NYC Restaurants

You might need a translator to identify all of the items on the menu at He Yi Xiaochi, along with the sign out front which is also written in Chinese. The tiny shop may look like a typical takeout joint but don’t let that stop you from going inside. Otherwise, you might miss out on the wonderful oxtail soup with tart wolfberry seeds and mushrooms. You can get it with noodles, but it's not necessary. The rich, earthy broth stands on its own. A bowl of wonton noodle soup is dotted with tiny handmade dumplings stuffed with a savory and sweet pork filling. Steamed dumplings arrive ten to a plate. Grab one of several dipping sauces on the table, dip and eat. Ten might not be enough. Thin pan-fried noodles, called Mei Fun, are available with several options. We ordered the “geoduck" which is actually made from a giant clam with a long protruding tongue usually found on the Pacific coast. In fact, there are a number of Chinese delicacies on the menu, including duck kidney, dried jackknife and meat skin wontons. Prices are inexpensive and portions are quite large allowing you to explore.

- Thomas Rafael