The Best Dumplings in NYC to Eat for Lunar New Year
From charming dim sum carts to affordable streetside vendors, let the flavors of these symbolic treats usher in a prosperous start to the new year during your NYC adventures.
February 9, 2024
From charming dim sum carts to affordable streetside vendors, let the flavors of these symbolic treats usher in a prosperous start to the new year during your NYC adventures.
February 9, 2024
As Lunar New Year approaches, dumplings become a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, resembling traditional money pouches. In the bustling dumpling scene of NYC, this guide is here to help travelers discover the best options for an authentic experience. From charming dim sum carts to affordable streetside vendors, let the flavors of these symbolic treats usher in a prosperous start to the new year during your NYC adventures.
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Ok … On to the list
Xi'an Famous Foods, founded by Xi'an native David Shi and now managed by his son, Jason Wang, offers a delectable journey across Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. While celebrated for its renowned hand-pulled noodles, the eatery's lamb and spinach dumplings shine as flavorful alternatives. Packed with chopped spinach and bouncy vermicelli noodles, the vegetarian option stands out, arriving in a bowl of vinegar-spiked chili oil that adds just the right amount of heat.
A soup-dumpling heavyweight, Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao has been a Queens staple since 2006 and expanded to Manhattan in 2022. Beyond its extensive menu featuring Northern Chinese, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang fare, the 11 varieties of xiao long bao steal the spotlight. From a multicolored Lucky Six sampler to luxurious options like scallop or truffle, there's something for every palate. For enthusiasts, the tried-and-true signature xiao long bao is a must.
Jing Fong, a cherished dim sum haven, made a triumphant return to Chinatown with its new Centre Street restaurant, delighting diners with a revival of Cantonese-style favorites served on roving carts. Despite the closure of its original Elizabeth Street location, the restaurant still offers classics such as siu mai, har gow, spare ribs, and BBQ roast pork dumplings, creating the perfect festive atmosphere for celebrating the Lunar New Year.
Established in 1920, Nom Wah Tea Parlor, led by first-generation New Yorker Wilson Tang, stands as Manhattan's oldest dim sum parlor. With locations across Manhattan, Philadelphia, and Shenzhen, this iconic establishment serves up classics like siu mai and har gow. Notably, their Shrimp & Snow Pea Leaf Dumplings stand out, featuring plump fresh shrimp and greens encased in nearly melt-in-your-mouth wrappers.
Delighting devoted fans, Shu Jiao Fu Zhou has reopened in a new space on 295 Grand Street, continuing to serve signature Fujianese dishes. A favorite among the city's large immigrant community from China's southeastern Fujian province, the restaurant offers must-try items like Peanut Noodles and boiled Pork & Chive Dumplings. With a new location, patrons can once again line up to enjoy these flavorful offerings, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of Fujian.
On Mulberry Street, Tasty Dumpling lives up to its name, offering delightful potstickers at an affordable price, around two bucks per serving. The Beijing-style dumplings boast thicker skins, perfect for both pan-frying and boiling. Popular among locals and social media for its bare-bones, cash-only setup, Tasty Dumpling is a go-to spot for those craving fried pork and chive dumplings without breaking the bank.
Known for its cuisine from China's central Henan province, Spicy Village's Homemade Steamed Pork Dumplings are a hidden gem, enveloped in a spicy scallion sauce and garnished with fresh cilantro and chopped scallions. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in their flavorful soup dumplings while savoring the vibrant atmosphere of this pint-sized restaurant.
In the heart of Manhattan's Chinatown, Deluxe Green Bo stands out for its Shanghainese cuisine and outstanding soup dumplings. Focusing on simplicity and deliciousness, their xiao long bao features plain and simple steamed pouches filled with crab, meaty pork, and savory broth. The cash-only spot's friendly service and inviting round tables make it an excellent choice for small groups looking to enjoy classic and straightforward Chinese fare.
A hidden gem in Chinatown, King Dumpling offers very good dumplings at an affordable price—$4 for 10. With a bit of a makeover featuring graffiti-style wall art, the old-school spot provides a variety of thicker-skinned, simple, yet satisfying dumplings. Ideal for a quick snack, King Dumpling is a perfect spot to duck into and while exploring downtown Manhattan.
Found at the last stop of the 7 Train in Flushing, White Bear is famed for its floppy wontons. These silky pork-filled parcels are delicious on their own and reach new heights when smothered in house-made chili oil, pickled veggies, and fresh scallions. A standout is the Number 6—a plate of a dozen pork wontons with pickled veggies, a spice rub, and a drizzling of chili oil, offering a spicy dumpling delight.
Situated in Flushing, Shanghai You Garden offers oversized xiao long bao filled with plump crab and dyed in pastel colors. These visually appealing soup dumplings, along with the crispy-bottomed parcels, make Shanghai You Garden a top choice. With a second location in Bayside, this Queens gem provides a diverse xiao long bao experience, featuring different colored skins for easy identification of flavors. Favorites include the classic crab and pork with a noticeably crabbier broth and a giant thick-skinned version where you slurp the soup out of a straw!
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