TLDR
Classic Chinatown banquet-hall vibes serving reliable dim sum and traditional rice rolls. A favorite for group dining that captures the bustling energy of the city.
Details
A staple in Manhattan's Chinatown, this spot is widely celebrated as a go-to destination for authentic dim sum and banquet-hall style dining [1], [2], [3]. While many patrons enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and cart service, some visitors have reported inconsistent food quality or experiences that feel lackluster compared to other nearby establishments [4], [5]. Additionally, the restaurant's popularity and specific operating schedules mean that certain dishes may sell out well before the evening rush [6].
Food Overview
Specializing in Cantonese cuisine, the menu is anchored by dim sum favorites, including well-regarded red rice shrimp rolls [9] and radish cakes [10]. Although it offers vegetarian options [11], some diners have noted a limited seafood selection [12] and occasional inconsistency in food quality [5].
Caveats
The restaurant does not accept reservations [13], and diners should be aware that popular dim sum items often sell out early in the afternoon due to transitions in kitchen operations [6].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About HOUSE OF JOY
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Group Dining Restaurants Without Prixfixe Or
"The restaurant is suggested as a location in Manhattan's Chinatown that can accommodate a large group without mandatory prix-fixe or minimum spend requirements."
PositiveFrom post: Dinner Specials At Dim Sum Palace On Division
"The commenter likes the food but finds the weekend crowds difficult to manage."
NeutralFrom post: Dinner Specials At Dim Sum Palace On Division
"The commenter considers this their favorite dim sum restaurant in the area."
PositiveFrom post: Best Chinese Restaurant Overall That Also Has
"The user notes that House of Joy provided a good dim sum experience."
PositiveFrom post: Any Suggestions For A Manhattan Seafood Lunch
"Suggested as an affordable seafood option in Chinatown."
NeutralFrom post: Best Chinese Restaurant Overall That Also Has
"This user suggests House of Joy as a potential spot for dim sum in Manhattan's Chinatown."
NeutralFrom post: Best Chinese Restaurant Overall That Also Has
"The user identifies House of Joy as their current go-to restaurant for dim sum."
PositiveFrom post: Best Chinese Restaurant Overall That Also Has
"Mentioned as a potential option for Chinese food in Chinatown."
NeutralFrom post: Recommended Spots For A Group Of 1012 In Manhattan
"Suggested as a large and affordable banquet hall option for groups."
PositiveFrom post: Asian Restaurants In Manhattan That Might Fit 150
"House of Joy is mentioned as a Cantonese banquet hall restaurant in Chinatown that can fit 150 people and is available for private rental."
NeutralFrom post: Asian Restaurants In Manhattan That Might Fit 150
"House of Joy is listed as a potential option for accommodating a large group."
NeutralFrom post: Asian Restaurants In Manhattan That Might Fit 150
"The commenter found the food at House of Joy to be bland when attending a banquet there, and their dim sum experiences were also disappointing."
NegativeFrom post: Asian Restaurants In Manhattan That Might Fit 150
"This is a dim sum spot that can likely accommodate around 150 people."
NeutralFrom post: What Are The Best Radish Cakes In Nyc I Want To
"The commenter enjoyed the radish cakes from this establishment."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Non Plantbased Restaurants With Lots
"This commenter recommended Cantonese seafood restaurants for their vegetable variety and group-friendly atmosphere, listing House of Joy as an example."
PositiveFrom post: Soon To Be First Time In Nyc As An Irish Person
"House of Joy is recommended for dim sum, with carts, and is preferred by the commenter over Golden Unicorn."
PositiveFrom post: Planning A Weekend Trip In The City With My Mom
"House of Joy is recommended for dim sum but does not take reservations and is located downtown."
NeutralFrom post: Late Afternoon Dim Sum Push Carts Bad Idea
"This commenter noted that House of Joy starts preparing for dinner service around 2:30-3:00 PM, meaning popular items might be sold out even if one arrives at 1:00-1:30 PM. While special orders for fresh dishes are sometimes possible, they are not guaranteed."
NegativeFrom post: What Is Your Most Frequented Restaurant
"House of Joy is listed as a frequently visited restaurant."
PositiveFrom post: Where Can I Find This Enormous Meat Stick Lol
"This user mentioned a Chinese food fest by the 2 Bridges Mall as a possible location."
Positive