When people think of New York’s Chinatown, the one in Manhattan is usually the first that comes to mind. With over a century of history, it stands as a home for the Chinese diaspora and a cultural landmark rich in Chinese food and tradition.
But in the past decade, new Chinatowns have emerged across other boroughs of New York. Flushing, in Queens, has quickly become a major destination for recent Chinese immigrants, bringing with them a new wave of regional culinary specialties. Unlike Manhattan’s Chinatown, known for its Cantonese and Fujianese flavors, Flushing mirrors the energy of younger immigrants and international students. Here, you’ll find a miniature version of a bustling modern Chinese city.
RADII invited you to come and explore the culinary delights of Flushing’s Chinatown!
The Hotpot Chapter
In Chinese dining culture, the most important element is sharing. All the dishes are placed in the center of the table with no individual plates, and no dish embodies this more than hot pot. In Flushing, you’ll find more than a dozen unique hot pot restaurants within a one-mile radius.
Of course, there’s Haidilao, the internationally beloved chain known for its exceptional service and premium ingredients. But for something more regional, check out Chongqing Lao Zao. It offers a throwback to late-20th-century Chongqing, with fiery, tongue-numbing broths not meant for the faint of heart.
Nanshan Hot Pot offers a charming, family-friendly, panda-themed experience, while SuanQ Guizhou Hot Pot specializes in Guizhou’s signature sour broth made from fermented tomatoes and chilies.
There’s also Coco Hotpot from tropical China, where the server will crack coconuts right in front of you. The broth is made entirely from coconut water simmered with fresh chicken; it’s so rich and fragrant, definitely unlike anything else you’ve tasted.
Classic Chinese Bakeries
Chinese bakeries have long been an essential part of the neighborhood. It’s affordable, convenient, and perfect for a quick bite before work. Taipan Bakery, founded in 1990, remains one of the most beloved. Their sponge cakes, pineapple buns, and steamed buns have all stood the test of time. Fay Da Bakery and Apollo Bakery are also community staples serving classic Cantonese-style breads.
For a modern take, try SHAKALAKA BAKERY, a shop offering trendy, photogenic pastries and cakes in flavors like chestnut, ube, pistachio, and durian.
Tea, No Bubbles
Chinese bubble tea has evolved far beyond simple milk tea with tapioca pearls. These days, many “bubble tea” (or “boba tea“) shops don’t emphasize the bubbles—they focus on the tea itself. And in Flushing, they’re everywhere, making it the perfect destination for a tea crawl.
Many of China’s largest tea chains have landed here in recent years. The most popular is HEYTEA, known for high-quality teas with a tropical twist, featuring ingredients like fresh mango, coconut, and guava.
Across the street is Molly Tea, which has had a perpetual queue since it opened. Their teas are exceptionally fragrant and not overly sweet. First-timers can’t go wrong with the Snowy Jasmine, a jasmine milk tea topped with soft jasmine cream and pecans.
If you’re more of a coffee drinker, don’t miss OFF-PEAK COFFEE. This specialty shop offers tea-infused cold brews. Try the Rooicoco for something sweet and creamy, or the Berry Jazz for a tart and refreshing kick.
Regional Cuisines
For the taste of northeastern China, head to Guobaorou, where the decor will remind you of a cozy family-run shop in the coldest parts of China. Expect hearty, meat-heavy dishes that are as satisfying as they are affordable.
Dim sum lovers have plenty of choices in Flushing, but Asian Jewels stands out for its variety, freshness, and recognition in the Michelin Guide.
For Shanghai cuisine, Red House Restaurant serves excellent braised pork, smoked fish, and a wide selection of dumplings.
Hunan Noodle brings the flavors of Hunan Province, with tender braised beef, chewy rice noodles, and the region’s signature spicy, fermented stinky tofu.
And if you’re craving Hong Kong-style wonton noodles, Maxi’s Noodle is the place. Their duck-egg noodles are thin yet springy, with toppings like wontons, dumplings, fish balls, and more.
Street Food Under $10
To wrap up our Flushing food tour, check out the neighborhood’s many casual, no-frills street food gems. Delicious and all under $10.
Eight Jane is a must-visit, serving classic Chinese breakfast items such as fried dough sticks, pork buns, and their famous scallion pancakes.
Another hidden treasure is Soy Bean Chan Flower & Gift Shop. Yes, it’s a flower shop—but it also sells fresh tofu pudding. A small bowl is just $3, with your choice of savory pickled toppings or sweet honey syrup.
Finally, visit the food courts at New World Mall or New York Food Court. Both are packed with affordable stalls offering an endless variety of regional specialities. Just be ready for a big crowd of locals and tourists.
The best part? ALL shops mentioned above are within walking distance!
So, enjoy your Chinatown culinary adventure, and don’t forget to check out this curated Google Maps guide to help you eat your way through Flushing!
Cover image via Moren Mao
