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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Modern food spots in Chinatown

Modern food that feels current, rather than just another tired take on the same old menu.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Yakiniku Toraji An image 1
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Japanese restaurant

Japanese BBQ restaurant offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere with soft jazz music and elegant, cozy décor. Spacious dining area suits both romantic dinners and company gatherings. Known for high-quality Wagyu and tender beef, it provides a refined yet inviting dining experience.

Food features a traditional and innovative Japanese cuisine with dishes meticulously prepared using the finest ingredients. The menu showcases the chef's creativity and dedication, delivering outstanding quality in every bite.

A sleek and modern vibe defines the atmosphere, blending romantic and comfortable elements seamlessly.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and tasty."

"The Japanese BBQ here has top-tier meat quality."

"The thick cut beef tongue here is tender and delicious."

Good to know

1

You can bring in alcohol since they have not yet obtained a liquor license.

2

The $98 tasting menu is a solid choice for a special meal.

3

Lunch sets are highly recommended for a good meal at a reasonable price.

02
Phoenix Palace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern banquet hall design blends with theater motifs and vintage family photos to create a trendy Hong Kong vibe. Bright lighting and a lively atmosphere mix with creative Chinese decor for a cool, hip dining experience. The space attracts groups seeking Cantonese seafood in a stylish, authentic setting.

Asian dishes stand out with delicious flavors and a modern twist on traditional recipes. The food offers a unique experience not found elsewhere, paired with attentive service.

A modern twist blends with traditional Cantonese dishes, creating a harmonious dining experience. The decor reflects a modern take on classic banquet halls, capturing an authentic Chinatown story.

People are saying

"It's a modern, creative twist on traditional Chinese dishes."

"The lobster sticky rice has great texture and lots of flavor."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand for special occasions.

2

Customers should bring their own dessert as the restaurant does not offer any.

3

Portion sizes are small, so consider sharing dishes with your group.

03
Norimen image 1
Korean restaurant

Modern Korean restaurant offers a warm, stylish atmosphere with bright, clean design and a super chill vibe. Guests find the space intentionally designed and welcoming, creating a relaxed but special experience. Unique cocktails and authentic dishes complement the inviting setting.

Food offers unique flavors at reasonable prices. The salmon stands out with fine dining quality, and the bartender guides well through the menu.

Ambience feels modern, clean, and open, offering a nice escape from the heat. Music adds a very modern and uplifting vibe to the dining environment.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and really fresh."

"I found the decor and atmosphere to be very modern and pleasing."

"The cocktails are unique, refreshing, and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes between lunch and dinner, reopening at 4 PM.

2

Parking in Chinatown is limited; consider using a nearby garage.

3

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome during dinner hours.

04
Kono image 1
Yakitori restaurant

Open fire grill anchors a sleek, intimate space with a U-shaped chef's counter and old school hip hop beats. Atmosphere blends relaxed energy with charcoal smoke aroma, creating a clubby, posh vibe. Guests engage closely with charismatic chef while savoring creative yakitori and distinctive cocktails.

Food centers around excellent yakitori grilled over an open flame with creative and delicious flavors. Service stays professional and attentive, enhancing the overall dining experience.

A modern, chic environment sets the stage for authentic yakitori with a twist. The menu blends traditional yakitori with fusion items that offer a fresh contrast.

People are saying

"I found the yakitori here to be delicious and perfectly prepared."

"I found the food here to be delicious and perfectly prepared."

"The modern yakitori here is the best I've had anywhere."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is reservation-only.

2

You must wait outside until the host lets you in, even with a reservation.

3

Walking out of the door takes around $250 minimum (drinks, tax, and tips).

05
Cafe Diem NYC image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop blends traditional Chinese elements with modern aesthetics in a space filled with natural light and wood paneling. Atmosphere stays quiet and serene, inviting work or relaxed conversation. Patrons enjoy a calming vibe with soft music and views of the city.

Excellent food and coffee selection stands out here. The Cappuccino is a highlight, and the cup design adds a fun touch for food photos.

Interior blends traditional Chinese elements with a warm, modern style. Natural light fills the space, creating a bright atmosphere with elegant touches alongside contemporary design.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the coffee because it was creamy, sweet, and strong."

"I thought the food and coffee were delicious."

"It's a cozy spot with a modern touch, perfect for catching up."

Good to know

1

The café offers free wifi for customers.

2

Restrooms are available for customer use.

3

The pistachio matcha costs $10.

06
Hakata TonTon image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Spacious, modern interior combines minimalist design with green neon accents and bonsai displays. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and relaxing at lunch to lively and noisy in the evening. Small, Izakaya-style dishes and theatrical food presentations create an energetic dining experience.

Curated and unique dishes offer a taste of Japanese soul food not found elsewhere. The theatrics of shaking the ramen add a fun touch to the overall dining experience.

Small and cozy with a modern Japanese flair, the restaurant features clean, updated decor and serves food with a modern twist on authentic styles.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious, especially the dumplings and ramen."

"The food here is delicious, quick, and fresh."

"I loved the modern Japanese flair and unique, visually appealing food."

Good to know

1

Reservations at Hakata TonTon are highly recommended as they fill up fast.

2

It is suggested to arrive a bit early to avoid a long wait.

3

Expect small portions; you will need two dishes per person to be full.

07
G-Gallery image 1
Art gallery

Space combines contemporary art with cutting-edge technology including interactive exhibits and a robot dog. Atmosphere feels stylish and inspiring, balancing spaciousness with intimacy. Lighting, sound, and AV systems support creative events and immersive experiences.

Delicious food serves as a highlight, offering more than enough for everyone. The event pairs great ambiance with excellent drinks and gracious hosting that ensures comfort and refreshment.

Large space showcases modern art and tech lighting. Design blends projection capabilities with artistic flair for an inviting vibe.

People are saying

"It's a unique, creative space with an inspiring, artistic atmosphere."

"The space feels modern, creative, and stunning with cool art and tech."

"The food here was delicious and plentiful."

Good to know

1

G-Gallery is a unique, upscale venue suitable for hosting events.

2

The venue features a state-of-the-art video production studio for professional shoots.

3

G-Gallery is located off Canal Street in SoHo, near public transportation.

08
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.

Cantonese food stands out for its high quality and fantastic flavors. Every visit delivers consistently amazing dishes that highlight authentic Chinese cuisine.

Ambience features a stunning modern aesthetic that stands out in Chinatown. The menu offers modern Chinese food that blends traditional flavors with contemporary style.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious, especially the peking duck."

"I loved the modern Chinese food, especially the duck and sea bass."

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.

09
Au Cheval image 1
New American restaurant

Graffiti-adorned alley leads into a modern, rustic space with dim lighting and upbeat ambiance. A lively atmosphere fills the restaurant, with a secret speakeasy bar downstairs offering a more intimate setting. The place draws a crowd that appreciates a cozy yet trendy vibe.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and consistent delivery. The menu features American dishes served with amazing service that complements the dining experience.

Sizable interior with a cool vibe blends modern and rustic décor. Upbeat ambiance creates a warm and inviting space.

People are saying

"You have to try these burgers; they're perfectly cooked and juicy."

"The food here, especially the burgers, is amazing and worth trying."

"The burgers here are juicy, perfectly cooked, and have great flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to avoid long waits, especially during peak hours.

2

The wait to get in is about 20-25 minutes depending on party size.

3

The speakeasy operates from 6-11 pm on certain days downstairs.

10
Paper Sons Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with modern, sleek design and historical Chinese imagery on the walls creates a charming, inviting atmosphere. Large windows offer street views that connect indoor calm with bustling energy outside. Plenty of seating and strong WiFi support a mix of work and relaxation.

Food features fantastic quality with delicious crema on coffee and appetizing non-caffeinated options for all ages. Local food options complement a menu that suits a casual break during food hopping.

Space feels modern and sleek with a clean look. It blends a cute ambiance while respecting the Chinatown community.

People are saying

"This cafe is so cute and cozy, a perfect chill oasis."

"The homemade mooncakes are dense, flavorful, and flaky."

"It's clean, modern, and sleek inside."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers 50% off on pastries during a specific time.

2

The cafe exclusively carries Black 6 Coffee, a veteran-owned brand.

3

There is reliable wifi available for customers.

11
MJ (Manny Janeth) Café image 1

Cozy café with large windows and abundant plants creates a bright, inviting space. Chill atmosphere features live DJ sets and good music, attracting people who enjoy relaxed vibes and working with Wi-Fi. Seating is spacious compared to typical small cafés, enhancing comfort for study or casual visits.

Food and drinks come out tasting consistently good with great flavor and solid quality.

Modern decor sets a clean and stylish tone. The café offers a cozy atmosphere paired with modern music that complements the vibe.

People are saying

"It's a great work-friendly spot with solid Wi-Fi and plenty of seating."

"It's a modern and cozy coffee shop."

"The food, especially the avocado toast, was incredible."

Good to know

1

Wifi is available for customers to use.

2

The cafe is a great spot for working or studying.

3

The restrooms are clean and well-maintained.

12
Bridges image 1
French restaurant

Space combines modern mid-century vibe with meticulous design and excellent lighting, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Small dining rooms and a low-key bar foster a lively yet intimate energy, though acoustics can challenge conversation. Unique, balanced cocktails complement inventive, standout dishes like duck breast and uni custard.

Food features a unique, inventive approach with dishes that are thoughtfully prepared and incredibly tasty. The duck stands out as a highlight among the excellent offerings.

Sleek and warm vibes mix with cherry wood, steel, and glass block tiles. The space shows a modern mid-century style that feels cozy and attractive.

People are saying

"The gelato for dessert was perfect."

"The food here is divine, unique, and thoughtfully balanced."

"The Modern dishes here are spectacular and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended as this restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant accommodates families, making it baby-friendly.

3

The menu may contain undisclosed ingredients, so ask about allergens.

13
Corima image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Open kitchen reveals chefs at work, creating an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere with earthy warmth and cozy booths. Lighting is dim, sometimes requiring candles to see plates, while seating prioritizes style over comfort. Loud music fills the space, making conversation challenging but adding to the vibrant energy.

Mexican cuisine gets a fine dining twist with experimental dishes like kimchi ice with razor clams and masa miso tart. The food blends craft and aesthetic with soulful roots, offering a tasting journey beyond traditional flavors.

Dishes show precision and creativity using fresh ingredients and modern techniques rooted in Mexican cuisine. The atmosphere feels modern yet intimate.

People are saying

"The food, especially the lobster, was grilled whole yet incredibly delicate."

"The tasting menu was simply exceptional from start to finish."

"The food's bold flavors were surprising and perfectly executed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to high demand.

2

The restaurant offers a seven-course tasting menu with drink pairing options.

3

Expect a dining experience of over three hours for the tasting menu.

14
Chinese Tuxedo image 1
Chinese restaurant

Dim lighting and a large open space create a loud, lively atmosphere that feels both intimate and exciting. The venue combines posh, well-designed interiors with a secret speakeasy lounge downstairs for after-dinner gatherings.

Offers a top-tier dining experience with delicious and beautifully presented food. The menu features fine dining Chinese dishes that stand out for their quality and taste.

Ambiance blends upscale and modern with a touch of tradition. Execution mixes classic Chinese inspiration with contemporary style.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the oxtail buns."

"The service at these dinner spots is professional and friendly."

"The food here is modern, creative, and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for parties of 8 or more.

2

You need to book this spot two weeks in advance to secure a table.

3

For parties of 8 or more, the $88 per person tasting menu is required.

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.

Authentic Cantonese-style comfort food shines here with dishes like chang fen, curry fish balls, and pork with preserved duck egg congee. The menu also features Hong Kong breakfast options with flavors that are both delicious and true to tradition.

Bright, airy space with clean lines and well-spaced tables creates a modern feel inside.

People are saying

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

"The rice rolls here are delicious and generously portioned."

"The modern rice rolls here are soft and chewy with generous fillings."

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
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.

Food features delicious, creative dishes with clear Hong Kong characteristics. Presentation is very creative and the menu innovates traditional Cantonese into a new American style.

Neon aesthetics and mahjong tile tables create a bright, modern vibe. Retro Hong Kong elements blend with clean, contemporary decor for a unique atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The food here is flavorful and pretty good."

"I loved their modern take on Hong Kong street food, especially the laksa."

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.

17
Hotel 50 Bowery - JDV by Hyatt image 1

Rooftop bar offers 360-degree panoramic views and a lively atmosphere with music late into the night. Rooms feature artsy decor and quality furniture, providing a quiet retreat despite the city's bustle. Lounge amenities include complimentary drinks and facilities for outside food, enhancing comfort and convenience.

Surrounded by endless food options in Chinatown and beyond, the area offers amazing food just steps away. The hotel itself serves great food and sits close to a vibrant food scene.

Rooms feature modern design with crisp, clean lines. They offer quiet, spacious comfort with good noise insulation.

People are saying

"The hotel staff was so warm, friendly, and always ready to help."

"The staff here is so warm and welcoming."

"The breakfast food here is simple but of great quality."

Good to know

1

A $35/day 'destination fee' is added to the bill.

2

The hotel does not offer breakfast service on-site but rather through an external place.

3

Only one elevator is running for 20 floors, leading to long wait times.

18
Walker Hotel Tribeca image 1

Underground bars and a rooftop flower shop create a mix of speakeasy charm and vibrant views. Rooms are tiny and chic, with layouts that maximize limited space. Lobby and bars offer relaxed, stylish settings with a lively, noisy atmosphere.

Excellent service and quality food stand out at the restaurant and coffee bar. The hotel offers good food, coffee, and drinks on site, with many dining options just steps away in Chinatown.

Rooms feature compact, neat design with a spacious modern shower and a king bed. The overall style is very clean and stylish, reflecting an up-to-date, luxurious feel.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here are truly exceptional and make you feel so welcomed."

"I loved the great view from the 8th floor."

"The food here is delicious, especially the risotto."

Good to know

1

The hotel charges a mandatory resort fee of $40 per night.

2

Expect cleanliness issues; rooms may not meet hygiene standards.

3

WiFi is very slow, making it hard to work from the hotel.

19
Joe's Shanghai image 1
Shanghainese restaurant

Shanghainese restaurant with loud, crowded atmosphere and modern, spacious interior attracts a younger crowd. Known for outstanding soup dumplings and family-style service with round tables. Cash-only policy with an ATM at the entrance.

Authentic Asian food comes out quickly and tastes spectacular. The dining experience feels friendly and clean with very good food throughout.

Bright, clean spaces with modern decor create a pleasant and posh ambiance. The large room feels open and well-decorated, emphasizing a sober style.

People are saying

"The crab and pork soup dumplings are fantastic and full of flavor."

"The food here is amazing, especially the dumplings."

"I thought the soup dumplings were still good and worth trying."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash payments; no credit or debit cards.

2

The restaurant only takes walk-ins and does not accept reservations.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait during busy evening hours.

20
Wonton Noodle image 1
Chinese restaurant

Brightly lit space with modern decor and cushiony booths creates a cozy, authentic vibe. Clean and comfortable environment suits casual dining with options like communal tables and bar stools. Atmosphere stays chill and inviting, avoiding tourist crowds.

Delicious Cantonese dishes come in large portions with excellent flavor. The food pairs well with the nice ambiance and consistent quality.

Clean and modern interior sets the tone. Bathrooms are decent, and prices stay reasonable despite the sleek design.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the noodles and duck."

"These dumplings are the best I've ever had."

"The beef brisket here was superior and tender."

Good to know

1

Wonton Noodle closes early, so check their hours if you want to dine slowly.

2

The restaurant relocated to Pell Street, which is a 30-second walk away.

3

Expect a $3 tip added to your bill without consent on small orders.

21
Artbean Coffee Roasters image 1

Tiny coffee shop with outdoor seating on a quiet pedestrian alley features rotating local Asian art and Asian-inspired latte flavors. The vibe is hip and artsy, with a colorful interior and occasional live DJ. It offers a cozy, community-oriented atmosphere ideal for relaxing or chatting.

Limited to small pastries and typical baked goods, the food options focus on Asian drinks and flavors. The ube and pandan mochi are notably sticky, with ube coming from a sauce rather than natural form.

Super cute shop with local artwork and a modern vibe fits right into the classic Chinatown street. It captures the NYC energy of modern Chinatown perfectly.

People are saying

"I thought the ube latte was amazing."

"Their Modern Pandan Latte is a must-try unique blend."

"The ube latte here is great and the double shot is strong."

Good to know

1

Baked goods are 40% off after 4 PM.

2

The coffee shop only has outdoor seating.

3

There is limited indoor seating at the café.

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Chinatown, New York

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