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 is good, but the soup dumplings are far and away the highlight. 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.

This place is all about the Pho, a classic rice-noodle soup of the region. With not much of an atmosphere and not many other choices 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.

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.

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.