Famous City Kitchen

- 5311 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220

For New Yorkers seeking a genuine taste of history paired with exceptional Cantonese cuisine, the conversation inevitably turns to Nom Wah Tea Parlor. Located on the famed, curved block of Doyers Street in the heart of Manhattan’s Chinatown, Nom Wah is more than just a Chinese restaurant—it is a living landmark. Established in 1920, it holds the title of the oldest continuously operating dim sum restaurant in New York City, a testament to its enduring quality and unique charm.

The tea parlor originally started as a bakery and a spot for tea, before gradually evolving to specialize in the exquisite, small plates of dim sum it is celebrated for today. Its history is inextricably linked with the cultural tapestry of Chinatown, having witnessed and survived a century of change in the city. The professional, yet friendly atmosphere inside invites both lifelong locals and curious visitors to share in a piece of this New York history, all while savoring some of the city’s most beloved and expertly crafted dumplings and buns.

This establishment has consciously maintained a commitment to tradition, offering a dining experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly authentic. When you step through the doors, you are not just having a meal; you are participating in a century-old New York tradition that has been passed down through generations of dedicated owners and culinary masters. From its vintage décor to its signature menu items, Nom Wah Tea Parlor offers a professional and memorable Chinese dining experience that is highly recommended for anyone exploring the culinary depth of the New York region.

The commitment to keeping the experience authentic is evident in their shift to made-to-order dim sum, a professional choice that ensures every piece arriving at your table is as fresh as possible, distinguishing it from the traditional pushcart service often associated with larger dim sum banquet halls. This approach ensures a high standard of consistency and quality that has cemented its status as a Chinatown staple.

The historic nature of the restaurant also means it’s not uncommon to recognize the setting. Its vintage looks and classic diner feel have made it a popular backdrop for numerous movies and TV shows over the years, further cementing its iconic status within the New York cultural landscape. This rich history adds a layer of depth to the dining experience, making it a professional and compelling choice for anyone in the region seeking authentic dim sum.

Even with its deep historical roots, Nom Wah has successfully navigated the modern culinary scene. The current owner, a nephew of the former long-time proprietor, has gracefully blended the venerable traditions with modern business practices, ensuring the legacy continues while meeting contemporary expectations for service and quality. This balance of the old and new is a key part of its appeal to a diverse New York clientele.

Nom Wah Tea Parlor is known for its ability to cater to diverse groups, from solo diners grabbing a quick, satisfying lunch to families and friends gathering for a larger meal. The welcoming and casual atmosphere, paired with the professional efficiency of the staff, makes it a reliable choice for any occasion in the area.

The dedication to serving high-quality, made-to-order dim sum, rather than the mass-produced variety, is the foundational reason for its longevity and continued acclaim. This focus on freshness and craft is what truly sets it apart as a professional, top-tier Chinese dining option in the city.

Nom Wah Tea Parlor is ideally situated at a truly unique and historic spot in Manhattan’s Chinatown: 13 Doyers Street, New York, NY 10013. Doyers Street is famous for its distinctive, sharp curve—often nicknamed the "Bloody Angle" for its historical connections, but today it is a thriving, safer pedestrian hub known for its culinary gems.

The location is easily accessible via the New York City subway system, making it convenient for visitors from all five boroughs. Major subway lines are within a short walking distance, including the J/Z trains at Chambers Street and the 4/6 trains at Canal Street. The street itself is frequently blocked off to vehicular traffic, creating a unique and pleasant outdoor dining environment with foliage and umbrellas, enhancing the accessibility for local residents and making it a more pedestrian-friendly destination. Be prepared that due to its popularity, there can sometimes be a wait, especially during peak dining hours. It is highly recommended to plan your visit accordingly to ensure a smooth experience.

• Dine-in service in the historic tea parlor setting.
• Takeout options for enjoying dim sum at home or on the go.
• Reservations accepted for parties of three to five persons from Monday through Thursday via platforms like Resy.
• Walk-in seating is available for all party sizes, though parties of two are specifically accepted only as walk-ins on all days.
• Private events and buyouts are available for larger gatherings; inquiries must be made directly through the restaurant's contact page.
• Online shop offering Nom Wah merchandise and other items for fans to take a piece of the experience home.
• Delivery service available through third-party platforms such as Caviar.

• Historic Status: Founded in 1920, it is the oldest continuously operating dim sum parlor in New York City.
• Unique Ambiance: The dining room retains a classic, vintage, and nostalgic "diner-style" feel, complete with an old tin ceiling and tiled floors, which sets it apart from traditional banquet-hall dim sum spots.
• “The Original” Egg Roll: A signature menu item, distinct from typical egg rolls, featuring an egg crepe wrapped around a filling of chicken, vegetables, and mushrooms, then coated and fried in a homemade batter.
• Made-to-Order Dim Sum: All dim sum plates are prepared to order, ensuring maximum freshness and quality, a professional practice that distinguishes their service.
• Iconic Location: Situated on the unique, curved Doyers Street, which often becomes a large, popular outdoor dining space.
• Recommended Dishes: House Special Roast Pork Buns, Shrimp and Snow Pea Leaf Dumplings, Turnip Cake with XO sauce, and steamed rice rolls.
• Atmosphere: Casual and highly popular, attracting a mix of dedicated locals and global visitors.

Address: 13 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013

Phone: (212) 962-6047

Choosing Nom Wah Tea Parlor is an opportunity to engage with a genuine piece of New York’s culinary and cultural history. The professional commitment to quality is evident in their made-to-order approach, which delivers dim sum that tastes noticeably fresher and more expertly prepared. The atmosphere is undeniably unique—it’s a blend of old-school charm and casual, modern vibrancy, unlike the grand, often chaotic, banquet hall dim sum experience. It is worth choosing for the signature dishes, especially “The Original” Egg Roll and the Roast Pork Buns, which are lauded as some of the best in the city. For a New York local, it’s a non-negotiable must-visit to understand the foundational history of Chinatown’s dining scene. For visitors, it offers an authentic, high-quality, and historically rich dim sum experience that is both welcoming and iconic, all within the uniquely charming backdrop of Doyers Street.

Famous City Kitchen

5311 7th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA