South of the Clouds 云之南 Greenwich Village

- 16 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011

If you're in search of a culinary adventure that goes beyond the typical Chinese takeout, look no further than South of the Clouds 云之南 in Greenwich Village. This restaurant specializes in authentic Yunnan cuisine, a regional style of cooking from the Yunnan province in southwestern China. Known for its rich, layered flavors and unique ingredients, Yunnan food often features a mix of spicy, sour, and fresh elements. South of the Clouds brings this distinctive regional fare to New York City, offering a menu centered around **mixian** (rice noodles), which are a staple of Yunnanese cuisine. The atmosphere here is casual and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. It’s particularly popular for lunch and dinner, drawing a crowd that appreciates its authentic flavors and fast service. The restaurant is perfect for solo diners or groups looking for a flavorful and efficient meal. With a menu that includes a variety of rice noodle dishes, from soups to stir-fries, along with chef-recommended specials and appetizers, South of the Clouds offers a comprehensive taste of a region's food that is still relatively uncommon in the city.

The core of the menu revolves around **rice noodles**, which are praised by customers for their correct texture—a detail often difficult to get right. You can try a variety of styles, from the classic **Signature Yunnan Crossing Bridge** noodle soup to the **Tofu Pudding Dry Mixed Rice Noodle** and the **Spicy Boiled Fish**. The chef specials section provides an opportunity to explore other unique dishes, such as the **Smoked Pork Slices** and **Yunnan Fried Stuffed Tofu**. Customers have praised the food for being delicious and flavorful, with the **Dry Stir-Fried Beef** being singled out for its distinctive fresh mint flavor. While some reviewers have noted that the menu represents a more limited subset of Yunnanese cuisine and that portions can be on the smaller side, this also allows diners to try a greater variety of dishes. The restaurant's commitment to authentic ingredients and fast service makes it a reliable choice for a quick and satisfying meal. For those who appreciate regional Chinese cuisine and are looking to try something new, South of the Clouds offers a great entry point into the world of Yunnanese flavors.

South of the Clouds 云之南 is conveniently located at 16 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011, USA, in the heart of Greenwich Village. This area is a culinary and cultural hub, making the restaurant easily accessible for New Yorkers and visitors alike. The location is just a short walk from major subway stations, allowing for a quick and simple trip from various parts of the city. For those who are driving, paid street parking is available in the vicinity. The restaurant offers a variety of service options to fit your needs, including **outdoor seating**, **dine-in**, **takeout**, **delivery**, and even **no-contact delivery**. This flexibility makes it a convenient choice whether you're looking for a relaxed meal on-site or a quick, flavorful bite to enjoy at home. The restaurant is designed with a casual atmosphere, which contributes to its accessibility. While the provided information doesn’t explicitly state wheelchair accessibility, its location and service options indicate a focus on convenience. The fact that it's located in a bustling, central neighborhood also means it’s a perfect spot to grab a bite before or after exploring the many shops and attractions of Greenwich Village.

Services Offered

• Outdoor seating, dine-in, and takeout.
• Delivery and no-contact delivery options.
• Serves lunch and dinner.
• Table service is provided.
• Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Accommodates solo diners and groups.
• Offers a full beverage menu including alcohol, beer, and coffee.
• Kid-friendly atmosphere and dishes.

Features / Highlights

• **Fast service**, ensuring a quick and efficient dining experience.
• Specializes in **authentic Yunnan cuisine**, providing a unique regional Chinese food experience.
• Known for flavorful dishes and good-quality ingredients.
• Casual and welcoming atmosphere.
• Popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.
• Offers a wide range of **rice noodle** dishes and chef specials.
• Provides quick bite options.
• **Kid-friendly** environment.

Contact Information

Address: 16 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011, USA

Phone: (212) 888-9653

What is worth choosing?

What makes South of the Clouds a worthwhile choice for New Yorkers is its focus on an authentic, yet accessible, regional Chinese cuisine. While many Chinese restaurants in the city focus on well-known styles, South of the Clouds provides a unique opportunity to try flavors from the Yunnan province, which are a delightful mix of savory, spicy, and often fresh. The **rice noodles**, or mixian, are a key reason to visit, as their texture and quality are praised as being rare to find. For a first-timer, a must-try dish is the **Signature Yunnan Crossing Bridge**, a traditional and iconic dish that provides a great introduction to the cuisine. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the **Shredded Beef with Green Pepper Rice Noodle** or the **Pu'er Spicy Ox Aorta** are excellent, flavorful choices.

The restaurant’s fast service is a huge benefit, especially for a lunch break or a quick dinner. The casual atmosphere means you can come as you are, and it’s a great spot for both solo dining and a relaxed meal with friends. The food is noted for being delicious and well-flavored, with one reviewer specifically mentioning the **dry stir-fried beef** with fresh mint as a standout. While some may find the portions on the smaller side or the menu to be more limited than other Yunnan establishments, this allows for a focused and high-quality dining experience. The availability of outdoor seating and delivery services adds to its convenience, making it a flexible choice for any occasion. Overall, if you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons and taste the unique and authentic flavors of Yunnan cuisine, South of the Clouds is a solid and reliable option in the heart of Greenwich Village.

South of the Clouds 云之南 Greenwich Village

16 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011, USA