Nom Wah Tea Parlor garners a positive reputation as a beloved spot for dim sum in NYC, with customers frequently lauding the food's quality. The majority view the dishes as delicious, highlighting the scallion pancakes, shrimp balls, stuffed eggplant, and various dumplings and rolls among their favorites. Notably, the restaurant's ambiance receives praise for its historic charm and throwback decor reminiscent of the mid-20th century Hong Kong cafes. However, some diners express concerns regarding service speed and quality, and the payment options seem to be an inconvenience for some, as the establishment is largely cash-only or accepts American Express. Recurring themes in reviews touch upon the generally reasonable prices, the expected wait times due to popularity, and the unique, tasty offerings of the menu, yet also include less positive aspects like cramped seating and occasional service hiccups.
Customers consistently report that Nom Wah Tea Parlor offers a high-quality dim sum experience that is well worth the wait, sometimes noted as quick even with a line. Positive highlights include efficient and fast service, reasonable prices, and unique flavor profiles across menu items such as the scallion pancakes, shrimp balls, eggplant, egg rolls, and various dumplings and soups. The restaurant is celebrated for its ambiance, which exudes charm and history, contributing to a more authentic dining experience. The repeat visits by customers, the willingness to wait in line, and specific dish recommendations suggest strong customer satisfaction related to the menu's offerings.
Despite its many positives, Nom Wah Tea Parlor faces criticism surrounding particular areas of the customer experience. Reviews indicate that the seating can feel cramped and that the restaurant's popularity can lead to substantial lines. Certain patrons found the food only decent rather than exceptional, and issues with service were noted—a sense that the service could be improved, from forgetting items to being generally slower than desired. Moreover, the payment options present an inconvenience, as the restaurant's adherence to being mostly cash-only, or at times accepting only American Express, does not align well with some diners' expectations in a time when card payments are very common. Additionally, some customers mention that certain dishes and the restroom facilities could benefit from improvements.
Based on customer feedback, must-try dishes include the scallion pancakes, shrimp balls, stuffed eggplant, egg rolls, spare ribs with flat noodles, and fried shrimp with bean curd skin rolls.
Nom Wah Tea Parlor is predominantly a cash-only establishment. They do accept American Express, but if you prefer to use other credit cards, it's best to prepare cash ahead of your visit.
Given its popularity, there are often lines, especially during peak times. It is advisable to arrive earlier, before noon, or during off-peak times to minimize the wait.
Vintage dim sum parlor dating back to 1920 with a drink menu that includes tea, beer & wine.
