TLDR
A quintessential Chinatown hole-in-the-wall serving exceptional dim sum and traditional sticky rice dumplings. Perfect for grabbing authentic, homemade-quality comfort food to-go.
Instagram Posts References
Mee Sum Cafe is identified as a 'secret Thai restaurant' within an iconic Chinatown spot. The post shows the exterior of the cafe, hinting at its hidden gem status.
Details
Tucked away in the heart of Chinatown, this beloved hole-in-the-wall is a go-to spot for authentic dim sum and traditional comfort foods [4]. Known for its generous portions and high-quality offerings, the cafe is particularly celebrated for its Toishan zongzi, which are perfect for taking home [2], [5]. Patrons also frequently praise the establishment's standout ginger lemon tea [8].
Food Overview
The menu focuses on traditional Chinese comfort food, with dim sum being a consistent highlight [4], [9]. The Toishan zongzi are highly recommended for their generous stuffing and authentic flavor, making them a popular choice for freezing or taking home [2], [3], [5]. Additionally, the cafe is noted for serving quality congee [7] and rice noodles [6], and is uniquely recommended for its ginger lemon tea [8].
Caveats
While generally well-regarded, some of the specialty items like the zongzi are noted to come at a slightly higher price point, though customers find the quality justifies the cost [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."
Positive