Best Upscale Chinese Restaurants in NoLita | Upscale Chinese Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Chinese Restaurants in NoLita | Upscale Chinese Food

• Sam's Fried Ice Cream — Chinese · rated 5/5: This vibrant dessert destination invites guests into a world of delightful contrasts, where the golden sizzle of the fryer meets the velvety chill of premium ice cream. Each hand-crafted sphere shatters to reveal a frozen heart, complemented by an array of decadent drizzles and whimsical toppings that transform a classic treat into a multi-sensory celebration.
• Pecking House — Chinese · rated 5/5: Pecking House reimagines the classic fried chicken joint as a vibrant crossroads of Southern comfort and bold Sichuan heat, where the air hums with the aromatic scent of toasted chilies and sizzling poultry. Diners dive into shatteringly crisp chili chicken and spice-dusted wings that pair perfectly with smoky turkey bacon fried rice and the refreshing, charred crunch of wok-fried lettuce. From the fiery kick of handmade wontons to the savory depth of their signature sandwiches, every bite offers a masterclass in texture and a soulful celebration of cross-cultural flavors.
• Grand Tea and Imports — Chinese · rated 5/5: Stepping into this aromatic sanctuary feels like a journey through China’s storied tea regions, where the air is thick with the floral perfume of jasmine and the earthy, grounding depth of aged pu-erh. Shelves are lined with artisanal treasures ranging from delicate, hand-rolled spring green coils to rare, wild-grown white teas harvested from the misty peaks of Taishan. Whether sipping a velvety rose-infused black tea or a bright, citrusy tangerine-aged brew, guests discover a serene space where ancient tradition and heritage craftsmanship are poured into every cup.
• Malaysia Beef Jerky Inc — Chinese · rated 5/5: The air around this bustling storefront is thick with the irresistible scent of caramelized honey and smoky charcoal, drawing passersby into a world of traditional Malaysian street flavors. Sheets of tender, hand-grilled jerky glisten under warm lights, offering a perfect balance of sweet glaze and savory spice that yields to a satisfying, smoky chew. This vibrant nook captures the soul of Southeast Asian night markets, where the rhythmic sizzle of the grill and rich, umami-packed aromas create a nostalgic haven for those seeking an authentic, handcrafted treat.
• Chang Lai fish balls noodles 常来鱼蛋肠粉 — Chinese · rated 5/5: Welcome to Chang Lai Fish Balls Noodles 常来鱼蛋肠粉, located at 92-18 92nd Ave, Queens, NY! This delightful eatery, perfect for family dining, offers a warm and caring atmosphere with wonderful food and excellent service. Open for lunch and dinner with takeout too, it’s a must-visit spot for noodle lovers. Discover more at [Chang Lai Fish Balls Noodles](http://www.changlaifishballsnoodles.com/).
• Yuan Zai Bing — Chinese · rated 4.9/5: Stepping into Yuan Zai Bing, the air is thick with the comforting aroma of simmering brown sugar and toasted sesame, drawing diners into a space where tradition meets refreshing indulgence. Silken, hand-rolled glutinous rice balls are nestled atop peaks of crystalline shaved ice, creating a playful contrast of steaming warmth and frosty chill that dissolves into a symphony of sweet, earthy syrups. This vibrant retreat captures the essence of nostalgic Chinese sweets, where the rhythmic scrape of the ice shaver and jewel-toned toppings offer a refreshing escape from the bustle of the day.
• Chang Lai Fishballs Noodles — Chinese · rated 4.9/5: Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, Chang Lai Fishballs Noodles serves up authentic Cantonese street food with a warm, homely atmosphere. Delight in fresh, tender rice rolls, flavorful fish balls, and other quick bites like noodles and rice rolls. With a 4.9 rating from 524 reviews, it’s clear that this spot is a favorite for both takeout and dine-in. Conveniently located at 55 Bayard St Store B, New York, Chang Lai is your go-to for delicious and reasonably priced meals. Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM.
• Jiang Nan — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Jiang Nan transports diners to the mist-shrouded water towns of the Yangtze River delta, where elegant interiors and soft lighting create a sanctuary of refined Chinese hospitality. The kitchen masterfully balances the delicate sweetness and savory depth of the region, serving up glistening braised meats and silken dumplings that melt on the tongue. It is a sensory journey where traditional artistry meets modern sophistication, turning every meal into a graceful celebration of regional heritage.
• Dumpling N' Dips — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive at the table, unveiling hand-pleated parcels that glisten with savory juices and vibrant, jewel-toned wrappers. This lively destination celebrates the art of the perfect bite, where a curated array of bold, aromatic dipping sauces invites diners to customize their journey through the rich, comforting flavors of modern Chinese soul food.
• Mr. Keke — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Mr. Keke pulses with a modern energy, where the rhythmic dance of the wok and the gentle hiss of bamboo steamers set the stage for an unforgettable communal feast. Vibrant, spice-flecked dishes and golden-roasted specialties take center stage, inviting guests to lose themselves in a sensory journey of bold flavors and aromatic heat within a space that hums with urban sophistication.
• Lei — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Lei invites guests into a sanctuary of refined elegance, where the soft glow of silk lanterns illuminates a space filled with the fragrant steam of jasmine tea and the rhythmic, soulful sizzle of the wok. The kitchen masterfully balances the bold, numbing heat of traditional spices with the delicate sweetness of fresh ingredients, creating a vibrant tapestry of regional flavors that transforms every shared plate into an evocative celebration of Chinese culinary artistry.
• Bo Hai Dumpling Town — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Bo Hai Dumpling Town, at 217 E Broadway, New York, is a hidden gem for frozen dumpling lovers. Rated 4.8 stars by 37 reviewers, this charming spot offers a plethora of handmade dumplings, buns, scallion pancakes, and wontons. Operating from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, it provides a friendly atmosphere and the convenience of takeout. Card payments are accepted. Experience authentic flavors made from scratch, sure to delight every palate.
• Little Kirin — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Located at 81 St Marks Pl, New York, Little Kirin offers a delightful combination of Pan-Asian comfort food and sandwiches. This casual, counter-serve restaurant boasts a high user rating of 4.8 from 257 reviews. Diners can enjoy takeout, curbside pickup, or dine-in options with convenient payment methods. Its cozy indoor seating and friendly staff make it an excellent spot for a casual meal.
• Fan Szechuan 大宅门 — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: At Fan Szechuan 大宅门, enjoy a delightful dining experience with flavorsome Szechuan delicacies in the heart of New York's Lower East Side. With a 4.8-star rating from happy patrons, the friendly staff and serene atmosphere will make your visit memorable. Open seven days a week, they offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. Located at 103 Essex St, this spot is perfect for both family meals and exciting culinary adventures.
• ME CHICKEN RICE — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Nestled in Greenwich Village, ME CHICKEN RICE is a delightful Thai restaurant that has gained acclaim for its specialty, Hainanese chicken rice. Offering a cozy and unpretentious atmosphere, the restaurant serves comfort food and quick bites, including roasted and fried chicken, and daikon soup. With friendly staff and efficient service, it's no wonder customers keep coming back for the delicious, affordable meals ranging from $10-20.
• Super Taste — Chinese · rated 4.8/5: Super Taste, located at 1502 1st Ave., New York, serves up authentic Chinese comfort food with a cozy, informal atmosphere. Featuring world-famous noodle dishes, dumplings, and sandwiches, this eatery on the Upper East Side offers both dine-in and takeout options. Popular menu items include Sichuan-style dumplings and beef noodles. Open daily from 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM, it's a must-visit for delicious, affordable meals priced between $10-$20.
• Soothr — Thai · rated 4.7/5: Soothr transports diners to the heart of Bangkok with a high-energy atmosphere where the rhythmic clatter of woks and the intoxicating scent of Thai basil fill the air. The kitchen honors time-tested family recipes, serving up vibrant plates that dance between fiery spice and cooling citrus against a backdrop of warm wood and nostalgic decor. It is a spirited celebration of regional flavors, inviting guests to linger over aromatic
• Yum Cha — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a rhythmic procession, unveiling translucent shrimp dumplings and honey-glazed pork buns that perfume the air with ginger and five-spice. The space hums with the convivial energy of shared stories and clinking porcelain, creating a vibrant backdrop for a leisurely feast where the ancient art of tea-drinking meets a kaleidoscope of handcrafted delicacies.
• Yi Ji Shi Mo — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: The air at Yi Ji Shi Mo is thick with the comforting scent of steamed rice and savory soy, centered around the hypnotic rotation of traditional stone mills that grind grains into a signature, silken slurry. Each plate arrives as a masterpiece of translucent, gossamer-thin rice rolls that melt on the tongue, offering a masterclass in texture and time-honored craftsmanship.
• Chef Tan — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the rhythmic clang of woks and the intoxicating aroma of toasted chilies signal a masterclass in regional Chinese artistry. The air hums with energy as diners gather over steaming clay pots and vibrant platters, each bite delivering a sophisticated balance of numbing heat and savory depth that transports the senses to the heart of the Sichuan and Hunan provinces.
• O Ramen & Dim Sum M Yuki Sushi — Japanese · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Chinatown at 37 Allen St, New York, O Ramen & Dim Sum M Yuki Sushi offers a cozy setting perfect for families. Specializing in Japanese cuisine, the menu features popular dishes like roast pork ramen and scallion pancakes, alongside sushi and dim sum. The staff are often praised for their generous and patient service. Open daily from 10:30 AM to 1:00 AM, this spot is a delightful find for flavorful, budget-friendly meals ranging from $10-$20.
• Jin Mei Dumpling — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Jin Mei Dumpling in Manhattan, NY, is a no-frills Chinese restaurant renowned for its steamed and fried dumplings, noodles, and pancakes. Offering incredible value with generous portions like 15 dumplings for just $5, this cash-only spot is perfect for a quick, tasty bite. Open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM, it provides convenient takeout service with outdoor seating available.
• TLC Tea House — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the East Village, TLC Tea House offers a casual deli experience with a delightful array of all-you-can-eat breakfast and lunch options, including vegetarian fare. Notable dishes like the chicken sandwich, samosa chaat, and whiting fish with rice and salad have won the hearts of many. Complement your meal with a selection of teas and craft beers. With friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere, TLC Tea House is a must-visit. Find us at 103 E 2nd St, New York.
• Rice The Great food cart — Chinese · rated 4.7/5: Nestled in the heart of Manhattan at 906 Worth St, New York, Rice The Great food cart promises an unforgettable dining experience. This popular spot serves up fantastic barbecue dishes, with their Chicken over Rice receiving rave reviews. Open Monday to Friday from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM, this food cart offers friendly service and street cart prices without compromising on quality. The perfect lunch spot for locals and tourists alike!
• Szechuan Mountain House — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Ornate woodwork and glowing lanterns transform the dining room into a serene mountain retreat, where the air hums with the intoxicating fragrance of toasted chilis and numbing Sichuan peppercorns. Vibrant, spice-laden dishes arrive in a theatrical display of bold flavors and traditional artistry, offering an immersive experience that balances fiery intensity with the refined elegance of ancient Chinese heritage.
• Spicy Moon — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Bathed in the electric glow of neon lights, this vibrant Szechuan destination pulses with an edgy, urban energy that elevates plant-based dining to a bold new art form. The air hums with the sizzle of woks as numbing peppercorns and fragrant chili oils transform traditional flavors into a fiery, modern feast that dances across the palate.
• North Dumpling — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Clouds of steam rise from bubbling vats in this bustling, flour-dusted kitchen, where nimble hands expertly pleat paper-thin dough around savory, ginger-scented fillings. Each bite offers a masterclass in texture, from the satisfying crunch of golden, pan-seared bottoms to the succulent burst of juice within, all elevated by the sharp tang of black vinegar and the lingering heat of house-made chili oil.
• Potluck Club — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Potluck Club pulses with the electric energy of a modern Chinatown dinner party, where neon-lit accents and the lively clatter of shared plates create a backdrop of spirited nostalgia. The kitchen breathes fresh life into Cantonese soul food, delivering aromatic dishes that balance deep, savory traditions with bold, contemporary flair. This vibrant communal haven invites guests to linger over a feast that feels both intimately familiar and thrillingly new, capturing the soulful pulse of a neighborhood in motion.
• Thailicious — Thai · rated 4.6/5: Thailicious invites guests into a vibrant, aromatic space where the air is perfumed with the bright scent of lemongrass and the smoky heat of toasted chilies. The kitchen masterfully balances the five pillars of Thai flavor—sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and spicy—transforming fresh herbs and rich coconut milk into soul-warming curries and zesty, wok-fired creations that dance on the palate.
• Jiang's Kitchen — Chinese · rated 4.6/5: Steaming bamboo baskets and the intoxicating aroma of ginger and star anise greet guests at Jiang’s Kitchen, a vibrant haven where the art of Chinese cooking is performed with precision and heart. The experience unfolds through a symphony of textures, from the delicate snap of garden-fresh vegetables to the rich, smoky "wok hei" that infuses every expertly tossed dish. Amidst the soft glow of lanterns and the lively hum of shared conversation, each plate serves as a soulful bridge between ancient culinary traditions and contemporary flair.