World-famous Taiwanese chain known for its XLB and chocolate dessert dumplings [1, 2]. A popular spot for groups, offering a pleasant ambiance and good, albeit sometimes pricey, food [3, 4].
Din Tai Fung, a renowned Taiwanese institution, has opened its first NYC outpost in Times Square, drawing praise for its signature Xiao Long Bao and other dishes like pork chops over fried rice and dumplings in chile oil [1]. While reservations can be difficult, the large dining room makes lunch a more accessible option, and the restaurant is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere and visible kitchen [2, 3]. Some diners find it overpriced compared to Chinatown alternatives, but others praise its consistent quality, unique dessert options like chocolate xiao long bao, and its appeal for groups and out-of-town guests [4, 5].
Din Tai Fung is celebrated for its Taiwanese cuisine, particularly its Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), which are frequently highlighted as a must-try [1, 2]. Other praised dishes include spicy wontons, string beans with garlic, pork chops over fried rice, and unique dessert options like chocolate XLB [3, 4]. However, some diners find the NYC location's food to be bland, overpriced, or less authentic compared to its international counterparts, with a few suggesting better value can be found in Chinatown [5, 6].
"The restaurant is highly recommended for its signature Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), particularly the chicken variety, and unique dessert options like the chocolate XLB. Other praised dishes include spicy cucumbers, Taiwanese cabbage, string beans with garlic, and pork chops over fried rice."
Customer feedback is mixed, with many praising the quality of specific dishes like soup dumplings and chocolate XLB, while others find the NYC location mediocre, overpriced, or not as good as international branches [1, 2]. Service and wait times also receive varied commentary.
Important Note
Some users suggest that the NYC location may not be as good as Din Tai Fung branches in other parts of the US or in Asia. Additionally, while generally considered family-friendly, the restaurant can be crowded, and reservations are often recommended, especially during peak times or for larger groups.
"This user shares that their reservation for Din Tai Fung was canceled, indicating the kitchen issue might be ongoing and expressing hope for a prompt reopening."
Negative"In response to information about a kitchen fire, the original poster confirms that this explains the situation and expresses thanks for the clarification."
Neutral"This commenter states that Din Tai Fung experienced a kitchen fire."
Negative"This commenter mentions that Din Tai Fung is temporarily closed until Friday due to a kitchen fire, and reservations would be needed after reopening."
Neutral"The original poster is inquiring about the status of Din Tai Fung as their phone is not being answered and the reservation system appears to be down, leading to concerns about potential permanent closure."
Neutral"This user proposed Din Tai Fung as a restaurant that fits the description of having a large menu and appeal."
Neutral"Din Tai Fung is listed as a frequently visited restaurant."
Positive"Din Tai Fung offers a black sesame espresso martini and black sesame dessert dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)."
Positive"Din Tai Fung is mentioned as a potential dining option near the American Girl Doll Store."
Neutral"The commenter suggested Din Tai Fung for its private rooms, stating they are really nice. However, this suggestion was declined due to picky eaters not liking Asian food."
Neutral"Din Tai Fung is mentioned as a dining option."
Neutral"User recommended Din Tai Fung for dim sum."
Positive"The user suggests Din Tai Fung as a better alternative to a Wonder-affiliated restaurant."
Positive"Din Tai Fung is mentioned as a recommended restaurant."
Positive"This user shared their experience getting into Din Tai Fung on weekdays, usually around 2 PM. They also recommended trying to secure a reservation on the restaurant's website in advance."
Neutral"This user commented on the process of getting into Din Tai Fung. They mentioned that one can put their name on a waitlist and receive a text when the table is ready. They also advised to be prepared for crowds on a busy Saturday, especially as the weather improves."
Neutral"This user suggested slipping the person at the door a $100 bill ('a Franklin') to potentially get a table at Din Tai Fung, implying a bribe."
Negative"This user stated that Din Tai Fung is 'way better in Taiwan'."
Negative"The user found Din Tai Fung 'ass' and significantly worse than locations in other countries, citing under-seasoned or overly sweet food and flavorless soup dumplings, deeming the quality unacceptable for the price."
Negative"This user dismissively called Din Tai Fung 'Fake af' and advised going to Chinatown instead."
Negative
