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Top picks in Chinatown

Affordable curry

A bowl of curry that hits the right spice notes without requiring a luxury-level budget.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Chang Lai image 1
Chang Lai image 2
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Chinese restaurant

Small space with intimate layout offers a family-like vibe. Curry fish balls deliver a savory, spicy kick with peanut hints. Prices stay well below city costs, keeping quality food affordable and welcoming.

Curry fish balls come with a savory, slightly spicy kick and a hint of peanut flavor. They pair well with silky rice noodles or in a crepe roll with peanut, sriracha, and hoisin sauce.

Prices stay well below typical city costs, with items like medium curry fishballs and coffee under $5. Food combines freshness and high quality while remaining very affordable.

People are saying

"The curry fish balls are so good, a must-try!"

"The food here is super cheap and delicious."

"I found the food to be hearty, fresh, and affordable."

Good to know

1

There is a free drink with purchase until 8/1.

2

There is a drinks promotion of buy 2 drinks, get 1 free.

3

The A2 fish balls and rice rolls are available for purchase at 6 PM.

02
West Rice Roll King 西关肠粉王 image 1

Tiny space with limited bar-style seating creates a crowded, bustling atmosphere where movement is tight and dining feels rushed. Most people come for takeout, watching rice rolls made fresh at the counter. The vibe suits quick stops rather than relaxed meals.

Curry fish ball rice rolls stand out with their flavorful curry sauce that has a bit of spice. The curry pairs well with the rice rolls, especially when combined with pork, egg, beef, or cilantro.

Food comes hearty, filling, and healthy with prices that stay super affordable. Rice rolls and cheung fun stand out as tasty options that won't stretch the budget.

People are saying

"The seafood rice rolls here are so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the curry fish balls; they were super delicious."

"The food here is hearty, filling, and super affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only; bring cash for your visit.

2

Seating is extremely limited, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect to wait at least 20-30 minutes after ordering.

03
West New Malaysia image 1
Malaysian restaurant

Spacious dining area with modern decor and exposed brick walls creates a clean, comfortable setting. Atmosphere blends cozy elegance with a family-style vibe, often hosting large groups. Staff presence near the bar adds a watchful energy, while the space suits both casual meals and intimate dinners.

Curry dishes feature a fantastic balance of spice and creamy coconut flavor. Options include chicken curry laksa soup, curry beef, and a combination platter with tender beef rendang and fragrant satay beef.

Prices stay affordable with dishes like the homestyle combo featuring beef curry, Hainanese chicken, and fried chicken over rice. Food tastes good and offers a great deal for the cost.

People are saying

"I found this to be the best Malaysian curry spot in NYC."

"The Roti Canai is flaky, layered, and expertly prepared."

"The food here is delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Management prefers cash payments; there's a 3% surcharge for credit card use.

2

Only street parking is available near the restaurant.

3

The kitchen closes at 8:30 PM, so plan accordingly.

04
Fok Noodles image 1
Chinese restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurant with a small, cozy dining area and an open kitchen near the entrance. Walls are colorful, creating a welcoming vibe without music, focusing on eating. Mostly locals come here for authentic handmade dim sum, comfort Hong Kong style food, and reasonable prices.

Curry dishes include duck curry, oxtail curry, and curry beef brisket rice. These dishes offer rich, comforting flavors alongside other staples like claypot rice and dim sum.

Food comes at a very affordable price with options considered inexpensive. Service stays fast and staff friendly, keeping the experience budget-friendly.

People are saying

"These fried dumplings have great browning and taste amazing."

"The curry dishes here are flavorful and authentic."

"The food here is delicious and surprisingly affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating and can fill up quickly during peak hours.

2

Expect large portion sizes, making it a good value for the price.

3

Complimentary tea is offered upon seating, enhancing the dining experience.

05
Fok Noodles Express image 1
Asian restaurant

Small, cozy Asian bistro offers a quiet atmosphere with affordable prices and fast service. The menu features juicy dumplings and tempting roast duck specials. Lines form outside, reflecting its popularity for quick, tasty meals.

Steamed Chicken Curry buns come with a kick when paired with chili oil. Curry fish balls cost just $2 and appear alongside wonton noodles and Taiwan sliced noodles for a solid curry spread.

Meals cost around $20 for two items, making it a very affordable spot. Prices stay consistently super affordable for quick snacks.

People are saying

"The dumplings here are juicy, plump, and delectable."

"You have to try the curry fish balls, they're so delicious."

"I found the prices to be super affordable."

Good to know

1

Prices are very affordable, making it great for a quick snack.

2

You can grab noodles, dumplings, buns, or $2 curry fish balls.

3

Expect a line during peak hours due to its popularity.

06
Curry House image 1
Malaysian restaurant

Spacious interior with well-lit seating and roomy tables creates a comfortable dining environment. Atmosphere feels clean and inviting, suitable for both small and large groups. The vibe is calm and friendly, offering a family-friendly setting without crowding.

Hearty, comforting curries come with sweet coconut chicken and a perfect roti. Options like curry beef stew over rice and curry noodles offer fresh, flavorful meals at reasonable prices.

Prices stay affordable across the menu. The over rice dishes offer the most budget-friendly options. Overall, the food costs remain easy on the wallet.

People are saying

"The Malaysian food here is so authentic, it reminds me of home."

"I loved the curry chicken with tender beef and potatoes."

"The food here is really affordable."

Good to know

1

Curry House serves Yee Sang during the lunar new year season.

2

The curry dishes are priced at $18+ but do not come with rice.

3

The bowl of noodles is economically priced at $13.

07
Gai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small Thai restaurant inside a bright, clean food court offers self-service with small tables and homey interior. Atmosphere feels lively and vibrant with diverse crowds, though noise levels can be high. Seating encourages relaxed dining without rush.

Red curry stands out with its rich coconut milk taste and mild spice, pairing well with chicken. Thai curry bursts with bold flavor, while curry chicken puffs come across as exceptional.

Prices stay very affordable with options like a lunch special that keeps meals budget-friendly. The food pairs authentic flavors with low cost, making it a solid choice for an affordable lunch.

People are saying

"The authentic Thai sauces here are a perfect pairing with the juicy chicken."

"I found the food here to be delicious and affordable."

"I found the red curry here to be amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

You can get a hearty bowl of delicious Hainanese chicken rice starting at $6.5.

2

A large portion at Gai Kitchen is only $10 and it comes with free soup.

3

Paying cash at the desk is the best way to avoid tax and mandatory tip.

08
Yi Ji Shi Mo image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Tiny hole-in-the-wall with standing room only and minimal outdoor seating creates a raw, chaotic vibe. Locals and tourists gather outside, forming a street food party atmosphere despite limited English spoken. Known for hand-made steamed rice rolls, it offers a genuine, no-frills experience.

Curry fish balls come with a very flavorful sauce and a generous size for the price. They pair well with rice rolls, which are noted for their insanely good quality.

Pricing stays affordable compared to nearby spots. Snacks, rice noodles, and Cantonese chueng fen all come at low prices without sacrificing taste.

People are saying

"The seafood rice rolls are silky, tender, and delicious."

"The curry fish balls are insanely good, the best I've ever had."

"These rice rolls are so soft and silky, it's unbelievable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash.

2

You should phone in and make the order for pickup to avoid the wait.

3

There is no seating available; it's take out only.

09
Yunnan Rice Noodle House image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Large space with modern Chinese decor and pop music creates a lively but sometimes hectic atmosphere. Staff are young, and service can vary, affecting the mood. Unlimited free rice noodle refills accompany hearty dishes served in boiling hot broth.

The coconut curry stands out with its special, savory soup base and a bit of spice. Dishes like the curry coconut rice noodles and fish fillet with coconut curry offer delicious, flavorful textures.

Meals cost around $16 including tax and service charge, making it very affordable. Portions include a huge appetizer and the prices are not overpriced for great food.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The coconut curry noodle soup was insanely good."

"The food here is great and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 3 AM, with the kitchen closing at 4 AM.

2

They offer a tasting experience with small plates from their entire menu.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but there's a fee for transactions under $10.

10
Kong Sihk Tong image 1
Hong Kong style fast food restaurant

Hong Kong style fast food restaurant offers a tasteful modernization of traditional 茶餐廳 with authentic local vibe and classic Chinatown setting. The space feels cramped and crowded but includes comfortable booths in the back for larger groups. It accepts only cash or Venmo for payment.

Spicy, bouncy curry fish balls stand out with a quick serving time. Large portions like the curry fish fillet rice come with green peppers, onions, and potatoes at a reasonable price.

Offers affordable prices on Hong Kong style dishes and breakfast. Stands out as one of the more budget-friendly spots in the area.

People are saying

"The golden lava toast is amazing and so buttery."

"The food here is affordable and the portions are really good."

"The curry fish balls are spicy, bouncy, and addictive."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash or Venmo for payment.

2

You will likely have to wait 20-30 minutes for a table on weekends.

3

Lunch is only served after 11:30.

11
Tonii's Fresh Rice Noodle image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, simple eatery with outdoor seating and a focus on take-out service. Atmosphere feels authentic and intimate, resembling a local hole-in-the-wall spot. Regulars include local elderly men, highlighting its affordable prices and large portions.

Curry fish balls stand out with their bouncy texture and pair well as a side dish or topping on rice rolls and noodles. The curry flavor complements the dishes, making the combination popular.

Rice noodles and Cheung fun come at very affordable prices. Service is quick and the menu offers a large variety of affordable options.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the shrimp, is so fresh and flavorful."

"I found the rice noodles to be super affordable."

"The curry fish balls were a comforting side dish."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is pick-up and takeout only.

2

Expect to wait a little since the noodles are made to order.

3

The price of the rice noodle rolls is $6.

12
Spring Cafe image 1
Vegan restaurant

Small, narrow space with limited seating and counter-style tables creates a cozy, intimate vibe. Clean, modern design pairs with impressive wall art for a welcoming feel. Noise from the blender can disrupt the otherwise calm atmosphere.

Bento boxes come with two vegetable sides like sesame broccoli and Japanese potato tofu curry that change daily. They include a large scoop of rice topped with tofu skin, an entree, and hot and sour soup, all for $14.

Affordable prices make it easy to enjoy vegan meals with good protein. Food stays consistent and offers tasty options without breaking the bank.

People are saying

"The vegan chicken and braised tofu skin noodle soup was amazing."

"I found the vegan options here to be affordable and tasty."

"The bento box curry is a crazy portion for the price."

Good to know

1

Everything on the menu is vegan, so there’s no need to probe into ingredients.

2

The restaurant is located right next to the Canal Street subway station.

3

Seating is limited, making takeout a better option during busy hours.

13
Wok Wok Noodle House image 1

Basement setting with cozy wooden furnishings creates a warm, homey atmosphere that feels distinct from typical Chinatown spots. Space suits large groups and maintains a clean, modern look with thoughtful touches like hand sanitizers on tables. The vibe balances casual comfort with an authentic Asian fusion experience.

Curry dishes feature rich sauces with options like beef brisket, chicken, and fresh vegetables. Noodles and rice pair well with green curry and white curry, often served alongside scallion roti.

Great food comes at an affordable price here. The menu offers very affordable options without skimping on quality.

People are saying

"The white curry laksa is flavorful and a meal to remember."

"The roti canai here is so good, I could eat just that."

"I found the food here to be affordable and great."

Good to know

1

Dine-in for lunch earlier in the day is recommended.

2

Customers should have cash on hand to avoid the credit card fee.

3

A 10% discount is offered for cash payments despite the use of debit or credit cards.

14
Maxi’s Noodle 3 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Long, narrow space with tight seating creates a cozy, crowded atmosphere reminiscent of Hong Kong style cafes. The place fills up quickly and feels chaotic but authentic, attracting a mix of local Chinese diners. Use of paper dishware and casual setup emphasize a no-frills dining experience.

Curry fish balls have amazing flavor and a Hong Kong style taste. The curry sauce works well with noodles and makes a quick snack option despite being a bit pricey.

Meals offer satisfying portions at affordable prices. Noodles and other dishes keep costs low without skimping on quantity.

People are saying

"The wonton noodle soup here is incredible, especially the shrimp wontons."

"The curry fish balls here are a must-try."

"I found the noodles to be affordable, with three toppings for around $13."

Good to know

1

Go at opening brunch/lunch to avoid lines.

2

Expect a longer wait for bigger groups and a shorter wait if eating alone or for a table of 2.

3

A thirty-minute time limit may apply during peak hours.

15
Yin Ji Chang Fen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern, clean space with bright, airy design and minimalistic decor featuring vibrant artwork and Chinese plaques. Atmosphere feels warm and lively, filled with people enjoying silky smooth rice noodle rolls and savory congee. Only cash payments accepted, with a noisy but upbeat vibe and well-spaced tables.

Strong, slightly spicy curry sauce stands out with super flavorful taste. Curry fish balls offer a chewy and crispy texture, paired well with the authentic curry combo including pork liver and kidney porridge.

Prices stay affordable across the menu, especially for rice rolls and congee. Food comes out fast and keeps quality without raising costs.

People are saying

"The Chinese food, especially the rice rolls, is so silky and delicious."

"The curry sauce was strong and slightly spicy."

"I found the rice rolls and congee to be very affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash.

2

Go early to avoid the long line that starts forming after 10 am.

3

During peak hours, there is always a long queue.

16
Uncle Lou 快樂人 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Spacious dining area with Asian decor featuring lanterns and a lion head on the wall creates a modern Chinatown vibe. The atmosphere is loud and lively due to popularity, making conversation challenging. Lazy Susan tables facilitate sharing dishes, enhancing the communal dining experience.

Curry dishes include spicy chicken curry and lamb curry. The chicken curry lacks creaminess from dairy or coconut milk. Duck curries and curry chicken are also served.

Prices stay very affordable with big portions. Dim sum and other dishes offer a lot of food without high cost.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is excellent, especially the Peking duck and dim sum."

"The food is great and affordable with big portions."

"The lamb curry and duck curries here were delicious."

Good to know

1

Prepare for a long wait during dinner time.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Cash payments warrant a 9% discount.

17
Noodle Village image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space fills quickly with noise and close tables, creating a cramped atmosphere. Bright, clean interior features booth seating reminiscent of Hong Kong cafes and charging stations on tables. Turtles at the entrance add a unique touch to the casual, lively vibe.

Braised beef brisket and curry tofu stand out with tender, flavorful meat and rich sauces. Noodle curry and curry beef dishes offer amazing, savory flavors often paired with rice or noodles.

Prices stay consistently affordable with fresh, tasty dumplings and delicious food options. Meals offer great value without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and comforting."

"I found the food tasty and it was affordable."

"The curry brisket is really good, with tender, flavorful meat."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on Thursday to Saturday nights.

2

Bring cash to avoid extra charges and for discounts.

3

A minimum tip of 18% is expected on all bills.

18
Mabu image 1
Hong Kong style fast food restaurant

Neon signs and mahjong-themed decor create a lively, upbeat vibe with a modern, bright atmosphere. Canto pop music and period movies add to the immersive Hong Kong cultural experience. Seating fills quickly in the compact basement space, offering a cozy yet energetic setting.

Curry here shines in curry squid tentacles and curry fish balls, both packed with flavor. Baked bread bowls filled with cheesy garlic creamy curry chicken add a rich, comforting touch.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the menu. Food items offer good value without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The French toast here is unique and delicious, especially the taro flavor."

"The curry fishballs here are pretty good."

"I found the food and prices here to be affordable."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, often over an hour, especially during peak hours.

2

Bring cash, as credit card payments incur a fee.

3

The restaurant is only open from 10 AM to 7 PM.

19
H K Wonton Garden image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with signed money notes covering the walls and a chef cooking food in front of diners. Atmosphere feels authentic Chinese and relaxing despite a loud sound level. Simple furnishings and an old-school vibe create an unpretentious setting.

Fried curry sauce brings a full flavor to the fish balls, making them delicious and distinct. The curry leans more on spice than fragrance, pairing well with dishes like beef stew and Mapo tofu.

Noodle soups cost around $7 to $8, making meals very affordable. The menu offers delicious food at prices that fit a tight budget.

People are saying

"The seafood dishes here are outstanding and flavorful."

"The food here is affordable and totally worth it."

"The curry fish balls were delicious and very good."

Good to know

1

A 30% tip is automatically added to the check.

2

The bill was not itemised, and they added tax and tips on top of it.

3

The hours of operations on Google are not accurate since they close hours earlier than what is listed.

20
Bo Ky image 1
Chinese restaurant

Old, no-frills Chinese restaurant with a nostalgic 90s interior and cramped seating. Atmosphere feels authentic and bustling, often crowded with locals and tourists sharing tables. Known for genuine Teochew flavors and cash-only transactions.

Curry dishes feature spicy broth and chewy egg noodles, often served with chicken or beef. The curry chicken noodle soup has a tiny kick and the beef curry comes with flat noodles or in a stew form.

Dishes cost between $8 and $15, which is very affordable for a downtown spot. Serving sizes come in really big portions for the price.

People are saying

"The noodle soup here tastes just like I remembered it."

"I loved the curry chicken noodle soup."

"The food here is delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only; no credit cards accepted.

2

They charge $15 for soup that is listed as $12 on the menu.

3

Mandatory tips are added to the bill without prior notice.

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