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S. WAN CAFE

Updated

Phone: (212) 966-8269

Address: 85 ELDRIDGE STREET 10002

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TLDR

Authentic HK-style cafe serving nostalgic comfort classics and affordable breakfasts. A must-visit local secret for toasted milk bread sandwiches and hearty noodle bowls.

Reddit Sentiment for S. WAN CAFE(based on 45 Reddit opinions)

56% Positive33% Neutral11% Negative

Tags

hong kong 21chinese 7milk tea 4chicken chop 4sandwich 4View All

Neighborhoods

Chinatown

Details

A cherished hidden gem offering authentic Hong Kong-style comfort food, this spot is celebrated as a go-to for breakfast and affordable, classic dishes [1], [2]. The menu features a variety of nostalgic staples ranging from sandwiches on toasted milk bread to hearty noodle soups [3], [4]. While it has gained popularity as a secret favorite, it remains a beloved, budget-friendly destination for locals [1], [5].

Food Overview

Specializing in Hong Kong-style diner fare, the restaurant is frequently praised for its breakfast sets, milk tea, and lemon tea [1], [3], [5]. Popular savory items include the chicken chop, spam and egg sandwiches, and curry beef stew, though some customers note that specific dishes like the soy sauce chow mein do not contain meat [1], [2], [4].

Highlights / Recommended

Highly recommended items include the chicken chop, spam and egg sandwich, Hong Kong milk tea, and various noodle dishes like beef rice noodle (Ho Fun) and ham macaroni [2], [3], [4], [5].

Customer Sentiment

Patrons overwhelmingly adore this spot for its nostalgic atmosphere, delicious comfort food, and exceptional value [1], [5]. While some debate the normalization of prices compared to modern chains, the general consensus is highly positive and protective of its reputation as a local gem [1], [6].

Reddit Opinions & Reviews

Top Reddit Posts About S. WAN CAFE

S Wan Cafe's Pork Chop with Onions over Rice
This thread is a deep dive into the menu, featuring intense community debates about value, recommendations for top-tier dishes like chicken chop, and practical info like the cash-only policy.
Breakfast near Tenement Museum?
A highly-rated recommendation for those seeking an authentic Hong Kong-style breakfast experience in the vicinity of the Tenement Museum.
Looking for healthy and slightly bland food?
The community suggests the cafe's congee and noodle soups as perfect, comforting options for when you are feeling unwell.

Recent Reddit Mentions

From post: Recommendation For Early Morming In Manhattan

"Recommended as a place for Hong Kong-style breakfast in Chinatown."

Positive
Aug 8, 2026View Comment →

From post: Best Rice Crepesbanh Cuon In Chinatown

"This user lists S Wan Cafe as one of several places in Chinatown that serve rice noodles."

Neutral
May 3, 2026View Comment →

From post: S Wan Cafes Pork Chop With Onions Over Rice For

"The user praised S Wan Cafe for its beef chow fun, Hong Kong milk tea and coffee combo, and incredibly low prices, describing it as a place with lots of love."

Positive
Jan 14, 2026View Comment →

From post: S Wan Cafes Pork Chop With Onions Over Rice For

"This user recommended S Wan Cafe, particularly the chicken chop, and noted that it is closed on Sundays due to Sabbath observance."

Positive
Jan 11, 2026View Comment →

From post: S Wan Cafes Pork Chop With Onions Over Rice For

"The user described S Wan Cafe as their favorite breakfast spot in NYC and a gem."

Positive
Jan 10, 2026View Comment →

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