New York Dearest
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The Best of New York · Eat · Chinatown

The best restaurants in Chinatown.

Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 19 places.

Chinatown was one of the first neighborhoods I fell in love with when I moved to New York. I remember wandering down Mott Street completely overwhelmed by the smells and the menus and having no idea where to start. Years later, I’ve eaten my way through enough Chinatown restaurants to finally feel confident telling you exactly where to go, whether you want perfect dumplings or the best Peking duck in the city.

For more on irresistible desserts Chinatown, see my guide to 10 Irresistible Desserts in Chinatown, NYC (Foodie Guide).

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide

Best restaurants in Chinatown, 2026

  1. Banh Mi SaigonRestaurant · ChinatownThe baguette is perfectly crisp, the BBQ pork is juicy.
  2. Hop KeeRestaurant · ChinatownOpened in 1968, it was one of Anthony Bourdain’s top-five NYC restaurants and was featured in Parts Unknown’s last episode (filmed just two months before his death).
  3. Jing FongRestaurant · ChinatownDespite downsizing in 2021 due to the pandemic, Jing Fong maintains its reputation for top-notch dim sum served on roving carts filled with fried, baked, and steamed treats.
  4. Mei Lai WahBakery · ChinatownThe buns pull apart effortlessly, and the meat is tender and juicy.
  5. Nom Wah Tea ParlorRestaurant · ChinatownChinatown’s unequivocal darling, Nom Wah Tea Parlor, is the oldest dim sum restaurant in NYC.
  6. Shu Jiao Fu ZhouRestaurant · ChinatownAn order of the pork and chive dumplings will cost you less than $3 (for 6) or $4 (for 10).
  7. Spicy VillageRestaurant · ChinatownSpicy Village’s ability to offer a genuine taste of Henan and its friendly service make it a cherished spot for those seeking one of the best restaurants in Chinatown.
  8. Tasty DumplingRestaurant · ChinatownThe pork & chive dumplings (available steamed or fried) are the best $2 you will ever spend.
  9. Wo HopRestaurant · ChinatownIn fact, Wo Hop was named an American Classic by the James Beard Foundation in 2022, a distinction awarded to restaurants that contribute to America’s food culture and heritage.
  10. Cha Chan TangRestaurant · ChinatownCha Chan Tang is a great spot to experience the unique fusion of flavors in Hong Kong’s food scene or grab a classic American meal in a fun and vibrant setting.
  11. House of JoyRestaurant · ChinatownThere’s often a wait (up to an hour long), but trust me, unlike your high school fling, this dim sum is worth waiting for.
  12. Joe's ShanghaiRestaurant · ChinatownJoe’s Shanghai’s success in delivering an authentic and memorable dining experience helped garner a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Chinatown.
  13. Mai Lai Wah Wonton NoodleRestaurant · ChinatownFolks are still happy to make the pilgrimage for the life-changing wonton noodle soup, which features expertly cooked noodles with flavorful broth and savory meat.
  14. May Wah Fast FoodRestaurant · ChinatownAt the same time, unbeatable prices (nothing over $10!) make it one of the most affordable restaurants in Chinatown.
  15. Ping'sRestaurant · ChinatownKnown for crispy skin and succulent meat, this really good dish is carved tableside.
  16. Wah Fung No. 1 Fast FoodRestaurant · ChinatownDespite the unassuming exterior, Wah Fung No. 1 Fast Food has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional meals at affordable prices.
  17. Wok WokRestaurant · ChinatownThe rest of the menu is a laundry list of Malaysian and Thai street food, with tantalizing classics like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow.
  18. Wu's Wonton KingRestaurant · ChinatownAlthough Wu’s is far from one of those places you only hear about from locals, the restaurant has manageable wait times compared to other popular restaurants in Chinatown.
  19. Yi Ji Shi Mo NoodleRestaurant · ChinatownOptions like marinated beef, fresh shrimp, and char siu pork are all tempting, and a side of curry fish balls is always a good idea.

On the map

Where they are.

All in Chinatown.

Chinatown

Best restaurants in Chinatown, 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 21 Chinatown Restaurants You Can’t Afford to Miss (Hungry Foodie Guide).