Evergreen Shanghai
Address: 63 Mott (between Canal & Bayard Street)
Phone: 212-571-3339
If you don't feel like waiting for Joe's and have a hankering for authentic dumplings, try this place. Some argue they're actually better. Evergreen also offers a number of other interesting dishes, ranging from meatballs to poultry. If you're a real fan, you'll be happy to hear there are a couple more locations in midtown.
Fried Dumpling
Address: 99 Allen Street (corner of Broome Street)
Phone: 212-941-9975
Since we're talking dumplings, I had to mention this place. This little nothing of a place specializes in delicious pork dumplings. They are served up fast, hot and super, super cheap. The atmosphere can be extremely hectic, and this is not a place for casual sit-down dining. But it's definitely part of the true Chinatown experience.
Possibly the most famous Chinese dumpling house in the city, the reason is the authentic soupy dumplings. The moist pork and crab fillings make these little items truly notable. The rest of the menu isn't quite as good but not bad. Expect to share a communal table and to have to wait. Joe's is still extremely popular.
Yes, there are a few non-Chinese restaurants even in Chinatown. This is one of the more interesting. It's a Franco-African place that invokes distant memories of empires and colonies gone by. The atmosphere is inviting and the food on the spicy side, but they also serve a nice lobster bisque and sea bass. Don't be afraid to ask the wait staff questions. Unless you're already familiar with Korhogotefemougar.
The name says it all. This is another specialty place. Sit down and order any variation of this classic Asian poultry dish and you'll be more than satisfied. Choices include duck pancakes, duck stir-fry and straight up duck entrées. The atmosphere is less hectic than most Chinese places in the area. They have other items on the menu, but vegetarians notwithstanding, if you come here, go duck.
Pho Bang
Address: 157 Mott (off of Grand Street)
Phone: 212-966-3797
This place is all about the Pho. No atmosphere and little other choice on the menu. It's Pho all the way. Luckily, they do it in so many variations and with such flair that it continues to pack in the loyal patrons. Inexpensive, efficient and delicious. One for Pho and Pho for all!
Pho Viet Huong
Address: 73 Mulberry (off of Grand Street)
Phone: 212-233-8988
Vietnamese food extraordinaire. The rustic, thatched hut setting of this authentic eatery rivals the outstanding Vietnamese specialties themselves. Pho, the classic rice-noodle soups of the region, are served in several varieties here. There's also a wide selection of meat specialties, including one that includes seven different types of beef entrées on one plate.
Ten Ren's Teatime
Address: 79 Mott Street (off of Canal Street)
Phone: 212-349-2286
Hot tea. Cold tea. Tapioca bubble tea. You get the idea. This place is actually affiliated with Ten Ren Company, which has been specializing in Asian teas for more than 50 years. There is also a small selection of Chinese pastries and other snacks to go along with your beverage of choice.