Our local experts have handpicked a selection of Chinatown’s most mouthwatering delicacies – and combined it with the historical narratives which give you a newfound appreciation for Chinatown’s unique position as one of the largest immigrant communities in North America. During this 3 hour tour, we’ll contextualize local monuments, schools, and temples as we learn about Chinese-American history and social justice.

Your tour begins from the center of Chinatown, with an introduction to the neighborhood’s historical foundations. Home to one of the densest immigrant populations in the country, this part of New York is like none other — the markets, small eateries, stands, shops, and streets will transport you to China. Its rich history, culture, and traditions are incredibly alive here, both in the food and the other sites you’ll see along the way.

 

After a briefing on the area, you’ll set off on your culinary journey, stopping at several styles of establishments which may include a tea parlor, a market, a sweet shop, a dumpling house, or another local style eatery. Along the way, let your expert know of any particular interests (or cravings) you might have while exploring this unique side of New York. 

As your taste your way through the growing neighborhood, we will contextualize historical monuments that have had a great influence on Chinese culture and New Yorkers alike. A visit to Chinatown would be remiss without a stop at Doyers Street. An influx of Chinese people into America and the Long Depression of the 1870s led to the Chinese Exclusion Act–causing racial discrimination and inevitably clans and associations to provide protection. 

What became known as the “Bloody Angle,” the Doyers street intersection was at the center of more deaths in one year than at any other street intersection in the United States. The narrow, near ninety-degree angle street, was lined with tenement buildings which were also prone to fires that were incredibly difficult to put out. A street that caused an NYC mayor to suggest that the entire neighborhood be replaced is now a thriving center for tourists and locals to enjoy speakeasy bars and delicious Chinese food restaurants.

 

By the end of our walk, you'll come away with an appreciation for and understanding of the rich Asian culinary tradition that still exists in Chinatown. Using the lessons learned with our gastronomic expert, you'll also comfortably be able to navigate the neighborhood’s best eateries and shops during your next trip to New York City.

To continue your exploration of NYC, take a look at our Italian Food Tour, New York in a Day Tour, and Met Museum Crash Course Tour.

For more information about Context tours, please visit our FAQs.
Book with confidence — See Context's flexible cancellation policy here. 

Where do we meet? Where does it end?

We usually meet near the Chinatown information Kiosk and end near Kulu Desserts on Grand Street, though your route may differ slightly according to your guide. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map.

Is this suitable for children? 

Yes, we can tailor this walk to adventurous eaters in your party. Please let us know the children's ages at time of booking. 

 
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, several stops on this tour do have front steps which can be hard to maneuver with strollers or wheelchairs. Please reach out to our team at info@contexttravel.com to share your mobility concerns and we can discuss if an expert has an adaptable route for your needs.

Yes. If anyone in your group has specific allergies or intolerances, you must indicate these in the Notes section when booking. Your guide will do their best to accommodate. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and nut-free diets can certainly be accommodated, although the shops we visit do use wheat flour and nuts in the kitchen for other items.