Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Couples in Chinatown
Top Things to Do in New York City for Couples in Chinatown
1. Nom Wah Tea Parlor
An iconic dim sum institution tucked along curved Doyers Street, Nom Wah serves baskets of shrimp siu mai, flaky egg rolls, and tea in a cozy, vintage room that feels tailor‑made for two.
✓ Why Go:
Sharing small plates is inherently romantic, and Nom Wah’s old‑New‑York nostalgia adds a warm, cinematic glow to a Chinatown date.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays late morning or early afternoon to avoid peak lines; weekend brunch if you don’t mind a lively scene.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a mix of classics and a wild card—then wander Doyers Street afterward for photos under the lanterns.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Couples praise the comforting flavors, fair prices, and “time‑capsule” ambience that sets the mood for the rest of the day.
2. Chinatown Ice Cream Factory
This beloved scoop shop highlights Asian‑inspired flavors—black sesame, lychee, pandan—ideal for sharing while you meander along Bayard and Mott Streets.
✓ Why Go:
Playful flavors and generous scoops make for a sweet, low‑key date moment between sightseeing and dinner.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon to early evening; lines move quickly even on warm weekends.
✓ Insider Tip:
Get two kiddie cups to sample more flavors—black sesame with lychee is a standout duo.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a must‑stop dessert in Chinatown, with many noting nostalgic flavors that spark fun conversations.
3. Apothéke
An apothecary‑themed cocktail bar set on storied Doyers Street, Apothéke crafts perfumed, botanical drinks in a candlelit space perfect for lingering.
✓ Why Go:
Creative cocktails and intimate seating make it an effortless transition from dinner to a romantic nightcap.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings Monday–Thursday or early weekend hours to secure a cozy table.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about off‑menu variations if you have a favorite spirit—bartenders are happy to riff.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Couples love the speakeasy vibe, attentive staff, and drinks that feel like little works of art.
4. Chinese Tuxedo
A stylish, modern Cantonese restaurant inside a restored former opera house, offering shareable plates in an architecturally striking room.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a special‑occasion setting in the heart of Chinatown, combining inventive dishes with conversation‑worthy design.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Dinner, especially weeknights or a late seating on weekends for a more intimate feel.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book ahead and request a corner table; split a noodle dish and one large plate to pace a long, relaxed meal.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests rave about the ambiance as much as the food, calling it a top date‑night pick downtown.
5. The Crown
A rooftop lounge atop Hotel 50 Bowery with sweeping views of Chinatown’s rooftops, the bridges, and the skyline—prime sunset territory.
✓ Why Go:
Few vantage points feel as romantic; it’s an elevated way to toast the neighborhood after exploring its streets.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour to twilight for glowing views and photo‑ready light.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive a bit before sunset to claim an outdoor spot; bring a light layer as breezes pick up.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Couples highlight the views and upbeat vibe, noting it’s a memorable capstone to a Chinatown date.
6. Canal Street Market
A curated marketplace blending indie retail with rotating food vendors, showcasing local makers and Asian‑influenced bites under one roof.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an easy, browse‑and‑graze date where you can pick up small gifts and sample snacks together.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday on weekdays for elbow room; weekends are buzzy but fun.
✓ Insider Tip:
Split a couple of small plates, then browse ceramics and stationery for a take‑home memento.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors appreciate the design, variety, and convenient break from the Canal Street bustle.
7. Eastern States Buddhist Temple of America
A serene temple on Mott Street where flickering candles and intricate altars offer a quiet pause amid Chinatown’s energy.
✓ Why Go:
A reflective interlude for couples—step inside, slow down, and share a moment of calm together.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or late afternoon when it’s quietest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Make a small donation and light incense respectfully; keep voices low and be mindful of worshippers.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests describe it as peaceful and authentic, adding depth to a day that’s not only about eating and shopping.
8. Mahayana Buddhist Temple
Home to a striking, giant seated Buddha near the Manhattan Bridge, this temple offers a spacious, contemplative hall.
✓ Why Go:
The grandeur and quiet set a meditative mood that contrasts beautifully with the city outside—great for couples seeking balance.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons for minimal crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Draw a fortune stick together and keep it as a quirky shared souvenir.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it calming and photogenic, with many noting how welcoming the space feels.
9. Wo Hop
A late‑night Chinatown legend serving comforting Cantonese dishes in a basement dining room plastered with decades of memorabilia.
✓ Why Go:
Night‑owl couples can split sizzling plates after cocktails—a quintessential, only‑in‑NYC experience.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late night for the full Chinatown after‑hours vibe; earlier for a quieter meal.
✓ Insider Tip:
Share a classic like beef chow fun and a plate of roast pork—simple, satisfying, and perfect for two.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans celebrate its longevity and no‑frills charm, calling it comfort food at its most nostalgic.
10. Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center
An old‑school arcade where you can challenge each other to air hockey, rhythm games, and fighters—date‑night bragging rights included.
✓ Why Go:
Play sparks connection—laugh, compete, and keep the evening light‑hearted before or after dinner.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weeknights or later at night after the dinner rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Load a small game card and sample several machines instead of camping at one.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Couples find it nostalgic and fun, with a friendly staff and a solid mix of modern and retro games.
