When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Jing Fong
Why Jing Fong is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jing Fong has been a cornerstone of New York City's Chinatown since its establishment in 1978, famed for its authentic Cantonese dim sum and traditional banquet experience. Originally starting with 150 seats at 24 Elizabeth Street, it grew into the largest dim sum restaurant in the neighborhood by moving to a grand 20 Elizabeth Street location in 1993, boasting over 800 seats across 20,000 square feet. Jing Fong’s enormous, columnless dining hall was popular for large gatherings such as weddings, graduations, and family celebrations, offering a convivial atmosphere that encouraged social dining and community bonding. This venue distinguished itself not just for its food but also for its vibrant cart-style dim sum service, presenting over 300 varieties on weekends. The restaurant is well suited for meetups with friends due to its communal service style and vast menu options, including favorites like chicken buns, shrimp dumplings, and sesame rolls. Although Jing Fong faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a relocation to a smaller 125-seat space on 202 Centre Street, it continues to be a vibrant place where visitors can experience rich Cantonese culinary culture and a lively social dining scene. Additionally, Jing Fong expanded with a second location on the Upper West Side featuring outdoor dining, enabling it to reach a wider audience while preserving its Chinatown roots.
Here's what people think of Jing Fong
As of recent, Jing Fong holds a 4-star rating based on 3698 reviews.
Reviewers frequently highlight Jing Fong’s authentic dim sum and extensive menu, praising specific dishes such as shrimp dumplings, chicken buns, and sesame rolls for their flavor and quality. Many visitors appreciate the traditional cart service style, which allows an interactive and dynamic dining experience reminiscent of classic Cantonese dim sum culture. The restaurant’s grand setting and family-friendly atmosphere also receive strong commendation, often noted as ideal for large groups and celebratory occasions. Positive reviews often mention the friendly service and lively ambiance, underlining why Jing Fong remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a genuine Chinatown experience. Negative feedback chiefly revolves around the downsizing after the pandemic, as some patrons feel the newer, smaller location lacks the grandeur and scale of the original, limiting the number of dim sum varieties available. Certain diners also observe slower or inconsistent service during busy hours, as well as changes in the menu that may have reduced some classic options. Despite these challenges, the overall consensus remains favorable. The dedication to maintaining quality and tradition amid adversity, along with efforts to modernize and expand to new locations, reflects a resilient establishment continuing its legacy in New York’s culinary landscape.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Yin Lau
There’s something sacred about dim sum that’s made by hand. Each pleat, fold, and tuck carries generations of tradition. And at Jing Fong, nestled in the heart of Chinatown since the 1970s, that tradition is still alive and steaming. They’ve been serving all the dim sum staples, but with one key difference: every dumpling is handmade—not machine-stamped or factory-frozen. A team of 15 seasoned dim sum and kitchen chefs, each with years of muscle memory, shape every har gao and siu mai with practiced precision. On this visit, we ordered the classics: har gao, siu mai, chicken feet, fun gaw, rice rolls, bean curd pork rolls, and spareribs. The beef cheung fun was perfectly rolled (not scraped) silky, slick, and just chewy enough. Each bite delivered that nostalgic, springy bounce. We also had to try the pineapple BBQ pork bun, and it could definitely give Mei Lai Wah a run for its money: fluffy, warm, lightly crisp on top, and stuffed with sweet-savory char siu. The best part? No long line. My favorite was the salted egg yolk bun, served steaming hot, with a rich, golden custard that oozed out in decadent delight. The beef chow fun was textbook wok hei. Smoky, not oily, and gone in minutes. And the salt and pepper squid? Lightly battered, crisp, with just a hint of hot pepper and five-spice. You could tell they used fresh oil by the light, clean color of the fry. We were also recommended the double crispy fried rice, a popular item with a clever spin on tradition. Crunchy, flavorful, and a surprising highlight of the meal. There’s a quiet sadness though. As delicious as everything was, you can’t help but wonder how long this artistry will last. The next generation doesn’t seem eager to learn the craft, and places like Jing Fong are few and far between. I hope the current owner finds a way to preserve both the food and the spirit behind it—because this isn’t just lunch. It’s Hong Kong on a plate. It’s history. And it deserves to stick around.
Indigo Blue Massage and Bodywork, LLC
Best dumplings EVER!!! Melted in my mouth and the service and atmosphere was top notch, looking forward to a return visit very shortly, few miles walk from Central Park.
DrKim
#DimsumHeaven #CheungFun #TurnipCake #NYCeats #BetterThanHK #FoodieFinds #CantoneseCuisine Amazing service and food better than Hong Kong- best of each dish I have ever had!!
Yür MůmzŶ
Guess my previous review got deleted…I’ll try and make this one more, PC. Is this the best dum sum on the UWS? I guess, not like there’s many options. Their dumplings are consistently good. The other options on the UWS are fancier, not as dated but you will pay even more $$$. We mostly order dim sum, Their noodles are also solid but outside of those two areas it’s- hit or miss. Yes, it’s $$$ than Chinatown but it’s the price you pay for not having to leave the neighborhood and still getting decent Cantonese dishes. Destination? Only for those on the westside from the 70s to Inwood. Outdoor dining is available, weather permitting, bring the puppy! Bonus.
Vera Quill
Delicious Dim Sum in the UWS. Convenient for location and want to eat Dim Sum. I love my collagen (Chicken Feet)!
How to reach Jing Fong
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Why Jing Fong may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jing Fong with your friends? For anyone looking to host a memorable gathering with friends or family in New York City, Jing Fong stands out as an exceptional choice. This iconic dim sum restaurant offers more than just food — it provides a lively cultural and social atmosphere that brings people together in a shared culinary adventure. Known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine, especially the expansive dim sum menu, Jing Fong creates an immersive experience where groups can connect over the traditional Chinese style of dining, which involves sharing small plates and tasting a variety of dishes. The restaurant’s large seating capacity and welcoming ambiance make it ideal for sizeable groups, allowing everyone to sit together comfortably while enjoying a bustling, communal vibe. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to spend quality time with loved ones, the combination of Jing Fong’s extensive menu, warm environment, and cultural richness makes it a prime destination to rally around, share stories, and build lasting memories.
What activities are available at Jing Fong for groups?
Jing Fong is primarily a dining destination, but the activities revolve around the unique social dining style it promotes. One of the most enjoyable aspects of coming to Jing Fong with a group is the interactive dim sum experience. Unlike ordering individual meals, dim sum encourages sharing, making it a social, engaging activity. Diners select from over 300 varieties of freshly steamed, fried, and grilled dim sum items on weekends, enabling guests to sample a wide variety of flavors and textures. Bringing a group means you can order an array of dishes such as classic shrimp dumplings (har gow), pork buns, sticky rice in lotus leaves, and many more, fostering a communal tasting experience. This shared eating style not only stimulates lively conversation but also allows each person to explore new tastes alongside friends and family. Additionally, Jing Fong’s authentic dim sum service, where carts roll around the restaurant presenting dishes, adds an element of excitement and choice, making the meal an interactive, memorable event.
Why is Jing Fong perfect for a group meetup?
Jing Fong is the perfect place for group meetups due to its spacious seating arrangements and welcoming atmosphere. Originally known for its 800-seat banquet hall in Chinatown, the restaurant has maintained a commitment to accommodating large friends and family gatherings even after relocating to a smaller, yet still generously sized, venue. This ample space ensures groups can be seated together comfortably without feeling cramped, which is often a challenge in popular city eateries. Moreover, the restaurant is equipped to handle special events, including weddings and celebrations, which speaks to their proficiency in hosting large parties. The combination of a lively ambiance, authentic cuisine, and logistical ease — like large tables and accommodating seating — creates an ideal setting where groups can relax, interact freely, and thoroughly enjoy their time together. The convivial air of Jing Fong, with its ambient noise and bustling environment, also prevents your group's excitement from feeling out of place, encouraging a festive spirit.
What types of food and drinks can groups enjoy at Jing Fong?
At Jing Fong, groups can indulge in an extensive menu that highlights traditional Cantonese and Hong Kong-style dim sum fare. The weekend menu is especially rich, featuring over 300 varieties of dishes that span steamed, fried, and grilled preparations. Popular items include the iconic har gow (translucent shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), turnip cakes, and sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves. For those who prefer heartier meals, the banquet-style dishes such as the mushroom longevity noodles are crowd-pleasers and perfect for sharing. Importantly, the menu caters to different dietary preferences, with vegetarian-friendly options available. On the drinks front, Jing Fong serves both traditional Chinese tea and a selection of alcoholic beverages, which complement the meal perfectly and enhance the social dining experience. This variety ensures that everyone in the group will find dishes and drinks to enjoy, making it a versatile dining option no matter the tastes or dietary requirements.
How accessible and convenient is Jing Fong for group meetups?
Located in the heart of Manhattan’s Chinatown at 202 Centre Street, Jing Fong is conveniently accessible by various transportation options, making it easy for groups coming from different parts of the city. The restaurant’s operating hours from late morning to evening (10:30 AM to 9:00 PM) provide flexibility, allowing meetups for brunch, lunch, or dinner. There is also an Upper West Side location at 380 Amsterdam Avenue, which offers a cozier space but the same high-quality dim sum experience, widening options for different neighborhoods. Jing Fong is wheelchair accessible and offers table service, making the experience comfortable for all group members. Additionally, their menu is available online, and advance reservations for large parties can be made to ensure smooth seating arrangements without long waits. The restaurant’s readiness to accommodate large groups combined with its central location ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable meetup experience.
What makes Jing Fong’s ambiance special for group gatherings?
The ambiance at Jing Fong is a lively blend of traditional Chinese charm and the vibrant energy of Manhattan’s Chinatown. The restaurant’s large, often bustling dining hall sets a dynamic backdrop suited for groups to converse, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company without worrying about being too loud. The interior typically features Chinese decor elements that evoke an authentic atmosphere, such as wooden lattice work and red lanterns, which add cultural warmth and character to your gathering. This setting invites a festive mood where sharing food becomes a natural part of socializing. Moreover, the dim sum carts rolling by and the sounds of clinking dishes add an interactive, almost theatrical element to dining, which makes the experience more engaging for all ages. This bustling, warm environment transforms every visit into a full sensory experience and makes Jing Fong not just a meal location but a cultural outing that strengthens group bonds through shared tradition.
Can Jing Fong accommodate celebrations and special occasions for groups?
Absolutely, Jing Fong has a long-standing reputation for hosting celebrations, especially weddings and family gatherings, which makes it an excellent choice for groups looking to mark special moments. The restaurant’s former large banquet hall was famous for its pillar-free layout, perfect for large parties and events, and while the current space is smaller, it remains well equipped to handle reservation requests for group celebrations. Their staff is experienced in managing big events, ensuring that groups receive attentive service tailored to their needs. Many groups use Jing Fong for birthdays, anniversaries, and reunion meals because the restaurant’s remarkable dim sum spread provides a festive culinary experience that feels both traditional and celebratory. The ability to share an elaborate, family-style meal within a culturally rich setting adds meaning and enjoyment to event dining, making Jing Fong a preferred venue for memorable group occasions.
What is the value proposition of Jing Fong for large groups?
Jing Fong offers excellent value for large groups looking for authentic and diverse Chinese cuisine in a culturally immersive environment. With pricing that aligns well with the quantity and quality of food served—particularly on weekends when the full range of over 300 dim sum options is available—the experience is both affordable and luxurious in its scope. The restaurant’s ability to serve many diners simultaneously without compromising on food quality or service efficiency is a major advantage for group gatherings. Alongside competitive pricing, guests benefit from a setting that preserves the authenticity of traditional Cantonese dining while offering modern conveniences like online menus and reservations. The combination of quality, quantity, atmosphere, and service makes Jing Fong a standout choice for groups who want an enriching dining experience that accommodates different tastes, promotes sharing, and encourages socializing, all at a reasonable cost.
Choosing Jing Fong for your next meetup guarantees a rich, engaging experience where the joy of friendship and family is matched by an impressive culinary tradition and warm, spacious ambiance. Whether for a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner, Jing Fong delivers everything a group could want — from vast dim sum options to a vibrant, communal atmosphere — making every gathering a memorable feast.