Manhattan’s Chinatown is a bustling neighborhood filled with shops, markets, and some of the best dim sum in NYC. Known for its authentic Cantonese fare, this area is a culinary hotspot where traditional dim sum dishes are crafted with extraordinary skill. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, exploring these top spots will lead you to some of the best dim sum Chinatown NYC has to offer.

Ping’s

Since 1998, Ping’s has been a beloved spot for dim sum in Chinatown. Located on Mott Street, this cash-only establishment offers a diverse menu of traditional dim sum and fresh seafood specialties. The extensive selection ensures that every visit to Ping’s is a unique culinary adventure.

Dim Sum Go Go

Dim Sum Go Go is a popular no-frills dim sum joint known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine. Located on East Broadway, this restaurant offers an impressive dim sum platter featuring ten different dumplings, both meat and vegetarian, wrapped in either crystal skin or wheat flour wrappers. The variety and quality make Dim Sum Go Go a standout in Chinatown.

Royal Seafood

Royal Seafood on Mott Street is renowned for its traditional decor and exceptional dim sum. This restaurant seamlessly blends classic and modern elements, with carts delivering a range of delicious dishes. Standout items include braised tripe, mini custard pies, fresh tofu, short ribs, shrimp rice noodle rolls, and pea shoot dumplings.

Nom Wah Tea Parlor

Nom Wah Tea Parlor, established in 1920, is the oldest dim sum restaurant in New York City. Located on Doyers Street, this historic spot is a must-visit for dim sum enthusiasts. Unlike many dim sum restaurants, Nom Wah doesn’t use carts. Instead, customers check off their orders on a pad, and waiters bring the dishes directly to the table. Highlights include the original egg roll, shrimp and snow pea leaf dumplings, turnip cakes, and roast pork buns.

Golden Unicorn

Golden Unicorn, located on East Broadway, has been serving upscale Cantonese dim sum since 1989. The restaurant’s two extravagant floors, one with bold reds and golds and the other with modern decor provide a unique dining experience. Popular dim sum choices include spare ribs, siu mai, and vegetarian crystal dumplings.

Jing Fong

Jing Fong is a Chinatown staple known for its bustling atmosphere and traditional dim sum service. Located on Centre Street, Jing Fong features carts filled with fresh dumplings and other delights. The vibrant setting, complete with red tablecloths and bright lighting, enhances the authentic dim sum experience.

Deluxe Green Bo

Deluxe Green Bo, situated on Bayard Street, is a cash-only spot famous for its Shanghai-style dim sum. The menu includes hot and spicy wontons with rich peanut sauce, scallion pancakes, and pork and crab soup dumplings. This hole-in-the-wall eatery offers a cozy atmosphere and authentic flavors.

Buddha Bodai

Buddha Bodai is a kosher and vegetarian dim sum restaurant on Mott Street. Since 2004, it has offered an impressive array of vegan dim sum dishes. The vegan BBQ pork bao tastes remarkably authentic, making Buddha Bodai a top choice for those with dietary restrictions.

Joe’s Shanghai

Joe’s Shanghai, located on Bowery, has been a Chinatown favorite since 1995. Known for its famous pork and crab soup dumplings, this restaurant greets diners with black vinegar dipping sauce, a staple for enjoying the dumplings. The simple decor and delicious food make Joe’s Shanghai a must-visit.

Vegetarian Dim Sum House

Vegetarian Dim Sum House on Pell Street offers a wide range of mock-meat dishes, including crispy sesame “chicken” made with fried bean curd skin and Peking “spare ribs” made with yams. The fresh fruit shakes, especially the kiwi, are a perfect way to end the meal.

456 New Shanghai

456 New Shanghai, a vintage Chinatown eatery on Mott Street, has been a go-to for dim sum since 1963. The restaurant, now run by the original owner’s grandson, offers steamed juicy buns with pork and crab meat and fried tiny buns, among other Shanghai-style dim sum.

Shanghai 21

Shanghai 21, located on Mott Street, serves both classic and innovative dim sum dishes. Popular items include black truffle soup dumplings with pork, steamed watercress and shrimp dumplings, and sesame rice balls in wine soup. The diverse menu makes Shanghai 21 a standout.

Mee Sum Café

Mee Sum Café, a nostalgic tea shop on Pell Street, offers inexpensive and delicious dim sum. Established in the 1960s, this old-school spot serves items like joong (leaf-wrapped sticky rice) and wonton soup. Diners can sit at the counter or at one of the few tables in the back.

Tim Ho Wan

Tim Ho Wan, the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, has an East Village location that’s close enough to Chinatown to include on this list. Known for its delicate har gow and steamed dumplings with shrimp and chives, Tim Ho Wan offers a high-quality dim sum experience at an affordable price.

Experience the Best Dim Sum in NYC with Us!

Ready to explore the best dim sum Chinatown NYC has to offer? Join us at Foods of NY Tours for a culinary adventure like no other. Our food tours take you through the heart of Chinatown, where you can savor the finest dim sum and learn about the rich history and culture of the neighborhood. Book your tour today and set out on a journey of flavors and stories that you won’t forget. Visit our website to view tour options and reserve your spot. Don’t miss out on this delicious experience!