Best Chinese Restaurants in Upper West Side (Central)
6 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Han Dynasty
High-volume Sichuan specialist where classic spicy dishes stay remarkably consistent.
Notable Picks
#1
Han Dynasty
8.3
Philadelphia-born Sichuan mini-chain from founder Han Chiang, the Upper West Side Han Dynasty brings big-heat classics and chili oil-heavy plates to a roomy two-level space near 85th Street. Locals lean on it for group dinners built around dan dan noodles, dry-fried dishes, and a long list of regional specialties that stay remarkably consistent given the volume.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dan Dan Noodles, Dry Pepper Chicken, Cumin Lamb
What makes it special: High-volume Sichuan specialist where classic spicy dishes stay remarkably consistent.
Tri Dim Shanghai West focuses on Shanghainese and Sichuan dishes in a comfortable Columbus Avenue dining room with both dim sum and full entrées. Regulars come for soup dumplings, Peking duck, and a broad menu that works equally well for family-style dinners and slightly dressed-up nights out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shanghai Steamed Pork Juicy Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao), Peking Duck, Young Chow Fried Rice
What makes it special: Shanghai-leaning menu with xiao long bao and Peking duck in a polished but comfortable room.
Worthy Picks
7.9
Local outpost of the cult favorite chain known for hand‑pulled noodles and rich, spicy lamb dishes with strong Northwestern Chinese influences. Despite being part of a small local group, this location delivers the same bold flavors that made the brand popular with delivery and dine‑in crowds. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Cumin Lamb Noodles, Biang Biang Noodles, Stewed Pork Burger
What makes it special: Bold Northwestern Chinese noodle flavors on the UWS
7.6
The Upper West Side outpost of decades-old Cantonese dim sum name Jing Fong offers rolling-cart-style brunch plates in a compact two-level space on Amsterdam. Diners use it for weekend dim sum, rice rolls, and stir-fried noodles when they want a sit-down experience without heading to Chinatown.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp Har Gow Dumplings, Pork Siu Mai, Beef Chow Fun
What makes it special: Neighborhood dim sum outpost of a long-running Cantonese banquet brand.
#5
Dragon 89
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Established in 1994, Dragon 89 is a primarily takeout-focused Chinese spot on Amsterdam that emphasizes fresher, lower-oil cooking and friendly service. Upper West Siders treat it as a reliable option for weeknight combo platters, soups, and fried rice that arrive hot, fast, and fairly priced.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seafood Combination, Chicken with Broccoli, Fried Wontons
What makes it special: Long-running, mostly takeout Chinese counter known for fresh, low-oil cooking.
#6
New Cottage
7.5
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Reopened in 2021 at 78th and Broadway, New Cottage updates a longtime Upper West Side Chinese staple with a broad Szechuan and Cantonese menu, lunch specials, and family-style options. It’s a go-to for neighborhood dine-in and takeout when you want big portions, familiar flavors, and the option to sit down with a crowd.
Must-Try Dishes:
Peanut Sauce Dumplings, Cumin Fish Fillet, General Tso's Chicken
What makes it special: Revived neighborhood Chinese standby with a long, mix-and-match Szechuan–Cantonese menu.