A Day in Chinatown with Documentary Film Director Nicolas Heller (@newyorknico)
Welcome to a the latest installment of our mini series “A Day in Chinatown with…” where our favorite New Yorkers, part-time New Yorkers and/or New York fanatics share with us their favorite Chinatown spots. There is so much to explore and love about Chinatown; every corner of the neighborhood has its gems.
Our next guest is Nicolas Heller, otherwise known as New York Nico or New York City’s Unofficial Talent Scout. A storyteller and hypeman for New York City, Nico showcases the most interesting individuals in New York City. A frequent patron of Chinatown establishments, Nico shared with us his favorite Chinatown spots and why.
LUNCH & DINNER
Nom Wah is my go-to place for an authentic dim sum experience, and not just because the owner, Wilson, is a good friend of mine! All the classics are there: shrimp, chicken, or pork siu mai, scallion pancakes, fried or steamed dumplings, and if you’re feeling adventurous, chicken feet.
When I’m craving noodles, I head straight for my favorite noodle spot: Great NY Noodletown. They have some of the best noodle soups you’ll find in the city, but don’t forget to try the congee and soy sauce chicken over rice.
If it’s late, you’re hungry, and you want to grab a few drinks – get yourself over to Dr Clark. This is the first Hokkaido restaurant in NYC, and if you’re looking for a unique experience with great good, karaoke, and Japanese whisky, this place is as real as it gets. My favorite dish there is the Ramen Salad – try it once and you’ll come back for more.
TEA & SHOPPING
Sun’s Organic Garden is my favorite place to get loose leaf tea in New York City. They have popular teas like jasmine green and Earl Grey, as well as rare and exotic blends to suit your health and dietary needs. If you want high quality teas, I definitely recommend Sun’s Organic Garden.
Oro Latino Jewelry is great place to go for a huge selection of gold, silver, diamond, and platinum jewelry. I’ve done business with Tommy before, and he’s hands down the best jeweler in the game. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and will help find the perfect piece for you. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, they also specialize in making custom jewelry.
Chinatown Fair remains a nostalgic beacon for lovers of competitive fighting games, DDR, ski ball, and more. I grew up coming to this place, and every time I visit, I feel like I’m a kid again. Arcades may have faded from this neighborhood, but I’m hoping this one sticks around for a long time.
QUICK BITES
46 Mott – Everyone knows 46 Mott, and to me, the manager, Patrick, is the king of Chinatown. This bakery is a staple for traditional Chinese bakery goods, both sweet and savory. One of the few places that offer year-round zongzi and house-made tofu pudding. You need to try their pork buns and sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves. 46 Mott Street
Joe's Shanghai – Hands down the best soup dumplings in NYC. I love how the chefs make them where everyone can see, so you know they’re bringing you the freshest, tastiest dumplings you’ll ever have. This is my favorite spot to go to for lunch on the weekends. 46 Bowery Street
Chinatown Ice Cream Factory – Having been in business for 43 years, this iconic ice cream shop offers an amazing selection of flavors based on classic Chinese desserts. I came here as a kid, I come here as an adult. Where else can you find red bean ice cream? They even have a flavor based on the Chinese egg custard tart. 65 Bayard Street
