TLDR
Historic Chinatown gem serving authentic Cantonese comfort food & excellent dim sum. Great for cheong fun, Zongzi & a taste of home.
Instagram Posts References
Mee Sum Cafe, established in 1967, is highlighted as one of NYC Chinatown's oldest restaurants, specializing in traditional Cantonese comfort food. The establishment is praised for its affordability and is described as a humble, no-frills eatery that evokes a sense of home, particularly for those with Hong Kong roots. The post emphasizes the unique charm of its old-fashioned cash register and classic wood menus. The atmosphere is depicted as warm and inviting, with 'aunties and uncles' chatting, contributing to a communal feel. The overall experience is portrayed as a nostalgic journey, a rare gem in New York City, and a place to share laughs and enjoy authentic food.
Details
Established in 1967, Mee Sum Cafe is a cherished Chinatown institution known for its traditional Cantonese comfort food and a welcoming, nostalgic atmosphere [1]. It's lauded as a humble, no-frills eatery that evokes a sense of home, with a particular emphasis on its affordably priced, classic dishes. The cafe is also recognized for its excellent dim sum and is a great spot for takeaway items like Zongzi that freeze and transport well [2], [3].
Food Overview
Mee Sum Cafe specializes in traditional Cantonese comfort food, with a particular highlight being their Zongzi, described as close to homemade with generous stuffing and perfect for takeaway [2], [3]. They are also noted for their cheong fun (rice noodles), which some find to be thicker and chewier, and are recommended for congee [1], [4]. The menu includes classic dim sum items like siu mai and shrimp rice rolls, as well as comforting dishes such as salted fish with pork patty over rice and simple egg sandwiches [1].
Caveats
Some feedback indicates that the cheong fun may be thicker and chewier, which might not appeal to everyone seeking a very thin noodle wrap [1].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About MEE SUM CAFE
Recent Reddit Mentions
From 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."
NeutralFrom post: Anyone Know Of A Bbq Noodle Rice Roll Similar To
"This cafe is suggested as a place that offers thicker and chewier cheong fun, potentially matching the desired noodle texture."
Neutral