TLDR
Authentic Chinatown hole-in-the-wall famous for its exceptional Toishan zongzi and classic dim sum. Perfect for grabbing comfort foods to-go.
Details
A quintessential Chinatown hole-in-the-wall, this beloved spot is highly regarded for its authentic dim sum and traditional comfort foods [4], [9]. Patrons frequently praise the high quality of their specialty items, which are often sought after for home consumption [2], [3], [5]. From soul-warming congee to unique house beverages, it remains a staple for those seeking genuine flavors [7], [8].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on classic Chinese comfort dishes, with the Toishan zongzi frequently highlighted as a standout due to its generous stuffing and ability to freeze well for later [2], [3], [5]. Additionally, the cafe is well-regarded for its dim sum, congee, and rice noodles, while the ginger lemon tea is noted as a specific beverage highlight [4], [6], [7], [8], [9].
Caveats
While many items are considered worth the price, some specialty items may carry a slightly higher cost, though customers generally feel the quality justifies it [5].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About MEE SUM CAFE
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Recommendation For Early Morming In Manhattan
"Recommended as a spot for dim sum in Chinatown."
PositiveFrom post: Whats The Best Gingerforward Food Or Drink Youve
"Recommends the ginger lemon tea at Mee Sum Cafe on Pell Street, stating they have waited years for someone to ask about it."
PositiveFrom post: Im On A Soft Food Diet For A Couple Weeks It
"This is one of the recommended places for congee in the city."
NeutralFrom post: Best Rice Crepesbanh Cuon In Chinatown
"This user lists Mee Sum Cafe as one of several places in Chinatown that serve rice noodles."
NeutralFrom post: Where Do You Go For The Comfort Foods You Grew Up
"Mee Sum Cafe is recommended for its Zongzi, stating they come close to homemade versions and are worth the higher price due to generous stuffing."
PositiveFrom post: Blt From Fay Da Dont Sleep On The Chinese
"This user recommends Mee Sum Cafe, describing it as a 'hole in the wall' with excellent dim sum, suggesting it to someone staying in Chinatown."
PositiveFrom post: Roast My Nyc Food Itinerary
"Suggests Mee Sum Cafe for cold Zongzi to take home. These sticky rice items are wrapped in leaves and can be refrigerated or frozen."
PositiveFrom post: Heading To Nyc Next Weekend Is There A Food Item
"Recommends Mee Sum Cafe's Toishan zongzi as the best in Chinatown, noting they freeze and transport well."
PositiveFrom post: Low Key Quiet Dim Sum Place In Manhattan
"This commenter simply mentioned 'Mee Sum Cafe' in response to the original post."
Neutral