Cheap Eats in NYC Chinatown: A Food Lover's Guide

New York City's Chinatown is a culinary treasure trove, offering an array of affordable dining options that delight both locals and tourists. This vibrant neighborhood, nestled in Lower Manhattan, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and delectable street food. In this guide, we'll explore some of the best cheap eats in Chinatown, focusing on must-try dishes, hidden gems, and iconic eateries that serve up delicious meals without breaking the bank.

1. Xi'an Famous Foods Xi'an Famous Foods is a beloved spot known for its hand-pulled noodles and spicy lamb dishes. Founded by the Yang family, the restaurant brings the flavors of Xi'an, China, to NYC with a unique twist. Their famous dish, the Lamb Noodle Soup, is both flavorful and filling. For just around $10, you get a generous portion of noodles, tender lamb, and a spicy, aromatic broth. Another standout is their Spicy Lamb Face Salad, a cold dish that's perfect for a hot day, featuring thinly sliced lamb mixed with tangy spices and fresh vegetables.

2. Joe’s Shanghai Famous for its soup dumplings, Joe's Shanghai is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Shanghainese cuisine. The restaurant's xiao long bao (soup dumplings) are legendary, with a thin, delicate wrapper encasing a savory pork filling and a flavorful broth. At around $10 for a plate of six dumplings, it's an excellent deal. Joe's Shanghai also offers other affordable dishes like scallion pancakes and braised pork belly, making it a great spot for a satisfying meal on a budget.

3. Prosperity Dumpling For a true Chinatown experience, Prosperity Dumpling is a local favorite. Known for its incredibly cheap prices and tasty dumplings, this spot offers a variety of options, from pork and chive dumplings to vegetable ones. The Fried Pork Dumplings are particularly popular, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. A plate of 10 dumplings costs around $5, making it one of the most budget-friendly meals in the neighborhood.

4. Vanessa’s Dumpling House Vanessa's Dumpling House is another great choice for dumpling enthusiasts. The restaurant's signature dish is the pork and chive dumplings, which are flavorful and well-seasoned. Vanessa's also offers a range of other affordable dishes, including hot and sour soup and sesame pancakes. With most dishes priced under $10, it’s easy to have a hearty meal without spending much.

5. Nom Wah Tea Parlor Established in 1920, Nom Wah Tea Parlor is one of the oldest dim sum restaurants in Chinatown. Despite its long history, it remains an affordable and popular spot for dim sum. The restaurant offers a variety of classic dim sum dishes, including dumplings, buns, and spring rolls. The Shrimp Dumplings and Pork Buns are particularly noteworthy. With prices ranging from $5 to $10 per dish, you can enjoy a traditional dim sum experience without overspending.

6. Chinatown Soup Dumplings For those who want to try a different take on soup dumplings, Chinatown Soup Dumplings offers a range of options. Their specialty is the Crab Meat and Pork Soup Dumplings, which are packed with rich flavors. The restaurant also serves other inexpensive dishes like braised pork and steamed buns. Prices are generally around $8 to $12 per dish, providing great value for the quality of food.

7. Super Taste Super Taste is a no-frills eatery that specializes in Northern Chinese cuisine. The restaurant is known for its hand-pulled noodles and dumplings, offering an authentic taste of Northern China at very reasonable prices. The Spicy Beef Noodle Soup and Pork Dumplings are popular choices. With most dishes priced under $10, Super Taste is a great place for a budget-friendly meal.

8. Great NY Noodletown Great NY Noodletown is a favorite among locals for its Cantonese-style dishes. The restaurant is renowned for its BBQ pork and noodle dishes. The Roast Pork and Noodles in Soup is a standout, offering a hearty meal for around $10. The restaurant’s prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great spot for both value and taste.

9. New York Noodle Town New York Noodle Town is another excellent option for affordable Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features a range of dishes, from noodle soups to fried rice. The Wonton Noodle Soup and Beef Chow Fun are particularly popular. Prices are typically around $8 to $12 per dish, ensuring that you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending too much.

10. Mei Lai Wah Mei Lai Wah is renowned for its pork buns and dim sum. The restaurant offers a variety of steamed buns and dumplings at very reasonable prices. The BBQ Pork Buns are a highlight, with a sweet and savory filling that is sure to satisfy. With most items priced around $5 to $10, Mei Lai Wah is an excellent choice for a budget-friendly meal.

In conclusion, NYC Chinatown is a haven for food lovers seeking delicious and affordable eats. From soup dumplings and hand-pulled noodles to BBQ pork and dim sum, the neighborhood offers a diverse range of culinary delights. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these cheap eats are sure to provide a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience. So grab your chopsticks and explore the flavorful world of Chinatown's budget-friendly food scene!