New Jersey may not have a Chinatown like New York City, but its Chinese food scene is just as vibrant. With a strong Chinese-American community, NJ is home to authentic restaurants, bustling supermarkets, and cultural hubs that bring a slice of China to the Garden State. Whether you’re looking for the best dumplings, a deep dive into Chinese festivals, or a guide to hidden culinary gems, this guide has you covered.
Beyond just food, NJ’s Chinese community is deeply rooted in tradition, with language schools, cultural organizations, and annual celebrations bringing people together. From the Dragon Boat Festival to Mid-Autumn gatherings, these events keep heritage alive while welcoming others to experience Chinese customs.
For those eager to explore, this guide highlights the best places to eat, shop, and celebrate all things Chinese in New Jersey. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a curious traveler, there’s plenty to discover in NJ’s thriving Chinese scene.
NJ’s Chinese culture is a blend of history, food, and modern influences. From hole-in-the-wall eateries serving dishes passed down for generations to contemporary Asian fusion spots putting a new spin on classic flavors, the variety is unmatched. You’ll find not just restaurants but also hidden tea houses, vibrant markets, and traditional herbal shops that add to the authenticity of the experience.
A Brief History of Chinese Communities in NJ
Early Immigration and Settlement
Chinese immigrants first arrived in NJ in the late 19th century, primarily settling in Newark and other industrial hubs. Many worked in laundries and restaurants, forming the foundation of NJ’s Chinese community.
Growth of Chinese Enclaves
By the mid-20th century, Chinese families moved into suburban towns like Edison, Parsippany, and Fort Lee, leading to the rise of Chinese businesses, restaurants, and cultural centers.
Modern Chinese Influence in NJ
Today, NJ has one of the fastest-growing Chinese populations in the U.S. Cities like East Brunswick and Princeton have thriving Chinese communities, hosting cultural events and opening authentic eateries.
Best Places for Authentic Chinese Food in NJ
Northern NJ (Newark, Fort Lee, Edison, etc.)
- Sichuan Cottage (Marlboro): Known for its mouth-numbing mapo tofu and spicy hot pot.
- Shanghai 46 (Fairfield): Specializes in soup dumplings and Shanghainese dishes.
- Hunan Taste (Denville): Offers classic Hunan-style spicy dishes in a traditional setting.
Central NJ (Princeton, East Brunswick, Somerset, etc.)
- Chengdu 1 Palace (Green Brook): Authentic Sichuan dishes with bold flavors.
- Wonder Seafood (Edison): A must-visit for Cantonese dim sum lovers.
- Shanghai Bun (Princeton): Famous for soup dumplings and noodle dishes.
Southern NJ (Cherry Hill, Atlantic City, etc.)
- Han Dynasty (Cherry Hill): A popular spot for fiery Sichuan food.
- Dim Sum House (Voorhees): Serves fresh dumplings and steamed buns.
- East Chinatown (Atlantic City): A hidden gem offering authentic Chinese street food.
Hidden Gems: Where Locals Go for Real Chinese Food
Family-Owned Restaurants
Many small, family-run Chinese eateries offer the most authentic flavors. Check out Szechuan House in Hamilton and Chendu 23 in Wayne for traditional home-style cooking.
Underrated Dumpling and Noodle Spots
- Xian’s Famous Foods (Edison): Known for their hand-pulled noodles and spicy lamb burgers.
- Dumpling King (East Brunswick): Offers homemade dumplings with unique fillings.
How to Spot an Authentic Chinese Restaurant
- A Chinese-language menu or staff speaking Mandarin or Cantonese.
- Dishes not Americanized, such as duck tongue, bitter melon, or century eggs.
- A focus on regional cuisine rather than a mix of styles.
Chinese Supermarkets & Bakeries in NJ
Top Chinese Grocery Stores
New Jersey is home to several large Chinese supermarkets, offering everything from fresh seafood to hard-to-find spices. These stores provide an authentic shopping experience and a wide range of imported goods:
| Supermarket | Location | Specialty |
| Kam Man Foods | Edison | Fresh seafood, imported sauces, Asian produce |
| H Mart | Fort Lee | Asian groceries, ready-made meals, kitchen essentials |
| 99 Ranch Market | Jersey City | Chinese snacks, spices, fresh produce, live seafood |
| Great Wall Supermarket | South Plainfield | Wide selection of frozen dumplings, noodles, and meats |
| Asian Food Market | Piscataway | Offers specialty ingredients from multiple Asian cuisines |
Best Chinese Bakeries
Chinese bakeries in NJ offer a delicious assortment of pastries, buns, and sweets that reflect traditional and modern Chinese flavors. Here are some top spots to visit:
- Sunmerry Bakery (Edison): Famous for its egg tarts, red bean buns, and pineapple cakes.
- Paris Baguette (Fort Lee): A fusion bakery offering soft breads, cakes, and mochi-filled delights.
- King’s Bakery (Parsippany): Specializes in fluffy sponge cakes and traditional mooncakes.
- Tai Pan Bakery (Jersey City): A go-to for buttercream cakes and custard-filled pastries.
- Bread King Bakery (Cherry Hill): Offers a wide selection of savory and sweet baked goods.
Must-Try Chinese Desserts
- Egg Tarts: A rich custard-filled pastry with a flaky crust.
- Mango Sago: A creamy and refreshing dessert made with mango puree, tapioca pearls, and coconut milk.
- Red Bean Buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns filled with smooth red bean paste.
- Sesame Balls (Jian Dui): Crispy fried rice flour balls filled with red bean or lotus seed paste.
- Matcha Swiss Roll: A light sponge cake with matcha-flavored whipped cream filling.
Conclusion
New Jersey has a rich and diverse Chinese community that continues to grow and thrive. Whether you’re indulging in authentic cuisine, exploring cultural festivals, or shopping for imported ingredients, there’s no shortage of ways to experience Chinese culture in NJ.
From the streets of Edison’s Chinatown district to hidden dumpling spots in Fort Lee, every corner of NJ offers a unique taste of Chinese heritage. The presence of Chinese supermarkets, bakeries, and tea houses ensures that both locals and visitors can experience authentic flavors and traditions firsthand. As the community continues to expand, so does the opportunity to explore and appreciate the richness of Chinese culture in New Jersey.
FAQs
What’s the best Chinese restaurant in NJ?
Sichuan Cottage in Marlboro and Hunan Taste in Denville are top-rated.
Where can I find authentic dim sum?
Wonder Seafood in Edison and Dim Sum House in Voorhees.
Which NJ city has the largest Chinese community?
Edison and Fort Lee have the highest Chinese populations.
Where can I buy Chinese ingredients in NJ?
99 Ranch Market and Kam Man Foods offer a wide selection.
Are there any good Chinese bakeries in NJ?
Sunmerry Bakery and King’s Bakery are excellent choices.
When is the Chinese New Year celebrated in NJ?
Typically January or February, with major celebrations in Edison and Jersey City.
What’s the best place for hot pot in NJ?
Nine Ting in Edison is a favorite among locals.
Where can I find Chinese cultural events in NJ?
Princeton and Livingston host many Chinese festivals.
What’s the best hidden gem for Chinese food?
Chendu 23 in Wayne is highly underrated.
Where can I learn Mandarin in NJ?
Huaxia Chinese School and Princeton Chinese Language School offer excellent programs.