My search for the best dumplings in New York continues….
As I was leaving Shu Jiao Fu Zhou, someone spied me taking photos and politely told me how great the place was and that he comes there every day. Not sure if that was a plea for me to give it attention or a warning to not make his tiny Chinese spot over-run with foodies. I wish I had that much power.
Either way, I’m glad I discovered it and I agree with that guy. The place is great.
Specializing in Fujianese food, the dumplings, noodles, and soups are all absurdly affordable. I had three large plates and I paid less than $10 total.
The clear broth that the fish balls were floating in was as delicate and complex as anything I’ve had at a high-end restaurant. Its subtle scallion and celery notes gave the tender fish balls a perfect bath.
I also really liked the peanut buttery noodles that had a wonderful spring and bite to them.
But the dumplings are what I was really here to focus on and they did not disappoint. Their translucent skins showed off bright green scallions snuggle comfortably inside.
Revealing their mellow innards was delightful. Amidst the mellow pork, there were subtle flavors of anise and onions. The brewed brown sauce stood apart from most Chinatown dumpling joints with its complex sweetness and tang. The dumpling skins were also one of the moist I’ve yet to try.
The food at Shu Jiao Fu Zhou is excellent. I’ve had Fujianese food in the past in this neighborhood and have never been too impressed. Here, the flavors really stand out, the prices are right, and the regular customers (like me, I hope) have very refined palates.
Does Shu Jiao Fu Zhou make the best dumplings in NY? Their smooth skins and complex fillings put them squarely on the map as being a true contender. 9 out of 10.
| SHU JIAO FU ZHOU |
| 118 Eldridge Street (at Broome Street), Chinatown (212) 625-2532 |
