Rice Noodle Cart

- 8th Ave &, 61st St, Brooklyn, NY 11220

Introduction / Overview

In the heart of Brooklyn’s vibrant Sunset Park Chinatown, at the unmistakable corner of 8th Avenue and 61st Street, sits a culinary institution known simply as the Rice Noodle Cart. This unassuming street vendor is not just a place to grab a quick bite; it is a beloved, long-standing fixture that anchors the local community’s morning and lunchtime routine. Specializing in authentic Cantonese Cheung Fun, or steamed rice rolls, this cart has cultivated a devoted following among New Yorkers who appreciate genuine, fresh, and exceptionally budget-friendly Chinese street food.

The appeal of the Rice Noodle Cart is its simplicity and dedication to its craft. The Cheung Fun—a dish made from a thin sheet of steamed rice flour batter, wrapped around various fillings—is consistently hailed by loyal customers as "super delicious" and perfectly executed. What makes this cart truly special is the fact that the noodles are completely made to order. This commitment to freshness means that every New Yorker who stops by receives a serving of springy, melt-in-your-mouth rice rolls, hot and ready to eat. This focus on immediate preparation ensures the distinct, delicate texture that is the hallmark of high-quality Cheung Fun.

Classified as a Chinese Noodle Restaurant, though operating from a casual street cart, this establishment excels at providing pure comfort food and a quick bite. It is immensely popular for both Lunch and Dinner and is a perfect spot for Solo dining, reflecting the efficient, no-fuss nature of New York street food culture. The atmosphere is authentically casual, allowing customers to easily enjoy this Cantonese classic right on the sidewalk, or quickly take it to go. Its longevity and consistent quality demonstrate its worth as a true gem in Brooklyn’s diverse culinary scene.

Location and Accessibility

Accessibility is a strong point for this location. It is easily reachable via public transportation, with the N and R subway lines serving the area, making it convenient for residents across Brooklyn and beyond to visit. As a street cart, the physical accessibility is straightforward. While it operates as a quick takeout spot, the surrounding neighborhood environment—often described as bustling yet inviting—makes the experience authentically New York.

For those traveling by car, the cart’s location in a dense urban area means parking is typically limited to paid street parking options nearby, which is a common feature of this vibrant commercial strip. However, the true convenience for local users lies in its walkability and its status as a long-standing, well-known local hub. New Yorkers know to look for the line—often a visible feature, especially in the mornings—indicating the fresh, daily-made quality of the product, confirming its role as a must-visit destination in the Sunset Park area.

Services Offered

The Rice Noodle Cart focuses on a highly specialized menu, offering a simple yet versatile range of services centered around Cantonese Cheung Fun.

• Made-to-Order Cheung Fun Production: The core service is the fresh, on-the-spot steaming of Cheung Fun (rice rolls) using a simple process that ensures peak freshness and the desirable silky, chewy texture.
• Savory Filling Choices: Customers can choose from an impressive variety of classic meat and seafood fillings, including BBQ Pork (Char Siu), Fresh Shrimp, Ham (Spam), Dried Shrimp, Beef, and Ground Chicken.
• Customizable Orders: Options include choice of filling, small or large sizing, and the ability to add an egg for a heartier meal—a highly recommended addition by frequent patrons.
• Specialized Sauce Profiles: The cart offers several distinct sauce options, including a simple soy-based sauce (sweet soy), peanut sauce, and Sriracha (hot sauce). Note: Patrons are advised by regular customers to choose one sauce profile, as they do not always blend well together.
• Order Fulfillment: Primarily operates via Takeout directly from the cart, serving as a rapid Quick bite option. Although categorized as having a 'Dine-in' option by some platforms, the dining atmosphere is strictly Casual and typically involves eating immediately nearby.
• Payment Method: Strictly Cash Only, reflecting its status as a traditional, high-volume street food vendor.

Features / Highlights

The Rice Noodle Cart is cherished by New Yorkers for several key attributes that elevate it beyond a typical street vendor.

• Unbeatable Freshness and Texture: The most significant highlight is the Cheung Fun itself. Being made-to-order and served immediately ensures a silky, soft, and melt-in-your-mouth texture that is difficult to replicate in sit-down restaurants, distinguishing it as superior Cantonese street food.
• Exceptional Value (Budget-Friendly): With prices starting as low as $1.50, the cart offers one of the best value-for-money meals in all of New York City, providing a substantial and delicious Comfort food option without straining the wallet.
• Veteran Community Presence: The cart has been in its location for years, serving as a reliable and familiar institution to local residents—a testament to its consistent quality and friendly service.
• Friendly, Engaging Owners: Customer reviews repeatedly highlight the "super friendly" owners and the fact that the lady speaks English and is polite, creating a welcoming environment that counters the sometimes intimidating nature of fast-paced street food service in a busy Chinatown.
• Custom Sauce Mastery: The option to choose distinct sauces (peanut, soy, sriracha) allows for a highly customized meal, satisfying a wide range of flavor preferences, from simple savory to complex and spicy.

Contact Information

To experience this beloved Sunset Park Chinatown institution, visit the location below. As a street cart, no phone number is consistently listed for public orders.

Address: 8th Ave &, 61st St, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA

What is Worth Choosing

For any New Yorker seeking an authentic taste of Cantonese street food, the Rice Noodle Cart at 8th and 61st Street is an essential destination. What is truly worth choosing here is the combination of peerless freshness and incredible value. In a city where a simple breakfast can easily cost over $10, the ability to purchase a large, freshly steamed, and incredibly satisfying rice noodle roll for under $5 is a rare and precious find.

The consistency of the product is legendary; customers attest that the noodles remain their favorite, years after first trying them. The preparation is transparent and simple—the rice rolls are steamed right in front of you—which guarantees the delicate, silky texture that defines authentic Cheung Fun. Whether you opt for the savory richness of BBQ Pork or the subtle flavor of Fresh Shrimp, the quality of the base noodle is the star of the show.

Beyond the food, supporting this establishment means embracing a true piece of local New York culture. The friendly owners and the speed of service make it a genuinely pleasant transaction. However, heed the advice of local experts: while the variety of sauces is excellent, be strategic in your choice. The simple pairing of the rice roll with the house soy-based sauce and an optional dash of sriracha is often the perfect balance. Just remember to bring cash and arrive with an appetite for a quick, delicious, and deeply satisfying meal that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant, budget-conscious spirit of Brooklyn's Chinatown.

Rice Noodle Cart

8th Ave &, 61st St, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA