10 Irresistible Desserts in Chinatown, NYC (Foodie Guide)

Payment Cash and Venmo only

The Chinatown Ice Cream Factory is a family-owned ice cream shop that’s been serving locals since 1978 (more than 40 years!). Known for a unique offering of ice cream flavors, adventurous palates can indulge in flavors like black sesame, match, lychee, and durian. This definitely one of the best desserts in Chinatown for ice cream enthusiasts. Take Note. Chinatown Ice Cream Factory accepts cash and Venmo (no credit cards).

Payment Card, cash, and tap-to-pay

Alimama became a viral sensation because of their extravagant over-the-top iced drinks and cream puffs. Thankfully, this grab-and-go cafe lives up to the hype.

The demand for signature treats such as cream puffs and mochi donuts often leads to long lines, but the self-service kiosks make ordering a breeze. Don’t sleep on the black milk tea cream puffs, really goodly airy, these treats are undoubtedly among the best desserts Chinatown offers.

Payment Cash-only

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth without breaking the bank? Head to Harpers Bread House for. With treats ranging from $2 to $5, you can’t go wrong.

Funny enough, the bakery’s specialty lies in onigiri (Japanese rice balls) and Portuguese egg tarts, but it works! If you haven’t had Portuguese egg tarts before, I highly recommend!The flaky pastry is filled with a creamy custard that’s baked to perfection before being topped with a dash of cinnamon. So good!

Payment Card (minimum $5 spend), cash, and tap-to-pay accepted

Ferdnando Ponce has been churning out Hong Kong-styled sponge cakes since 1992 and doesn’t show signs of slowing any time soon. Ponce opened his shop in 2020 and now sells up to 1,500 sponge cakes a day! True to form, these cakes are light, airy, and downright delicious. Oh, and they’re a mere $2 a pop. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more satisfying selection of desserts in Chinatown at this price.

NYC’s dessert scene is proof that this city takes its sweet tooth very seriously.

Payment Card, cash, and tap-to-pay accepted

Taiyaki is famous for their unique fish-shaped pastry filled with delicious flavors like red bean paste and custard. A perfect blend of crispy exterior. Taiyaki also ranks among the top dessert spots in NYC for kids, who can resist a fish shaped treat?!

Payment Card, cash, and tap-to-pay accepted

The former head chef of Breads Bakery (an award-winning NYC bakery), opened Michaeli Bakery in 2019. He sells traditional Israeli baked goods like challah, burekas, rugelach, along with bakery classics like croissants.

Vegan and gluten-free options are also available, like a popular vegan babka. While all of those options are great, some of the best desserts in Chinatown are the donuts churned out of this bakery. Known as sufganiyah, the Israeli donuts have a cult-like following for a reason.

Flavors chance often enough to keep things exciting. If they’re not sold out, I highly recommend ordering the strawberry-filled sufganiyah, the tartness of the jam is lovely with the lightness of the dough.

Payment Card, cash, and tap-to-pay accepted

Mango Mango specializes in fresh mango desserts like ice cream, pastries and a layered crepe cake. The menu is extensive, offering a variety of irresistible options. Originally from Hong Kong, the company landed in New York City in 2013. Their signature mango Mille crepe cake is a highlight, featuring layers of delicate crepes and creamy mango filling, perfectly balancing tanginess and sweetness. Consider it a must-try dessert in Chinatown.

Payment Cash-only

Taipan Bakery is a well-known bakery, popular for offering a delicious array of Asian pastries and baked goods. With roots tracing back to Hong Kong, Taipan Bakery has garnered a reputation for high-quality treats.

From traditional Chinese buns to modern desserts, their menu includes favorites like pineapple buns, egg tarts, and BBQ pork buns. Among their standout desserts are the coconut cream buns and egg tarts. The cream buns boast soft bread and a fluffy cream filling, creating an airy delight that’s a must-try in Chinatown’s dessert scene.