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Zongzi Lady
Master Critic Review
Zongzi Lady
7.9
Often referred to simply as “Zongzi Lady,” this sidewalk vendor near Grand Street sells bamboo-wrapped sticky rice dumplings packed with pork, peanuts, and salted egg. Regulars treat it as a grab-and-go ritual before work, errands, or a night out nearby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Savory Pork and Peanut Zongzi, Salted Egg Pork Zongzi, Sweet Red Bean Zongzi
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Homemade-style zongzi sold straight from a steamer basket on the street.
Who should go: Snackers wanting portable, traditional sticky rice dumplings.
When to visit: Mornings and early afternoons before popular flavors sell out.
What to order: Pork peanut zongzi, salted egg version, sweet red bean.
Insider tip: Bring cash and expect to eat your zongzi on the go.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on Grand and surrounding side streets but turnover is high due to the vendor’s grab-and-go nature.
Dress code: No dress code — it’s a sidewalk food stop where anything from gym clothes to work attire is normal.
Noise level: Low; it’s outdoors on the sidewalk, so you’ll hear street traffic but no indoor crowd noise.
Weekend wait: Usually no formal wait; you may encounter a short line of 3–6 people depending on timing.
Weekday lunch: Often immediate service with minimal to no line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — the sweet red bean zongzi is typically vegetarian, though fillings vary by day.
Vegan options: Possible — some sweet versions may be vegan, but confirm on arrival as fillings can change.
Gluten-free options: Generally yes — traditional zongzi use glutinous rice (no wheat gluten), but cross-contact is likely since everything is made and wrapped together.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless your date appreciates street food adventures; it’s a grab-and-go stand with no seating or ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no tables or reservations — it’s takeout only, and most people eat while walking or find a nearby bench.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick snacks; the soft, sticky rice can be easy for kids to eat, but keep in mind it’s a sidewalk setup with no seating or stroller space.
Best For
Better for: Traditional, homestyle sticky rice dumplings that feel handmade and cost far less than most Chinatown sit-down spots.
Skip if: You want seating, a full menu, or a longer meal — in those cases, a nearby Fujianese or Cantonese restaurant is a better fit.