Best Affordable Chinese Restaurants in Midtown East | Affordable Chinese Food

30 restaurants in Best Affordable Chinese Restaurants in Midtown East | Affordable Chinese Food

• Mala Kitchen — Chinese · rated 5/5: Mala Kitchen invites guests into a sensory whirlwind where the air hums with the fragrance of toasted chilies and the unmistakable, numbing tingle of Sichuan peppercorns. Vibrant, spice-flecked dishes arrive in a parade of bold colors and aromatic steam, offering a masterclass in the balance between searing heat and deep, savory complexity. This is a place where every bite is an exploration of texture and fire, perfect for those seeking a spirited and authentic communal dining experience.
• Tipsy Shanghai — Chinese · rated 5/5: Tipsy Shanghai captures the spirited essence of old-world China, where the sweet, nutty aroma of Shaoxing wine and fragrant osmanthus perfumes the air. Diners delight in the theater of hand-pleated xiaolongbao bursting with savory broth, complemented by a tapestry of traditional cold plates ranging from smoky, crisp carp to tender salted duck. This elegant retreat brings together time-honored Shanghainese techniques and bold, marinated flavors for a dining experience that is both nostalgic and deeply soul-warming.
• Mitr Thai — Thai · rated 4.9/5: Step into a vibrant, light-filled sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of toasted chilies and kaffir lime leaves sets the stage for a soulful exploration of regional Thai flavors. The kitchen balances the fiery heat of the wok with the cooling creaminess of coconut milk, crafting beautifully plated dishes that invite guests to linger over shared bowls and celebrate the communal spirit of a traditional Bangkok feast.
• Grata Thai — Thai · rated 4.9/5: Grata Thai invites guests into a vibrant sanctuary where the rhythmic clatter of the wok meets the intoxicating fragrance of fresh Thai basil and kaffir lime. The kitchen masterfully balances the fiery heat of bird’s eye chilies with the soothing creaminess of hand-pressed coconut milk, creating a sensory journey that captures the soulful, sun-bright spirit of traditional Thai hospitality.
• Yoonkao Thai — Thai · rated 4.9/5: Yoonkao Thai invites guests into a vibrant, aromatic sanctuary where the rhythmic clatter of the wok and the intoxicating scent of bruised lemongrass signal a true culinary escape. Each dish arrives as a masterclass in balance, weaving together the fiery heat of bird’s eye chilies with the cooling richness of coconut and the bright, citrusy snap of fresh lime leaf. It is a soulful destination where traditional flavors are elevated by a modern touch, creating an atmosphere that is as warm and welcoming as a shared family feast.
• Mala Kitchen — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: The air hums with the intoxicating scent of toasted chilies and the signature tingle of Sichuan peppercorns, drawing guests into a space where the heat of the wok meets the warmth of shared plates. Glossy, spice-laden dishes arrive in a vibrant parade of color and steam, offering a bold sensory journey through the numbing, fiery depths of authentic regional flavors.
• Tam Mai Thai — Thai · rated 4.8/5: Tam Mai Thai transports guests to a bustling corner of Southeast Asia, where the air hums with the sizzle of hot woks and the bright, citrusy perfume of kaffir lime. Each plate arrives as a vibrant mosaic of color and heat, masterfully balancing the delicate sweetness of coconut with the fiery punch of hand-ground chilies for a truly immersive dining experience.
• Chef Huang — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in Midtown Manhattan's Murray Hill, Chef Huang offers an inventive fusion of traditional Cantonese, Sichuan, and northern Chinese cuisines. Renowned for its Peking duck and Chinese-style beef Wellington, this cozy, family-friendly spot provides exceptional culinary experiences at unbeatable prices. With an informal atmosphere, attentive service, and a menu that also includes wine and desserts, it’s perfect for both lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended.
• Lou Yau Kee — 2f1ab87e-f2f2-4475-94f4-eec159e47115 · rated 4.7/5: Located inside a vibrant food court at 124 E 14th St, New York, Lou Yau Kee offers flavorful and affordable Chinese cuisine. Known for their succulent chicken dishes, this student-friendly spot garners high praise for its delicious, well-cooked options and efficient service. With a rating of 4.7 from 129 reviews, it's a must-visit for anyone craving hearty, satisfying meals. Open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM.
• Tipsy Shanghai 蘇杭餐厅 — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: **About Tipsy Shanghai 蘇杭餐厅** Nestled in Midtown Manhattan's Murray Hill, Tipsy Shanghai is a long-running gem specializing in authentic Shanghainese cuisine. Known for its casual yet inviting atmosphere, this family-friendly eatery offers signature dishes like xialongbao, Wuxi spare ribs, and drunken chicken. With high chairs and a menu for children, it's perfect for all ages. Fast and friendly service, coupled with a student discount, makes Tipsy Shanghai a must-visit.
• Wokuni — Japanese · rated 4.5/5: Wokuni transports diners to a sophisticated seaside marketplace where shimmering displays of the day’s freshest catch serve as the centerpiece for an authentic Japanese feast. The air carries the delicate scent of charcoal-grilled fish and vinegared rice, inviting guests to savor buttery sashimi and salt-crusted seasonal specialties crafted with sea-to-table devotion. This expansive, light-filled sanctuary blends industrial flair with culinary
• Tipsy Shanghai — Chinese · rated 4.5/5: Stepping into Tipsy Shanghai feels like entering a vibrant corner of old-world China, where the air is thick with the savory steam of delicate soup dumplings and the rich, soy-glazed aroma of slow-braised pork belly. This lively haunt brings together traditional Shanghainese flavors with a spirited, modern energy, inviting guests to linger over bubbling clay pots and rice wine-infused specialties that capture the soulful, sweet-and-savory essence of the region.
• Tipsy Shanghai 蘇杭餐厅 — chinese_restaurant · rated 4.5/5
• Joe's Home of Soup Dumplings — Chinese · rated 4.5/5: Located at Tower 49 in New York, Joe's Home of Soup Dumplings serves up classic Shanghainese dishes in an informal setting. Known for their famous soup dumplings and a variety of delectable options, this restaurant has a stellar 4.5 rating with over 900 reviews. With outdoor seating, wine, and other drink options, Joe's is perfect for groups and families alike. Reservations are recommended for a smooth dining experience.
• Blue Willow — Chinese · rated 4.4/5: Blue Willow transports guests into a sophisticated realm where the delicate artistry of classic porcelain meets the bold, fiery spirit of authentic Chinese soul food. Amidst an atmosphere of understated elegance, the kitchen orchestrates a symphony of numbing Sichuan peppercorns, aromatic garlic, and silken textures that turn every shared plate into a vivid celebration of tradition and spice.
• Su Khum Vit 51 — Thai · rated 4.4/5: Su Khum Vit 51 captures the electric energy of Bangkok’s most iconic thoroughfare, drawing guests into a space where the air hums with the sizzle of woks and the bright, citrusy perfume of crushed lemongrass. The kitchen balances the fiery punch of bird’s eye chilies with the cooling creaminess of coconut milk, crafting vibrant dishes that celebrate the intricate dance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors. Every plate serves as a sensory journey through Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, blending the soul of a bustling street market with the refined elegance of a modern bistro.
• One Two Thai — Thai · rated 4.4/5: One Two Thai invites diners into a vibrant space where the intoxicating perfume of galangal and Thai basil mingles with the rhythmic clatter of a busy kitchen. The experience centers on a masterful balance of heat and harmony, serving up soul-warming curries and wok-fired specialties that capture the electric energy and bold, sun-drenched flavors of Thailand.
• Kristy's — American · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of the Bronx, Kristy's offers a delightful array of Chinese cuisine in a casual and family-friendly setting. Savor classic dishes like fried rice and chicken wings, all made fresh to order. With a strong community presence, patrons rave about the quick service and friendly atmosphere. Perfect for a quick bite or a takeout night, Kristy's serves lunch and dinner, with street parking available nearby.
• Blue Willow 夜来湘 — Chinese · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in Midtown West, Blue Willow offers an inviting 1920s-themed ambiance while serving delectable Hunan and Sichuan cuisine. Highlights include soup dumplings, mapo tofu, and Peking duck, complemented by an extensive cocktail menu. The cozy setting is family-friendly with fast, attentive service. Perfect for both group gatherings and intimate dinners, a visit here promises an enjoyable culinary adventure.
• Mian Kitchen — Chinese · rated 4.4/5: Located in the bustling UrbanSpace at Park Avenue South, Mian Kitchen delights with its vibrant and eclectic menu of baos, noodle bowls, and rice bowls. With a solid 4.4 rating, this spot is perfect for a quick, flavorful meal on the go. Open Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Saturdays till 5:00 PM, it welcomes diners with stress-free payment options, warm ambiance, and delectable flavors. Ideal for family-friendly dining, Mian Kitchen is a must-visit!
• Mazu Szechuan Cuisine — Chinese · rated 4.4/5: Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan's Kips Bay neighborhood, Mazu Szechuan Cuisine offers a delightful array of authentic Chinese dishes in a casual and laid-back atmosphere. Diners appreciate the fast, friendly service and the extensive menu, which features standout items like scallion pancakes, dumplings, and lychee martinis. Ideal for both family outings and happy hours, Mazu also offers convenient takeout and delivery options.
• Topaz — Thai · rated 4.3/5: Topaz invites guests into a luminous space where the fragrant steam of lemongrass and kaffir lime rises from every table, setting the stage for a journey through Thailand’s most vibrant flavors. The kitchen artfully balances the searing heat of bird’s eye chilies with the cooling richness of coconut milk, crafting aromatic curries and charred, wok-kissed noodles that burst with authentic soul. Every plate arrives as a colorful mosaic of fresh herbs and traditional spices, offering a sensory escape that captures both the bustling energy and refined elegance of Bangkok.
• Lilli and Loo — Chinese · rated 4.3/5: This Upper East Side sanctuary hums with a sophisticated energy, where sleek modern decor provides a polished backdrop for the intoxicating aromas of ginger, garlic, and sizzling woks. The experience centers on a vibrant celebration of Chinese culinary traditions, offering everything from the delicate, translucent pleats of steamed dumplings to the bold, umami-rich depths of perfectly glazed classics. It is a welcoming neighborhood retreat where the clinking of glasses and the warmth of shared plates create a timeless sense of community and culinary delight.
• Mazu — Chinese · rated 4.3/5: Mazu transports diners into a world of refined Chinese artistry, where the air is thick with the intoxicating aroma of toasted sesame and the gentle hiss of flash-seared aromatics. From the delicate translucence of masterfully crafted dim sum to the bold, lacquered glow of traditional roasts, every dish is a celebration of heritage served within a sophisticated, contemporary space that hums with communal energy.
• Han Ye — Korean · rated 4.3/5: Nestled at 7 E 47th St in New York, Han Ye is a delightful Chinese restaurant celebrated for its welcoming ambiance and diverse menu. Open from 11 AM to 10 PM Monday through Saturday, Han Ye is ideal for lunch and dinner outings, offering both takeout and dine-in options. With a commendable 4.3-star rating and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great pick for a flavorful culinary experience. For more details, call +1 212-207-4141.
• Bites of Xi'an 56 — Chinese · rated 4.3/5: Bites of Xi'an 56 is a cozy, counter-serve eatery at 60 W 56th St, New York, offering a delightful selection of handmade Chinese noodles, dumplings, and street-food favorites. Known for its stellar beef noodle soup and ample portions, it's a great spot for a quick, flavorful meal near Central Park. With a 4.3 rating and 333 reviews, the restaurant is family-friendly and provides convenient services like takeout and delivery.
• 53 — Chinese · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the heart of New York at 53 W 53rd St, this chic three-story dining space offers an elevated Asian culinary experience. Dine in a sophisticated atmosphere featuring a private room for special occasions. Enjoy gourmet cuisine complemented by a variety of cocktails, wine, and desserts. With a 4.3-star rating and reservations available, your memorable dining experience awaits. Contact +1 646-535-3994.
• Super Bowl — Chinese · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in Maspeth, Super Bowl is a delightful Chinese restaurant that boasts a family-friendly atmosphere and a strong commitment to great service. With convenient options for both dine-in and delivery, it has garnered a commendable 4.3-star rating from 80 reviews. Open Monday through Saturday, 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM, it provides flexible dining hours. Offering a variety of flavorful dishes, Super Bowl is a local favorite worth a visit. Contact: +1 718-894-1234 Location: 5560 60th St, Maspeth, NY 11378
• The Best Sichuan — Chinese · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in Midtown New York, The Best Sichuan offers a comfortable setting to savor authentic Sichuan dishes. With a 4.3-star rating from 792 reviews, this spot is praised for its flavorful cuisine, attentive service, and variety of options. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM, it caters to groups and families, offering takeout, delivery, and dine-in services. Enjoy the rich flavors while sipping on wine, beer, or cocktails.
• River House — Seafood · rated 4.3/5: Nestled in the Edgewater Marketplace, River House is a casual Chinese restaurant known for its comforting and authentic cuisine. With offerings like Peking duck, dumplings, and fried rice, this spot delights diners with both vegetarian and meaty options. Parents will appreciate the kid-friendly environment, complete with high chairs. Enjoy a beautiful river view and quick service while savoring delicious dishes at fair prices.