AAPI Owned Businesses to Support in NYC Chinatown

Seeker Editors

Chinatown has long been part of the checklist when taking a trip to NYC. With no shortage of locally owned, insanely delicious, and fairly priced options, there is a reason Chinatown has been considered one of the top foodie destinations of the city. Along with imported snacks, bubble tea, and savory pork dumplings and noodles- make sure to visit Chinatown on an empty stomach! Here is a list of some of the most delicious restaurants in this lively area of the city.

Mei Lai Wah, The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, Taiyaki NYC, Alimama Tea, Nom Wah Tea Parlor, Great NY Noodletown, Sugartown NYC

  • Mei Lai Wah in New York, United States

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      This is a super cozy bakery in Chinatown that serves some of the best-steamed buns and sweet treats around. Stop by in the morning for an affordable cup of hot coffee and a Chinese pastry, or in the afternoon for steamed pork buns and milk tea. Serving both sweet and savory treats, Mei Lai Wah has something for everyone.

  • The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory in New York, United States

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      Have you tried Ube, Lychee or Sesame flavored ice cream? These mouth-watering flavors and countless others, including squid ink, mango, and green tea are all served daily at the Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory. Founded in 1978, this staple of New York Chinatown has remained a favorite for local new yorkers from all five boroughs and a checklist spot of foodie tourists seeking an affordable and delicious icy treat.

  • Taiyaki NYC in New York, United States

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      This is arguably the most instagramable treat available in New York! With creamy soft serve ice cream wrapped inside of a traditional Japanese fish-shaped pastry, Taiyaki NYC provides a unique combination of flavors that happens to also be incredibly photogenic. The perfect treat to grab and go during your stay in New York, any ice cream lover will be in heaven with this cute dessert.

  • Alimama Tea in New York, United States

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      Delicious ice cream treats, chewy mochi donuts, and freshly brewed bubble tea, Alimama Tea has the best selection for unwinding after a busy day of walking around the city. Stop by for yuzu, earl grey lavender, and more unique and fresh flavors packaged in aesthetically pleasing and homemade pastry form. This tea spot is a local favorite and no Chinatown list would be complete without a flavorful bubble tea option. We recommend the cereal flavored mochi donuts which have added mochi (sweet rice cakes) to the dough, and a classic cereal coating for an A+ combination of texture and flavor.

  • Nom Wah Tea Parlor in New York, United States

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      Since 1920 Nom Wah has been serving authentic and delicious dim sum to New Yorkers. The tea parlor has become an iconic staple of the neighborhood, a favorite of locals and tourists. Fun fact: Several movies and even Law and Order was filmed at this location

  • Great NY Noodletown in New York, United States

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      This locally loved Cantonese restaurant offers delicious barbecue meats, crispy chicken, homemade noodles, rice dishes, seafood dishes, and many more. This has been a NY staple and has been included in Michelin guides, as locals frequent the spot well until closing time at 4 am. Stop by Great NY Noodletown for a budget-friendly and filling meal after a long day of exploring the city.

  • Sugartown NYC in New York, United States

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      This is your stop for imported treats! From bags full of matcha-flavored Kit Kats, honey-flavored potato chips, and traditional Chinese sweets- Sugartown NYC is the place to go to satisfy your craving or just to try something new. There is a huge collection of goodies, and even the option to self serve your own curated little bag of sweets. This super cute and more new local business is one to include on your Manhattan to-do list.