New York City’s tiny, underground eatery, Wo Hop, has earned the prestigious, James Beard Foundation Award in 2022. Family owned since 1938, Wo Hop has hosted the cast of “Mrs. Mazel,” Presidents, as well as locals and travelers alike. Join us as we dig into the Asian-American fare in New York City’s Chinatown.
The glossy tiles gave the illusion that we were about to take a subway ride. As we reached the last step a silver-haired gentleman, wearing a baby blue chef’s coat, greeted us. “How many?” he asked. “Two.” I replied as my eyes wandered around the tiny space, taking in the restaurant that I’d seen on “Mrs. Mazel.” The decorated dollar bills covered all the walls! Signed photos of stars adorned the ventilation system.
Each table was occupied except for the one being cleared by a waiter. “You sit over dere.” the host looked over his reading glasses and set his hand in the air toward the booth with a royal blue tabletop. I turned to Chuck, “I think that’s Mrs. Mazel’s booth!” raising my brow for emphasis. As we sat, the photos taped to the mirror confirmed my hypothesis. Rachel Brosnahan and Luke Kirby had sat right here for a scene in their final season.
“Look!” we examined the photos. “This is the booth!” I bounced in my seat, smiling before I even opened the extensive menu.
Chuck and I studied the decorated dollar bills near our seat. Apparently, Rachel and Luke had signed a dollar and stuck it on the ceiling. We also saw signed pictures of Presidents who’ve eaten here.
We ordered dumplings and Lo Mein. Delicious Asian-American sustenance.
Americans like this style and not very many restaurants in Chinatown sell it anymore.”
Wo Hop means “harmony.” This cozy, below ground nook holds a special melody, for sure! It is the second oldest restaurant in Manhattan’s Chinatown. Today, David and Ming Huang have owned and managed this cash-only establishment for the past twenty years. They are the third generation.
“We have some of the most dedicated customers around. Some come weekly and even daily. It’s fast casual dining and delicious.” David and Ming have stated, “We have a huge tourist customer base since they love to spread the word to their family and friends when they return home and via posts on Yelp and Facebook. No frills here, just reliable tasty food!”
Wo Hop is located at 17 Mott Street. 享受 Xiǎngshòu! Enjoy!
