Mott Street Eatery

Har Gow (Steamed Shrimp Dumplings)

Mott Street Eatery is the first food court in Manhattan's Chinatown. Boasting a total of 12 stalls, it offers a variety of tasty options to both locals and visitors alike. It also provides an affordable alternative for food entrepreneurs who cannot afford the startup cost of opening their own restaurants. Many stall owners lost their jobs during the pandemic but found a way to continue their livelihoods at Mott Street Eatery.

Justin, one of the owners of Mott Street Eatery, is a first-generation, American-born Chinese. A Queens native, he has been coming to Manhattan's Chinatown since childhood. His family is originally from Taishan, China, where many early Chinese immigrants trace their origins. His great-great-grandfather even worked on the Transcontinental Railroad!

Justin's father was in the US Marines and drafted during the Vietnam War. After the war, his father opened a Chinese restaurant in the 1980s. Before the COVID pandemic, Justin worked in business but always dreamed of opening his own restaurant. He later thought of opening a food court as he has fond memories of visiting the food courts in Queens with his family and friends. Instead of debating where and what to eat, everyone could order what they wanted and have a good time.

Justin signed the paperwork in December 2019. However, the pandemic delayed the opening because permits and construction were all backed up. After many hurdles and negotiations, Mott Street Eatery finally opened in early November 2021, taking over the old Joy Luck Palace space.

The food court's best seller is their dim sum, but they also offer barbecued meats, Japanese omakase, burgers, pizza, baked goods, and much more. Follow them on Instagram for more updates on future vendors. You don't want to miss out!

📍 Mott Street Eatery
98 Mott Street, New York, NY 10013