The Best Chinese Restaurants In NYC
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NYC’s Chinese Food
New York City boasts some of the most diverse and exceptional Chinese food in the world, reflecting its vibrant immigrant history and dynamic culinary scene. From the iconic streets of Chinatown in Manhattan to the burgeoning food hubs in Queens and Brooklyn, the city's offerings range from classic dishes to modern interpretations.
Chinatown is the heart of traditional Chinese cuisine, with dim sum parlors, noodle shops, and Cantonese seafood restaurants that have become beloved institutions. Here, you can find everything from perfectly roasted Peking duck to steaming bowls of wonton soup.
In Flushing, Queens, the scene expands to include regional specialties from all over China. The neighborhood is famous for its spicy Sichuan dishes, hand-pulled noodles, and authentic street foods like jianbing (savory crepes) and xiao long bao (soup dumplings). Flushing's food courts are a treasure trove for adventurous eaters, offering a dizzying array of flavors and textures.
From classic dumplings to innovative Peking duck, here are some of the best Chinese restaurants in NYC, each offering a unique take on this beloved cuisine.
Peking Duck House
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Peking Duck House is famous for its namesake dish. Known for offering one of the best Peking duck experiences in the city, the restaurant prepares the dish with precision and flair. The crispy skin and tender meat are carved tableside and served with traditional pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions. It’s a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of this iconic Chinese dish.
Beyond duck, the menu features a range of Cantonese classics, but it’s the duck that steals the show, making it one of NYC’s finest Chinese dining destinations. There is also a second location in Midtown East.
Hunan Delight Matsuya
Hunan Delight Matsuya is renowned for serving flavorful and authentic Chinese cuisine, making it a go-to spot for locals on the Upper East Side for many years. Located in a bustling area, this restaurant has become a beloved staple of the neighborhood, consistently delivering high-quality dishes that keep customers coming back. With an extensive menu offering a wide variety of options, there’s something for everyone—from classic favorites like General Tso's chicken to more unique and flavorful regional specialties. Whether you're craving a quick takeout meal or a cozy dine-in experience, Hunan Delight Matsuya has established itself as a reliable and cherished part of the community's dining scene.
Kings Co Imperial
Kings Co Imperial, with locations in Williamsburg, Downtown Brooklyn, and the Lower East Side, elevates Chinese cuisine to a refined and modern level.
With a focus on farm-to-table ingredients and traditional Chinese cooking techniques, this modern eatery has earned rave reviews for its flavorful dishes. Known for its handmade noodles, dumplings, and expertly cooked meats, Kings Co Imperial emphasizes high-quality ingredients while staying true to authentic Chinese flavors. The wood-fired roast duck and Sichuan-style dumplings are standout dishes, and the trendy setting makes it a great spot for a chic night out.
Joe’s Shanghai
Joe’s Shanghai, with locations in Chinatown and Midtown, is a legend among New York’s Chinese restaurants. Its claim to fame is the soup dumpling, or xiao long bao, which has achieved iconic status. Filled with pork or crab and hot broth, these dumplings burst with flavor and are a must-try for any visitor. Beyond dumplings, Joe’s Shanghai offers a wide range of traditional Chinese dishes, but it’s the combination of its casual atmosphere and consistently high-quality food that keeps people coming back. Despite its popularity, the restaurant maintains a laid-back vibe that appeals to both tourists and locals.
Vanessa’s Dumpling House
Vanessa’s Dumpling House is one of the best-known spots for affordable, delicious dumplings in NYC. Located in Chinatown, this no-frills eatery serves up a variety of dumplings, buns, and pancakes at unbeatable prices. Pork and chive dumplings are a standout, as are the sesame pancake sandwiches filled with roasted pork or duck.
Vanessa’s is a go-to for a quick, satisfying meal on the go, and its budget-friendly prices make it popular with students and food lovers alike. The quality of the dumplings, combined with their affordability, solidifies Vanessa’s as a beloved institution in the city’s Chinese food scene.
The restaurant also has a pretty extensive e-commerce store where you can buy their hot chili oil, frozen dumplings, and even branded t-shirts!
Tao Downtown
Tao Downtown brings a luxurious, modern twist to Chinese cuisine. Located in Chelsea, this upscale restaurant is as much about the dining experience as it is about the food. The massive space is lavishly decorated with a dramatic, nightclub-like atmosphere, making it a popular spot for celebrations or nights out.
The menu offers a fusion of Asian cuisines, but the Chinese-inspired dishes are the stars. Crispy Peking duck, lobster wontons, and Cantonese-style lobster are just a few of the standout items. Tao Downtown’s mix of opulence, innovative dishes, and a vibrant setting makes it a top choice for those seeking an upscale take on Chinese dining.
Wrap Up
These six restaurants represent some of the best Chinese dining experiences NYC has to offer, from traditional dishes at Peking Duck House to the trendy vibes at Kings Co Imperial and the luxury of Tao Downtown. Whether you’re in the mood for affordable dumplings at Vanessa’s or a rich Peking duck dinner, New York’s Chinese restaurant scene has something for every palate and occasion.
