New York City, a cornucopia of culinary delights, offers a diverse tapestry of flavors that reflect its vibrant cultural mosaic. Among these gastronomic treasures, shrimp toast stands out as an adaptation of traditional Chinese cuisine, subtly evolving to cater to local palates. The contrast between crispy toast and succulent shrimp paste evokes a delightful symphony of textures and tastes that captivates both locals and tourists. Below are ten notable establishments throughout the city where this delicacy can be savored, each contributing its unique flair to this beloved dish.
1. Dim Sum Palace
Address: 88 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 242-2889
Website: dimsumpalacenyc.com
Dim Sum Palace serves a delightful rendition of shrimp toast that bursts with umami flavor. The talented chefs blend fresh shrimp with delicate seasonings, creating a harmonious balance. Served piping hot, these toasts are often paired with their homemade chili sauce, enhancing the experience.
2. Little Tong Noodle Shop
Address: 12 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 677-8888
Website: littletongnoodles.com
At Little Tong Noodle Shop, shrimp toast is infused with a contemporary twist. The establishment prides itself on using rice flour for a crispier texture, accompanied by a blend of herbs that invigorates the palate. Diners rave about the crispy edges and tender center, melding traditional and modern influences.
3. New York Noodletown
Address: 28 Bowery, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 964-8880
Website: newyorknoodletown.com
Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, New York Noodletown offers a classic interpretation of shrimp toast. Patrons adore the nostalgia that comes with each bite, evoking memories of street food experiences across Asia. Their version is generously topped with sesame seeds, providing a delightful crunch.
4. Jing Fong
Address: 20 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 964-5256
Website: jingfongnyc.com
Offering a grand dim sum dining experience, Jing Fong features shrimp toast that is as visually appealing as it is delectable. With a notable focus on presentation, the toasts are served alongside various dipping sauces, allowing guests to explore a spectrum of flavors with each morsel.
5. Luu’s Vietnamese Restaurant
Address: 182 Grand St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 226-1767
Website: luusvietnamese.com
At Luu’s, the shrimp toast is inspired by Vietnamese culinary traditions, offering a unique take that is lighter and often served with fresh herbs. This establishment is favored for creating a fresh and zesty version that tantalizes the taste buds while adhering to a philosophy of using clean, organic ingredients.
6. Nom Wah Tea Parlor
Address: 13 Doyers St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 233-1700
Website: nomwah.com
As one of the oldest dim sum parlors in New York, Nom Wah Tea Parlor offers a vintage charm. Their shrimp toast is enveloped in nostalgia, having been perfected over decades. It is frequently recommended, not just for its taste but for the story it embodies—making each bite a journey through New York’s culinary history.
7. The Chinese Evergreens
Address: 73-22 Main St, Flushing, NY 11367
Contact: (718) 886-2088
Website: chineseevergreens.com
In the bustling district of Flushing, The Chinese Evergreens offers a shrimp toast that’s celebrated for its generous shrimp filling and lack of excess oil. This place has garnered a loyal following for its focus on flavor purity, serving a variety of Asian dishes alongside their delightful appetizer.
8. Hwa Yuan Szechuan
Address: 42 East Broadway, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 566-1600
Website: hwayuanszechuan.com
At Hwa Yuan Szechuan, the shrimp toast is given a spicy kick, reflecting the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine. Diners can expect their taste buds to awaken as they delve into this exquisite offering that balances heat with the sweetness of succulent shrimp. It’s a must-try for those who love spice.
9. Peking Duck House
Address: 28 Mott St, New York, NY 10013
Contact: (212) 732-6811
Website: pekingduckhouse.com
Peking Duck House melds tradition with innovation, serving shrimp toast alongside their renowned duck dishes. The balance of flavors here is impressive, with each toast providing a contrast of crunchy texture and savory shrimp that offers a delightful prelude to a lavish feast.
10. Xi’an Famous Foods
Address: 37-21 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11103
Contact: (718) 606-0520
Website: xianfoods.com
Not traditionally known for shrimp toast, Xi’an Famous Foods puts its own spin on the dish, making it a culinary surprise for visitors. Infused with flavors characteristic of Xi’an cuisine, their shrimp toast is served with a twist of spicy sauce, challenging convention and igniting curiosity for adventurous eaters.
These ten establishments exemplify the dynamic and evolving nature of shrimp toast in New York City. Each bite encapsulates stories of immigrants, innovations in culinary techniques, and the spirit of community that defines this metropolis. Whether enjoyed in a bustling restaurant or a quaint tearoom, shrimp toast serves as a reminder of the flavors that connect diverse cultures and experiences throughout the city. Venture forth and explore, for every visit promises a new delight and deeper understanding of the culinary landscape that flourishes in this remarkable city.
