Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Coffee Lovers in Chinatown
Top Things to Do in New York City for Coffee Lovers in Chinatown
1. Mei Lai Wah Bakery
An old-school Chinatown staple where a hot cup of coffee pairs perfectly with iconic baked buns and nostalgic diner vibes.
✓ Why Go:
The no-frills counter serves smooth, satisfying coffee that complements their famous pineapple buns and roast pork buns—an essential Chinatown combo.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (7–9am) to beat the rush and snag fresh-from-the-oven pastries.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a pineapple bun and ask for a slab of butter inside; sip a hot coffee alongside for the classic cha chaan teng experience.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the retro feel, quick service, and unbeatable value for a coffee-and-pastry breakfast.
2. Fay Da Bakery
A bright Hong Kong–style bakery with a deep pastry case and reliable coffee for an easy Chinatown pick‑me‑up.
✓ Why Go:
From egg tarts to sponge cakes, everything pairs well with their milky coffee or yuanyang (coffee–tea mix).
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning (10–11:30am) for steady pastry turnover without peak lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Try yuanyang if you want something stronger than milk tea but silkier than straight coffee.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors highlight the huge selection, fast-moving line, and consistently fresh bakes with classic HK coffee.
3. Tai Pan Bakery
A bustling corner bakery on Canal Street pouring reliable cups to accompany a wide array of Chinese pastries.
✓ Why Go:
Its convenient location makes it ideal for a caffeine stop before exploring nearby streets and markets.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays mid‑morning to early afternoon when turnover is high and seating often opens up.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair a hot coffee with a still-warm egg tart; the flaky crust and custard shine with a bold brew.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests appreciate quick service, fair prices, and a classic Chinatown coffee-and-pastry experience.
4. Kam Hing Coffee Shop
A humble spot famed for airy sponge cakes and simple, satisfying coffee served counter-style.
✓ Why Go:
The light sponge cakes are legendary and make an ideal partner for a hot, straightforward cup.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning or early afternoon before popular flavors sell out.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab two sponge cakes—one to eat with your coffee now and one for later; they’re that addictive.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Regulars praise the nostalgia factor and friendly, fuss‑free coffee service.
5. Paris Sandwich
Vietnamese sandwiches and strong iced coffee in a casual storefront just off Canal Street.
✓ Why Go:
Their cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk) is robust, sweet, and ideal for hot NYC days.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Lunchtime (11:30am–1:30pm) for peak banh mi freshness and a freshly brewed coffee.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for less ice for a stronger coffee kick and pair it with a classic roast pork banh mi.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Coffee lovers note the bold brew and budget-friendly combo meals.
6. Bánh Mì Saigon
Beloved banh mi counter where the Vietnamese iced coffee is as craveable as the sandwiches.
✓ Why Go:
The coffee is strong and fragrant—perfect alongside their crackly‑crusted baguettes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late lunch (2–3:30pm) to avoid the heaviest lines while breads are still fresh.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order your coffee first so it’s ready by the time your banh mi is assembled.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors frequently mention the punchy coffee, quick service, and great value.
7. Kong Sihk Tong
A Hong Kong–style café (cha chaan teng) serving hearty comfort dishes and classic HK-style coffee.
✓ Why Go:
Coffee lovers can try local favorites like silky milk coffee or yuanyang alongside baked pork chop rice.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early dinner (5–7pm) when wait times drop and the dining room is relaxed.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request your milk coffee ‘strong’ for a more pronounced roast to cut through rich dishes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners enjoy the lively ambiance, generous portions, and nostalgic café drinks.
8. M Star Cafe
Casual cha chaan teng known for comfort fare and reliable HK-style coffee in the heart of Chinatown.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an easy sit‑down option for a mid‑day caffeine break with classic café plates.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid‑afternoon (2–4pm) for a calm break between lunch and dinner rushes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Try the yuanyang iced for a refreshing blend when New York summers heat up.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests like the quick service, familiar flavors, and dependable coffee drinks.
9. Cha Kee
Modern Hong Kong eatery offering cha chaan teng classics and a thoughtful coffee program.
✓ Why Go:
Expect balanced milk coffee, creative café drinks, and plates that pair well with a caffeinated pause.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend brunch for a lively scene or early dinner for a smoother experience.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about off‑menu or seasonal coffee specials that riff on HK café traditions.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors praise the contemporary twist on classics and smooth, not‑too‑sweet coffee drinks.
10. Lazy Sundaes
Korean-inspired dessert shop with coffee‑friendly treats, including bingsu and occasional coffee-infused options.
✓ Why Go:
A sweet finish for coffee lovers—pair a brewed drink or coffee‑leaning special with fluffy shaved ice.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons (3–6pm) for a cooling pick‑me‑up after street‑market browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the menu for seasonal Viet coffee or espresso‑based specials to complement dessert.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests enjoy the playful flavors, friendly staff, and refreshing treats that still satisfy a caffeine craving.
