Tao Hong

- 79 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002

In a city that is constantly reinventing itself, there are some places that remain perfectly, wonderfully, and authentically unchanged. Tao Hong, a cherished Chinese bakery on Chrystie Street in Chinatown, is one of those places. Stepping inside this small shop is like walking into a time capsule, a "little fluorescent-lit shrine to Cantonese comfort," as one reviewer beautifully described it. There are no fancy modern touches, no elaborate latte art, and no sleek, reclaimed wood tables. What you will find are glass display cases brimming with classic, glistening pastries—golden egg tarts, rows of pineapple buns, and sesame balls—that speak for themselves. This no-frills approach is a huge part of its charm. It's a place where the focus is solely on the quality of the baked goods, and the fast, efficient service of the "aunties behind the counter."

For New Yorkers seeking a taste of authentic tradition, Tao Hong offers a direct connection to the heart of Cantonese baking. The bakery specializes in a range of items that are staples of the cuisine, all made with care and a commitment to flavor. Customers consistently praise the incredible value and taste. One reviewer noted that they could walk out with a bag of pastries "still under ten bucks," a rarity in New York City. The bakery's reputation is built on its delicious and affordable offerings, a fact that draws both longtime locals and savvy tourists. The items are not just affordable; they are considered by many to be among the best in the city. This simple, honest approach to food is what makes Tao Hong such a beloved institution, proving that you don't need a trendy atmosphere to create a perfect culinary experience. It’s an ideal spot for a quick visit, a morning breakfast, or to grab a treat to go.

What sets Tao Hong apart from other bakeries is its commitment to freshness. They bake in "small batches throughout the day," which means that if you time your visit right, you can be treated to a warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven pastry, a true luxury. This practice ensures that every item is as delicious as possible. The bakery's location right next to the famous Wah Fung No. 1 Fast Food is also a plus, allowing you to combine two of Chinatown's most iconic quick-bite spots in one trip. While the shop is tiny and has no dedicated seating, the deliciousness of the pastries makes it worth the visit. You can enjoy your warm egg tart while standing by one of the small tables or take it to go and enjoy it in nearby Sara Delano Roosevelt Park, a classic New York experience. Tao Hong isn't just a business; it's a living part of the neighborhood's old traditions, "feeding anyone smart enough to wander in."

### Location and Accessibility

Tao Hong is situated at 79 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002, USA. This address places it firmly in the heart of Chinatown, a bustling and historically rich part of Manhattan. The bakery's location is easily accessible for anyone in the city. It is a short walk from multiple subway stations, including those for the B and D lines at Grand Street, the F train at East Broadway, and the J, Z, 6, N, Q, R, and W trains at nearby Canal Street. Its proximity to Sara Delano Roosevelt Park makes it an ideal spot to grab a bite and find a bench to enjoy it on a nice day. While there is no seating inside the tiny shop, the convenience of its location for a quick visit makes up for it. The store is part of a dynamic block that is always full of life, making the journey to get there part of the authentic Chinatown experience.

### Services Offered

• Takeout: As a traditional, no-frills Chinese bakery, Tao Hong's primary service is takeout. The process is quick and efficient, with customers lining up at the counter to select their pastries and have them packaged to go.

• Breakfast: The bakery is a popular spot for a quick breakfast. Many New Yorkers stop by on their way to work or start their day with a coffee and a fresh bun or pastry.

• Quick Visit: The bakery is designed for a fast and efficient experience. It is the perfect place to make a quick stop to satisfy a craving or grab a delicious, inexpensive treat without a long wait.

### Features / Highlights

• Amazing Egg Tarts: Tao Hong is renowned for its egg tarts, which are considered by many to be among the best in the city. They offer both the classic regular version with its smooth, subtle custard and the Portuguese-style version with its caramelized top and sweeter flavor.

• Fresh Small Batches: The bakery bakes in small batches throughout the day, ensuring that items like their famous egg tarts are often fresh out of the oven, providing a truly special treat for lucky customers.

• Authentic Cantonese Pastries: The menu features a wide array of classic Cantonese baked goods, including flaky pineapple buns, sweet red bean-filled sesame balls, and other traditional favorites that offer a genuine taste of the culture.

• Unbeatable Value: A key highlight is the incredible affordability of the pastries. Customers can get a substantial and delicious bag of treats for a very low price, making it a budget-friendly option for high-quality food.

• Friendly Service: Despite the fast-paced nature of the shop, customers have noted the kind and sweet demeanor of the staff, who add to the welcoming and authentic atmosphere.

### Contact Information

• Address: 79 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002, USA

• Phone: (212) 219-0981

### What is worth choosing

For New Yorkers who appreciate authenticity and high quality without the pretense, Tao Hong is a bakery that is absolutely worth choosing. The main reason is its specialization in a few key items that it does to perfection. The egg tarts are the undeniable star of the show. One reviewer stated that they were "on par with the BEST egg tart in Hong Kong," which is a monumental compliment. The flaky, buttery crust and the smooth, subtly sweet custard of the regular egg tarts are a delicious experience. The Portuguese egg tarts are also a standout, with a sweeter filling and a crème brûlée-like top. These aren't just pastries; they are a taste of tradition and a testament to the bakery's dedication to its craft.

Beyond the egg tarts, the other Cantonese pastries are also worth trying. The pork buns are big and fluffy with a perfect bun-to-filling ratio, and the mango mochis have been praised for their jiggly and pillowy texture. What makes Tao Hong so appealing is its unapologetic simplicity. It's a place that "doesn’t need to reinvent itself" because what it does, it does perfectly. The focus is on the food, not the frills, and that is a quality that New Yorkers appreciate. It’s an ideal spot for a quick visit to pick up a treat for yourself or to share. The affordability also means you can try a variety of items without worrying about your wallet. For a true taste of old-school Chinatown and a perfect, inexpensive bite, Tao Hong stands out as a must-visit destination.

Tao Hong

79 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002, USA