Explore Long Island City’s Thriving Chinatown Culinary Scene
Long Island City is emerging as a vibrant destination for food lovers, particularly for those interested in experiencing Chinatown’s culinary scene. This newly formed enclave in the Dutch Kills neighborhood features a mix of contemporary dining establishments primarily centered around diverse Chinese cuisines.
Exploring Long Island City’s Thriving Chinatown Culinary Scene
Unlike the historic Chinatowns of Lower Manhattan and Flushing, Long Island City’s Chinatown is characterized by modern architecture, including numerous residential buildings with restaurants located on the ground floor. Currently, approximately 30 Chinese restaurants populate this area, many of which are branches of well-known chains from mainland China and Taiwan.
Diverse Culinary Offerings
- Sichuan and Hunan Influences: The menus here are distinct, often featuring spicy dishes that showcase Sichuan peppercorns, wheat noodles, and barbecued skewers. Offal dishes, including chicken gizzards and pig ears, are also common.
- Signature Establishments: The following restaurants exemplify the diversity and richness of the culinary offerings in this new Chinatown:
Top Dining Spots
- Red Sorghum: Opened in 2024, this upscale dining spot explores Hunan and Sichuan cuisine. Main courses range from $18 to $88, with unique cocktails featured.
- Fer: Located at 41-10 29th St., Fer offers rice and egg noodle bowls starting at $14, with inventive options like “juicy lamb” and “heavenly intestines.”
- Hunan Tapas: This casual spot serves dishes like ma po tofu for under $20 and features a $12.99 lunch special.
- Gulp: A lunch counter known for Taiwanese fare, offering trays packed with spicy beef soup and chicken rice, priced between $20 and $27.
- Jiang Nan: Known for its pan-regional cuisine, main dishes here range from $25 to $45.
- Dun Huang: Specializing in hand-pulled Lanzhou noodles from Gansu province, offerings start at $14.
- LIC Food Hall: A compact food court with multiple vendors serving a wide selection, highlighting Chinatown’s culinary diversity.
- Koufuku Mart: An affordable Chinese and Japanese supermarket with a dining area, offering combinations of freshly made dishes over rice.
- Naisnow: This tea parlor specializes in unique beverages and pastries, appealing to a health-conscious crowd.
Accessibility
Long Island City is conveniently connected by public transportation, with key subway stations like Queens Plaza and Queensboro Plaza nearby. This accessibility makes it easy to explore the culinary richness of this burgeoning Chinatown.
As Long Island City continues to grow and evolve, its emerging Chinatown offers an exciting culinary journey worth experiencing for both locals and visitors alike.
