic seafood gems, there’s something for everyone at this beloved spot.
The Vibe
Step under the paper lanterns hanging at the entrance into a quaint spot with good lighting and fascinating Asian décor pieces. Besides finding some of the most delicious dim sum in NYC, here, you’ll also be welcomed with warm smiles from the staff.
What to Order
Both tourists and locals come here for the steamed juicy buns with pork and crab meat, fried tiny buns (which aren’t so tiny after all) and other affordably-priced Shanghai-style dim sum in Manhattan, Chinatown.
456 New Shanghai | 69 Mott St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
13. Shanghai 21
Careful culinary craftsmanship is the focus of every meal served at Shanghai 21, which is why it’s known for serving up some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. This eatery offers all the classics as well as a beyond-the-basics dim sum menu.
The Vibe
Stepping away from the red and white of most of the other restaurants you might visit for dim sum in Manhattan, Chinatown, this eatery’s walls are covered in lime green. As you can tell, it’s one of the more fun restaurants in NYC, but don’t worry, the furniture you’ll sit on maintains the standard brown of wooden pieces.
What to Order
Be sure to try the black truffle soup dumplings with pork, steamed watercress and shrimp dumplings, and sweet red bean pancakes. The sesame rice balls in wine soup and old-style lo mein with scallion sauce are also popular NYC foods served up at this dim sum eatery.
Shanghai 21 | 21 Mott St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
14. Mee Sum Café
This overlooked Chinatown tea shop dates back to the 1960s. The well-established Mee Sum Café is an old-school spot for inexpensive dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, where diners can either sit at a counter, pick one of the few tables in the back of the parlor or simply grab a meal to go.
The Vibe
The size of this eatery and lack of eye-catching signage might make it easy to miss, but once you’re inside, you’ll be served swiftly with a warm smile.
What to Order
A leaf-wrapped bundle of sticky rice, known as joong, is a popular option. You’ll also want to try the wonton soup while you’re here. Why not pair these options for a filling meal?
Mee Sum Café | 26 Pell St., New York, NY 10013 | $
15. Tim Ho Wan
Formerly the world’s cheapest Michelin star restaurant, this spot isn’t exactly in Chinatown, but its East Village location is close enough. And Tim Ho Wan definitely deserves a spot on any list referencing the best dim sum in NYC, with options that include the use of pork, poultry, vegetables and fruit.
The Vibe
If you step out of Chinatown to enjoy dim sum in Manhattan, NYC, at either of Tim Ho Wan’s locations, you’ll be warmly welcomed into well-lit restaurants with wooden slats and elegant Asian-inspired décor.
What to Order
With dozens of dim sum plates available, there’s no wrong choice, but the delicate and perfectly constructed har gow, as well as steamed dumplings with shrimp and chives, are the must-try items.
Tim Ho Wan | Multiple Locations, NYC | $$
16. House of Joy
Never mind experiencing some of life’s other joys, wouldn’t you want to enjoy some of the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, at a place called House of Joy? Under new management since 2020, this delightful restaurant has expanded its seating capacity while also making room for private karaoke rooms.
The Vibe
This prominent eatery adorned with red tablecloths, chair covers and carpets is the perfect place for large families to enjoy a bite to eat.
What to Order
Start off with the vegetarian spring rolls before tucking into the beef balls. Finally, end the meal with a delectable serving of steamed golden cake.
House of Joy | 28 Pell St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
17. Dim Sum Palace
“Great food comes from great people” is the sentiment of the team over at Dim Sum Palace, and that’s exactly why it’s become one of the most frequented spots for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC.
The Vibe
An old-world but classy atmosphere is felt with the surroundings of face brick walls, black chairs and exquisite pieces of art.
What to Order
The chicken corn soup makes for a great appetizer, but the main star of the show is the chef’s signature dish of Hong Kong-style pan-fried steak.
Dim Sum Palace | 27 Division St., New York, NY 10002 | $$
18. Yin Ji Chang Fen
The renowned chain of Yin Ji Chang Fen restaurants dates back to the 1950s, so you can imagine what time-honoured culinary traditions have been passed down. To this day, it’s still one of the most relaxed, beloved spots to enjoy some of the tastiest dim sum in Chinatown, NYC.
The Vibe
Picture a lively spot with glass doors that let in plenty of light, wooden floors and face brick walls — some might say it’s the perfect place to enjoy dim sum in Chinatown, NYC.
What to Order
Two of the most popular items that are absolute must-tries are the peanut sauce rice noodle roll and the egg rice noodle roll. A Hong Kong-style milk tea is a refreshing beverage that goes down well with either food orders.
Yin Ji Chang Fen | 91 Bayard St., New York, NY 10013 | $$
More Culinary Experiences in NYC
Eating at any of the most renowned spots for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, can be a memorable experience, but what if there was a way to learn from the best minds in the city’s culinary world? That’s exactly what you’ll get when booking cooking classes in NYC. Not only will you improve upon your cooking skills while learning a trick or three along the way, but you’ll have loads of fun doing it, too.
More specifically, Chinese cooking classes in NYC may be just what you’re looking for to level up your Asian-inspired meals. Wouldn’t it be great to have first-hand experience of cooking the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC? That’s just what the city’s willing and experienced gourmet artists are ready to help you do.
Another way to enjoy restaurant-quality food is by booking private chefs in NYC. Maybe you’ve got a large gathering on the horizon? Perhaps you’d like to treat your better half for your anniversary? No matter what it’s for, this memorable experience allows you the opportunity to nosh flavorful meals prepared by experienced chefs in the comfort of your own home. Plus, they’ll take care of the preparations before and the cleaning up afterward.
Quite possibly the best version of brunch that exists, dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, has proven to satisfy cravings for both good food and good company. Whether you’re a traditionalist or a modernist, a vegan or a carnivore, you can check eating dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, off your bucket list at any of these places or by booking a food tour in NYC!
For even more ways to explore exciting cuisine, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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