City Guides

19 Best Spots for Dim Sum in Chinatown NYC in 2024

by: Christine Dayton

Last Updated on Nov 14th 2024

Dim Sum in Chinatown, NYC, is a fantastic choice for a meal before a Broadway show or on a day of adventuring. Plenty of locations serve this popular food and there are several variations to choose from. Selecting the best of them is quite a challenge.

Where can you find the best dim sum in Chinatown, NYC? Does Chinatown offer the best dim sum in NYC? In this article, we will attempt to answer these questions and others by providing you with plenty of options for enjoying dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Keep reading to learn more.

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Is NYC Chinatown Worth It?

Cooking classes in NYC — *Cooking classes in Chinatown (via Classpop!)*

When visiting New York City, a trip to Chinatown is absolutely worth your time. It offers a vibrant experience that blends rich cultural history with modern urban life.

Walking through its bustling streets unearths a treasure trove of authentic Chinese cuisine, from authentic Chinese dim sum in Chinatown NYC to hand-pulled noodles. Unique shops sell everything from exotic spices to traditional herbal medicines.

It's is also a great place to find cooking classes in NYC, where expert chefs teach you how to prepare various Chinese foods. Soon you'll be making you favourite meals in the comfort of your own home!

The neighborhood is also home to fascinating cultural landmarks like the Museum of Chinese in America, which provides insight into the significance of Chinese immigrants in the United States. That's why we'd also recommend taking a few photography classes in NYC, so that you can capture all the odd and beautiful places of the city.

Whether you are there to savor the noodles and dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, explore the markets or take in the atmosphere, spend a little time here and you will come to understand why Chinatown NYC is famous and what people love about it.

Best Dim Sum in Chinatown NYC

1. Jing Fong

Jing Fong Restaurant for Dim Sum in Chinatown NYC — *Jing Fong Restaurant (via Jing Fong)*

Jing Fong is among the most popular spots for ordering Chinese dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. The dining hall includes lovely architectural details like ornate chandeliers. It has a lively atmosphere.

A visit here transports diners to Hong Kong and serves dim sum the traditional way—by roving carts. Part of the fun is seeing and selecting your dishes. The shrimp dumplings (har gow) are plump and juicy, while the roast pork buns (cha siu bao) perfectly balance sweet and savory.

They are two of the top picks at this popular establishment for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Reservations are not required, but the dining room is small, so arrive early to find a seat.

2. Nom Wah Tea Parlor

What is the famous street in Chinatown, NYC, everyone wants to visit? It is undeniably Mott Street. Just a stone's throw away, you will find Nom Wah Tea Parlor, the oldest parlor serving dim sum in Chinatown, NYC.

The Tea Parlor has been in business since 1920. The vintage décor's retro booths and intricate tin ceiling add to the nostalgic charm. Nom Wah combines tradition with a modern twist.

Here, you will find classic dim sum in Chinatown, NYC and a few twists on the popular dish. The original egg roll is a signature dish with a crisp outer shell stuffed with fresh produce and high-quality meat fillings.

Be sure to try the pork and shrimp siu mai, a timeless favorite. Some ask if Nom Wah Tea Parlor is a Chinatown, NYC cash-only establishment. The answer is yes, so plan accordingly when you visit.

3. Shanghai 21

While not a traditional dim sum house, Shanghai 21 offers a menu that includes some of the best soup dumplings (xiao long bao) and dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. With so much to offer, this menu will also appeal to members of your party who might typically prefer the Korean BBQ in NYC.

The restaurant always provides friendly, efficient service and consistently delicious food, making it a great spot for a quick lunch that includes dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Items to try on the menu include the soup dumplings, with a delicate wrapper and a savory, broth-filled center.

The pan-fried pork buns are savory and soft and are another popular choice.

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4. Ping’s Seafood

Ping’s Seafood is a favorite spot for seafood-focused dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. The restaurant has a relaxed, unpretentious vibe. The chefs emphasize the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients and Cantonese cuisine.

A meal here may be good for your health, as a recent article on Healthline pointed to 11 health benefits of eating fish and seafood. Taste the scallop dumplings featuring tender scallops in a light, translucent wrapper.

The crab meat dumplings are equally impressive, bursting with vibrant, savory flavors. For those who prefer something other than dim sum, try the Sichuan spiced Korean fried chicken, one of NYC’s finest dishes, if you enjoy flavor and spice.

5. Dim Sum Go Go

Dumplings at Dim Sum Go Go — *Dim Sum Go Go (via Dim Sum Go Go)*

Dim Sum Go Go is known for its modern approach to dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. The menu is vibrantly illustrated, making it easy for newcomers to navigate the dishes.

Dim Sum Go Go remains committed to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. It is one of the most popular vegan restaurants in NYC and a lovely spot for a casual date idea in NYC.

The chive and shrimp dumplings are delicate and aromatic, while the vegan turnip cakes have a light and crispy exterior.

6. Wu’s Wonton King

If you are searching for something a bit different than the best burger in NYC, Wu’s Wonton King is the place to find it. This establishment is renowned for its excellent wonton dumplings, but its dim sum offerings are equally impressive.

The casual, no-frills setting lets the dumplings and dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, take center stage. The diverse menu highlights both traditional and creative dim sum dishes.

In addition to dim sum, try the shrimp wontons with their thin wrappers and succulent filling. The steamed chicken feet are a delicacy that adventurous eaters will appreciate.

7. 88 Palace

For dim sum in Chinatown NYC, take an escalator ride up and try 88 Palace. This establishment is located inside a smaller shopping mall and might seem unassuming, but it is a hidden gem for those who want to sample tasty dim sum in Chinatown NYC.

The restaurant offers various dishes, all served from traditional dim sum carts. The vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu make it popular for families and large groups.

The crispy, light taro puffs or the steamed pork ribs with black beans. Both are rich and flavorful.

8. Oriental Garden

Oriental Garden is a go-to spot for anyone craving fresh seafood. This establishment offers some of the most delicious seafood dim sum in Chinatown NYC.

Step inside to find a sleek, modern interior, attentive, friendly service and consistently high-quality food. The steamed shrimp dumplings are a must-try item, fresh and delicate. For a luxurious splurge item, sample the lobster dumplings.

9. Golden Unicorn

Golden Unicorn Dim Sum in Chinatown NYC — *Signature dishes (via Golden Unicorn)*

Golden Unicorn is celebrated for its elegant ambiance and for consistently high-quality dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Located on the upper floors of a building, the restaurant offers stunning views and this dim sum Chinatown, NYC’s escalator ride is part of the experience.

The dim sum here is meticulously crafted, focusing on fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. The steamed rice rolls with fresh-from-the-sea shrimp are silky smooth and the egg tarts (dan tat) are flaky with a sweet custard filling.

To enjoy Golden Unicorn dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, reservations are highly recommended. The restaurant gets busy, especially on weekends. A private room is available for larger gatherings, such as a special birthday dinner in NYC.

10. Royal Seafood

Royal Seafood is a classic destination for dim sum in Chinatown NYC, offering guests a traditional dining experience with carts laden with various dishes. The large dining hall is often quite busy, creating a lively ambiance.

Royal Seafood is known for its generous portions of flavorful dim sum, ideal for sharing. The steamed pork buns are a savory treat and a real crowd-pleaser, while the fried sesame balls provide a sweet ending to any meal.

Best Dim Sum in NYC Outside of Chinatown

11. Tim Ho Wan - East Village

Known as the "world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant," Tim Ho Wan brings Hong Kong-style dim sum in Chinatown NYC, or at least close by, in the East Village. The location is perfect when you are craving a casual meal that uses all of the best high-quality ingredients.

While visiting, taste the baked BBQ pork buns. They are a signature dish with a crispy top and sweet, savory filling. The pan-fried turnip cake is a tender, flavorful and wonderful ending for any meal.

12. RedFarm - Upper West Side

RedFarm is a modern dim sum spot that provides contemporary twists to traditional Chinese menu items. The Upper West Side location is trendy with modern, rustic décor and perfect for anyone looking for a creative dining experience and an exceptional menu.

If you have sampled all the dim sum in Chinatown NYC and are ready to try something different, check out this place. You will want to sample the Pac Man shrimp dumplings with a playful presentation and vibrant flavors. For a tart and tasty treat, try the key lime pie.

13. Dim Sum Palace - Midtown West

In Midtown's heart, Dim Sum Palace offers an authentic dim sum experience in a convenient and lively part of the city. It is a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely meal when dim sum in Chinatown NYC is not quite as convenient.

Head here before catching an evening show or after a matinee. When visiting, sample the shrimp dumplings (Har Gow). They are delicate and juicy, The BBQ pork buns (Cha Siu Bao) are another popular choice, soft and sweet with a savory filling.

14. The Bao - East Village

The Bao offers a cozy and casual atmosphere focusing on freshly made dim sum and buns. It is a favorite among locals and equal in popularity to many of the best known restaurants serving dim sum in Chinatown, NYC.

The consistent quality and flavorful dishes here cannot be beaten. The Xiao Long Bao consists of a savory broth and tender pork dim sum that practically melts in your mouth. Also, try the scallion pancakes with a crispy, flaky texture and aromatic seasoning blend.

15. Jing Fong - Upper West Side

This is an extension of a favorite spot for dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Jing Fong’s Upper West Side location is smaller and more intimate, but the high-quality dim sum offered is equal to that at the other location.

In the Upper West Side, you will find a family-friendly spot ideal for a weekend brunch or lunch. Some menu favorites include the steamed spare ribs that practically fall off the bone and sticky rice in lotus leaf, a fragrant dish packed with fresh ingredients.

16. Kings County Imperial - Williamsburg, Brooklyn

At Kings County Imperial, guests enjoy a farm-to-table approach to Chinese cuisine, with dim sum made from the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. The rustic, chic setting welcomes you in to relax and dine leisurely.

Two favorites on the menu include the pork belly buns served in a fragrant soft bun with a side of pickled relish. The Sichuan wontons are a popular addition to the table with a spicy flavor and silky texture.

17. Nom Wah - Nolita

Nom Wah Dim Sum Chinatown NYC — *Nom Wah Nolita (via Nom Wah)*

A modern outpost of the famous Nom Wah Tea Parlor, this Nolita location is fun, hip, trendy. It serves dim sum that rivals the finest dim sum in Chinatown, NYC. Nom Wah is the ideal spot for a laid-back meal with friends.

You will love the shrimp and snow pea leaf dim sum, which has a vibrant flavor and satisfying crunch. Pair this dish with crispy egg rolls that combine fresh seasonal vegetables and high-quality pork.

18. Yumpling - Long Island City, Queens

Yumpling is known for its Taiwanese-inspired dim sum. The establishment takes traditional dishes and adds modern touches to create something truly unique.

The Long Island City location is convenient to the subway and a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. While visiting, sample their juicy Taiwanese fried chickens and their fresh and savory pork soup dumplings.

19. Mr. Bun - Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn

Mr. Bun is a neighborhood favorite for dim sum in Sheepshead Bay. Here, you will find a fantastic selection of dim sum to satisfy even the most discerning guests.

The setting is casual and the atmosphere is inviting. It is a great choice for a meal with family or friends. Guests frequently rave about the soft and fluffy steamed pork buns and the shrimp dumplings with the perfect balance of aromatic chives and spices.

Dim sum in Chinatown, NYC, is a popular choice for a meal or a midday snack and there are plenty of fantastic locations where you can find it. Whether you are spending the day sightseeing or hopping out for a quick meal in between midday work calls, try one of these spots and find your new favorite today.

For even more fun things to do in NYC, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!