INTRODUCTION
If you walk down the winding, narrow Doyers Street in Manhattan, you will feel like you stepped back in time. This street was once known as the “Bloody Angle” because of its sharp turn and secret history. Right in the middle of this historic spot sits Nom Wah Tea Parlor, a place that has been serving hungry guests since 1920. It is the oldest continuously running dim sum restaurant in New York City. Whether you are a local or a tourist, eating here is a rite of passage. The vintage signs and red booths make it feel like a movie set. In fact, many famous movies and TV shows have been filmed right inside these walls!
What makes Nom Wah Tea Parlor so special isn’t just the history. It is the way they serve food. Most dim sum places use metal carts that roll around the room. At Nom Wah, everything is made-to-order. You get a paper menu and a pencil, and you check off exactly what you want. This means your dumplings come out steaming hot and fresh every single time. It is a friendly, bustling place where the smell of tea and fried dough fills the air. If you want to taste a piece of “Old New York,” this is the spot for you.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1920 |
| Location | 13 Doyers Street, New York, NY |
| Cuisine Type | Cantonese Dim Sum |
| Famous For | The “Original” Egg Roll & Roast Pork Buns |
| Payment | Cash Only (or American Express) |
| Vibe | Vintage 1950s Diner Style |
The Rich History of Nom Wah Tea Parlor
The nom wah tea parlor history is a story of family and change. It first opened as a bakery and tea house over a hundred years ago. Back then, it was famous for its mooncakes. In the 1950s, a young man named Wally Tang started working there. He worked so hard that he eventually bought the restaurant in 1974. Wally kept the traditions alive for decades. In 2010, his nephew, Wilson Tang, took over the business. Wilson updated the kitchen and the menu but kept the beautiful vintage look. Today, it remains a family-run gem in the heart of Chinatown.
Exploring the Iconic Nom Wah Tea Parlor NYC Location
Finding nom wah tea parlor nyc is half the fun. It is tucked away on nom wah tea parlor doyers street new york ny, a street with a unique “C” shape. This area was once the center of old-world Chinatown. When you stand outside, you will see the classic yellow and red sign that has been there for ages. The street is now often decorated with colorful lanterns, making it a perfect spot for nom wah tea parlor photos. It is more than just a restaurant; it is a landmark that tells the story of the Chinese immigrant experience in America.
A Look at the Nom Wah Tea Parlor Menu
The nom wah tea parlor menu is full of delicious treasures. Because they don’t use carts, the menu is very easy to read. You will find sections for steamed dumplings, fried snacks, and rice rolls. They even have some “chef’s specials” that you won’t find anywhere else. Prices are very fair for New York City, which is why it is so popular. You can order a few small plates to share with friends, which is the best way to eat dim sum. Don’t forget to order a pot of hot tea to wash it all down!
Best Things to Order Nom Wah Tea Parlor
If it is your first time, you might wonder about the best things to order nom wah tea parlor. You absolutely must try the “Original” Egg Roll. It is not like a normal egg roll; it is wrapped in an egg crepe and fried until it is super crunchy. Another favorite is the House Special Roast Pork Bun. These buns are huge, fluffy, and filled with sweet, savory meat. The shrimp and snow pea leaf dumplings are also a big hit. They are translucent and very delicate. If you like something unique, try the stuffed eggplant filled with shrimp and squid.
How to Get Nom Wah Tea Parlor Reservations
Knowing about nom wah tea parlor reservations is very important because the line can be long! On weekends, people wait for over an hour just to get a seat. Luckily, you can book a table for small parties (usually 3 to 5 people) through the Resy app. If you are just two people, you will likely have to be a walk-in. My best tip is to go on a weekday morning or right when they open. The nom wah tea parlor hours are usually 11 AM to 9 PM daily, but it is always good to check their website for updates.
Reading Through Nom Wah Tea Parlor Reviews
If you look at nom wah tea parlor reviews, you will see a lot of love for the atmosphere. People enjoy the “hidden” feel of the restaurant. Some nom wah tea parlor review writers mention that it can be a bit touristy, but most agree the food is worth it. Food critics from major magazines have praised the restaurant for staying true to its roots. While there are “fancier” dim sum spots in the city, Nom Wah wins on charm and history. It is a place where memories are made over baskets of dumplings.
What to Order at Nom Wah Tea Parlor for Beginners
If you are new to dim sum, here is what to order at nom wah tea parlor to have the best experience. Start with the basics: Siu Mai (pork and shrimp dumplings) and Har Gow (shrimp dumplings). These are the “gold standard” of dim sum. Next, try the pan-fried noodles for a bit of crunch. If you are feeling brave, the chicken feet are a traditional delicacy! For dessert, the sesame balls with red bean paste are sweet and chewy. Ordering a variety of textures—steamed, fried, and baked—is the secret to a perfect meal.
Is Nom Wah Tea Parlor Cash Only?
A common question travelers ask is: “Is nom wah tea parlor cash only?” The answer is mostly yes! For a long time, they only took cash. Today, they usually accept American Express as well, but it is much safer to bring plenty of cash. This helps keep the service moving fast in such a busy environment. There are ATMs nearby in Chinatown if you forget, but it is easier to come prepared. Remember to bring enough for a tip, as the staff works very hard to keep the tea flowing!
Nom Wah Tea Parlor Michelin Recognition
While it is a casual spot, the nom wah tea parlor michelin connection is real. It has been featured in the Michelin Guide as a recommended place to eat. It doesn’t have a “star,” but it is recognized for its high quality and cultural importance. Being “Michelin-recommended” is a big deal for a small parlor on a side street. It shows that the chefs take great care in making their dumplings. This recognition has helped bring even more fans to nom wah tea parlor chinatown nyc from all over the world.
The Expansion: Nom Wah Tea Parlor Las Vegas and Beyond
The brand is growing! There is now a nom wah tea parlor las vegas location for people on the West Coast. It is located in the Rampart Casino and brings the same classic flavors to Nevada. There have also been spots like nom wah tea parlor nolita and even a location in Philadelphia. While the original nom wah tea parlor chinatown will always be the heart of the brand, these new locations make it easier for people to get their dumpling fix. It is exciting to see a hundred-year-old business grow into a modern success.
Conclusion
Nom Wah Tea Parlor is more than just a place to eat; it is a living museum. From the history of the “Bloody Angle” to the delicious “OG” egg rolls, it offers an experience you can’t find anywhere else. It represents the heart of nom wah tea parlor new york—resilient, flavorful, and full of character. Whether you are visiting the original spot on Doyers Street or the new location in Vegas, you are participating in a tradition that has lasted a century. So, grab some cash, call your friends, and get ready for some of the best dim sum in the world!
