Gong hei fat choy! My family has been learning about Chinese New Year for the past few weeks, and we spent an afternoon getting a taste of China in Chinatown. This unique and bustling neighborhood is chock full of culture, delicious restaurants and sites for the whole family, any time of year.
Hwa Yuan opened in 2017, but is a relaunch of the original Hwa Yuan Szechuan Inn, the famed restaurant responsible for introducing New York to cold sesame noodles. The new restaurant opened at the same location, and is the perfect place to bring your family for a meal or celebratory occasion. My kids loved the light scallion pancakes, moo shu vegetable and cold noodles. Skip the long line at Nom Wah Tea Parlor – the friendly staff, tasty food, clean restaurant and available high chairs make this a great option for families with young children.
While you are shopping for souvenirs or snapping firecrackers on the sidewalk, keep your eye out for a flying Pegasus on Pell Street. If you spot the flying horse, you are just steps away from Juicy Spot Café and its over-the-top Thai Ice Cream Rolls. Your family can watch while their creations are rolled, topped and drizzled to create an Insta-worthy decadent treat.
Head to Hester Street, between Forsyth and Chrystie, to burn off that sugar high at Hester Street Playground before you head home. The large and modern playground includes a toddler area, spongy grounds and sand pit.
