Chinatown is a vibrant neighbourhood in New York City that lures foodies with its Chinese and Southeast Asian restaurants. Learn more about the history of the second-oldest Chinatown in the United States on a guided tour or explore the array of bubble tea shops, souvenir stores and bustling markets on your own.
Feeling hungry? Pop into Mei Li Wah Bakery for delectable pork buns or sample dim sum in Jing Fong, then indulge in fried pork dumplings at Fried Dumpling or watch noodles be stretched by hand in Tasty Hand-pulled Noodles. If you’re feeling adventurous, try ginger or wasabi ice cream at Chinatown Ice Cream Factory.
Admire the area’s architecture and colourful Asian-inspired facades, including pagodas and tiled roofs, particularly at the Church of the Transfiguration and Mahayana Buddhist Temple. Visit nearby Columbus Park to catch locals practising Tai Chi and playing mahjong.
Getting there
Chinatown in New York stretches from east to west from Essex Street to Broadway Avenue and north to south from Grand Street to Henry Street and East Broadway. Take an MTA train to Grand Street Station or Chambers Street Stations and walk or use a local bus and stop at Chatham Square.