Mee Sum Cafe

- 26 Pell St, New York, NY 10013

Tucked away on historic Pell Street in the heart of New York City's vibrant Chinatown is a true culinary time capsule: Mee Sum Cafe. In a neighborhood known for its rich and diverse food scene, Mee Sum Cafe stands out for its steadfast commitment to classic, comforting Chinese cuisine, delivered with no frills and at an unbeatable price. This isn't a place for modern fusion or trendy decor; it’s a destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of traditional Cantonese comfort food, from perfectly steamed dim sum to hearty rice bowls and soothing congee.

For many New Yorkers, especially those who grew up frequenting the area, Mee Sum Cafe represents a comforting slice of the past. Its humble exterior and bustling interior create a sense of stepping into a cherished, old-school eatery where the focus is entirely on the food. The menu is expansive, yet every item feels familiar and expertly prepared. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast before work, a satisfying lunch, or a casual dinner, Mee Sum Cafe offers a delicious and genuine experience that is both filling and friendly on your wallet. This article will serve as your guide to this Chinatown institution, exploring its location, its menu highlights, and why it has earned a loyal following among both locals and tourists.

Mee Sum Cafe is conveniently situated at 26 Pell St, New York, NY 10013, USA. Pell Street itself is a narrow, curved thoroughfare, one of the oldest streets in Chinatown, making it a unique and atmospheric setting for a meal. The restaurant's location is easily accessible from multiple subway lines, including the 6, N, Q, R, W, and J, which stop at nearby Canal Street. Its central position makes it an ideal spot for a quick bite while exploring the neighborhood, or a destination in its own right for a delicious, authentic meal.

While street parking is a challenge in this busy part of Manhattan, the restaurant’s walkability and proximity to public transit make it a convenient choice for most visitors. The bustling streets of Chinatown are part of the experience, offering a sensory journey before you even step inside. The cafe's easy access and prominent location on a well-known street make it simple to find for first-time visitors and a regular stop for locals.

Mee Sum Cafe provides service options that cater to the needs of its diverse clientele, from busy professionals to families and solo diners.

• Dine-in: The casual, laid-back atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed meal. The table service ensures a comfortable dining experience, whether you're having a solo lunch or a meal with friends. The interior, though humble, feels authentic and welcoming.
• Takeaway: For those on the go, the takeaway service is a popular choice. The food is packaged quickly and efficiently, allowing you to enjoy your meal while continuing your walk through the neighborhood or heading back home.
• Reservations: While often bustling, Mee Sum Cafe accepts reservations, a useful amenity for those planning a visit during peak hours or for larger groups.

The cafe is a go-to spot for any meal of the day, with dining options available for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Its status as a great place for solo dining also makes it a welcoming spot for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal on their own.

What makes Mee Sum Cafe a standout in a city filled with restaurants? A few key features explain its enduring popularity.

• Authentic and Unpretentious: This is a place that values tradition over trends. The food is made with a clear sense of authenticity, and the atmosphere is genuinely casual and unpretentious.
• Exceptional Value: The prices here are a major draw. You can enjoy a filling, delicious meal for a very low cost, which is a rare find in New York City. From dim sum plates starting at just a few dollars to full meals for under US$10, it's incredibly budget-friendly.
• Extensive Menu: The menu at Mee Sum Cafe is remarkably broad, offering everything from classic dim sum to hearty rice and noodle dishes, as well as a variety of Hong Kong-style toasts and sandwiches.
• Great Tea Selection: The cafe is known for its excellent selection of teas, including traditional milk tea and other beverage options like Ovaltine and Holick, which are a perfect complement to the food.
• Comfort Food Focus: The offerings here are classic comfort food. Dishes like rice congee, beef stew, and sticky rice wraps provide a warm and satisfying experience that feels like a home-cooked meal.

The cafe’s simple design and focus on food quality have made it a favorite among a diverse crowd, particularly tourists seeking a true local experience. Its longevity on a street known for its culinary history is a testament to its consistent quality and value.

For more information, here is how you can reach Mee Sum Cafe:

• Address: 26 Pell St, New York, NY 10013, USA
• Phone: (212) 349-5260

With such a vast menu, first-timers might feel overwhelmed. Here are some top recommendations for what to try at Mee Sum Cafe:

Dim Sum and Appetizers:

The dim sum here is a must-try. The Shrimp Dim Sum (Har Gow) and Pork Dim Sum (Siu Mai) are both highly praised for being fresh, juicy, and flavorful. The Spare Ribs Dim Sum are another popular choice, known for being savory and not greasy. The variety of Rice Rolls (Cheung Fun) with different fillings like beef, shrimp, or roast pork are also excellent, offering a delicate texture and savory taste.

Rice In Box:

For a satisfying and filling meal, the "Rice In Box" section is the way to go. The Salted Chicken Leg On Rice is a standout, providing a generous portion of tender, flavorful chicken over a bed of rice. Other popular choices include the Beef & Fried Egg On Rice and the Spare Ribs & Fried Egg On Rice, which are simple, hearty, and delicious.

Noodles and Soups:

The noodle and wonton soups are perfect for a comforting meal, especially on a chilly day. The Wonton Noodle Soup and the more substantial Beef Stew Wonton Noodle Soup are great options. The bowls are generously sized and packed with flavor, making them a complete meal in themselves.

Breakfast and Morning Favorites:

For those who visit in the morning, the congee and steamed buns are essential. The Preserved Egg Porridge is a classic, while the Big Bun With Pork & Chicken or a simple Roast Pork Bun are excellent, inexpensive choices for a quick breakfast. The wide array of toasts and sandwiches also makes it a great spot for a taste of Hong Kong-style breakfast.

Mee Sum Cafe is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural touchstone in New York’s Chinatown. It’s a place that has maintained its authenticity and affordability for years, earning the trust of a community that knows good food. Its menu, while vast, is a tribute to traditional Cantonese fare, and every dish is a reminder of the simple, satisfying pleasure of a well-prepared meal. Whether you're a local craving a taste of home or a visitor looking to experience a genuine slice of New York's culinary landscape, Mee Sum Cafe is an essential stop. Its no-frills, all-flavor approach makes it a timeless institution and a perfect example of what makes this city’s food scene so special.

Mee Sum Cafe

26 Pell St, New York, NY 10013, USA