Nom Wah Tea Parlor

Nestled in the historic heart of Chinatown at 13 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013, USA, Nom Wah Tea Parlor holds the distinguished title of being the oldest dim sum restaurant in the neighborhood. With a legacy spanning generations, this Chinese restaurant offers a unique opportunity to savor traditional dim sum and other delectable dishes in an establishment steeped in history. You can contact them at (212) 962-6047 or their mobile number +1 212-962-6047.

The environment of Nom Wah Tea Parlor is not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews, but the fact that it's described as Chinatown's oldest dim sum spot suggests a setting that likely blends historical charm with the bustling atmosphere of a popular eatery. One reviewer mentioned visiting on a Monday night and having "no issues getting a table," which might indicate that while it's a well-regarded institution, seating availability can vary depending on the time and day. The overall impression is that the focus is on the culinary experience and the restaurant's rich history, rather than a modern or overly elaborate ambiance.

In terms of services, Nom Wah Tea Parlor is praised for its "fast" service. This efficiency is particularly valuable for diners eager to sample a variety of dim sum dishes without a lengthy wait. The restaurant caters to both smaller and larger groups, as evidenced by a party of three dining comfortably and affordably. The mention of being able to get a table on a Monday night suggests that while it's a popular destination, it can accommodate diners without excessive delays, at least on certain evenings.

A significant feature of Nom Wah Tea Parlor is its specialization in dim sum, a Cantonese cuisine involving a wide range of small, savory and sweet dishes typically served with tea. The reviews highlight several "must-have" items that showcase the quality and authenticity of their offerings:

• Pork Buns: These are frequently mentioned as a standout dish, indicating their popularity and likely their traditional preparation and delicious flavor. Pork buns are a staple of dim sum, often featuring a fluffy steamed bun filled with savory barbecued pork.
• Chicken Soup Dumplings: Another highly recommended item, soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) are delicate pouches filled with flavorful broth and seasoned meat. The fact that these are specifically highlighted as "great" suggests they are a well-executed specialty.
• Shrimp and Chive Dumplings: These translucent dumplings, filled with succulent shrimp and fragrant chives, are also praised, indicating a mastery of classic dim sum fillings and textures.
• Egg Fried Rice: While seemingly simple, the reviewer notes that the egg fried rice was "simple and oh-so-well-done." This highlights the importance of skillful execution even in seemingly basic dishes, suggesting a focus on quality ingredients and proper cooking techniques.

Beyond these specific dishes, the fact that the reviewer mentioned "plenty of options for Dim Sum" implies a comprehensive menu with a wide variety of choices to cater to different tastes and preferences. This is a key characteristic of a traditional tea parlor, where the experience revolves around sampling numerous small plates.

Affordability is another significant feature of Nom Wah Tea Parlor. One group of three diners enjoyed a satisfying meal for a total of $60, with none of them leaving hungry. This price point suggests that Nom Wah offers excellent value, making it an accessible option for locals and visitors alike who are looking to experience authentic dim sum without incurring a high cost. The combination of great food and affordable prices is a strong draw for many diners.

Regarding payment options, it is crucial to note that Nom Wah Tea Parlor has a specific payment policy: they accept "cash only or Amex." This means that customers planning to dine here should be prepared to pay with either cash or an American Express credit card, as other forms of payment may not be accepted. This is an important piece of practical information for potential visitors.

While the reviews don't explicitly mention any ongoing promotional offers, the restaurant's long-standing reputation as an institution and its consistent delivery of great food at affordable prices can be seen as its inherent appeal. The fact that it's the oldest dim sum spot in Chinatown adds a unique historical and cultural dimension to the dining experience, which in itself can be a draw for those seeking an authentic taste of the neighborhood's culinary heritage.

In summary, Nom Wah Tea Parlor offers a unique and valuable experience as the oldest dim sum restaurant in New York City's Chinatown. It provides a wide array of delicious and affordable dim sum dishes, including must-try items like pork buns, chicken soup dumplings, and shrimp and chive dumplings, alongside well-executed staples like egg fried rice. The service is noted as fast, and while the environment's specifics aren't detailed, its historical significance adds to its charm. Local users looking for an authentic and affordable dim sum experience in a historic setting should definitely consider visiting Nom Wah Tea Parlor. Remember to bring cash or an American Express card to enjoy the culinary delights of this Chinatown institution.