House of Joy, nestled in the heart of New York City’s Chinatown, has been a beloved destination for authentic Chinese cuisine for over three decades. Established in 1988, this family-owned restaurant has garnered a reputation for its unwavering commitment to traditional flavors and time-honored cooking techniques.
Situated at 28 Pell Street, House of Joy’s convenient location makes it a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. The moment you step inside, you’re transported to a warm and inviting atmosphere, where the aroma of sizzling woks and the gentle hum of conversation create a truly immersive dining experience.
What sets House of Joy apart is its dedication to preserving the essence of Chinese culinary heritage. Every dish is meticulously prepared using the freshest ingredients and age-old recipes passed down through generations. From the delicate art of dim sum to the robust flavors of noodle soups and rice dishes, each bite is a testament to the restaurant’s passion for authenticity.
Dim Sum Delicacies
House of Joy’s dim sum offerings are a true delight, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine. From steaming bamboo baskets to delicate porcelain plates, the restaurant presents an array of delectable small bites that tantalize the senses.
One of the standout items is the Steamed Crystal Shrimp Dumpling, a delicate translucent wrapper encasing succulent shrimp and perfectly seasoned pork filling. These dumplings are meticulously crafted by skilled chefs, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.
Another crowd favorite is the Steamed Spare Rib, where tender pork ribs are marinated in a savory sauce and steamed to perfection. The meat falls off the bone, offering a delightful combination of tenderness and robust flavors.
For those seeking a unique culinary adventure, the Steamed Chicken Feet with Black Bean Sauce is a must-try. This traditional dish may seem unconventional, but the chicken feet are expertly prepared, resulting in a gelatinous texture that pairs perfectly with the rich, umami-packed black bean sauce.
House of Joy’s dim sum offerings extend far beyond these highlights, with a diverse selection of steamed buns, dumplings, and savory treats. Each item is prepared with meticulous attention to detail, using time-honored techniques passed down through generations of Chinese culinary masters.
Fried Rice and Noodle Specialties
House of Joy’s menu boasts an impressive array of fried rice and noodle dishes that showcase the rich flavors and culinary artistry of Chinese cuisine. One of the signature offerings is the Beef Chow Fun, a mouthwatering combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and chewy rice noodles stir-fried to perfection. The noodles are infused with a savory sauce that strikes a perfect balance between salty and sweet, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
Another standout dish is the Braised E-Fu Noodles with Crab Meat. This delicacy features delicate e-fu noodles, a type of thin, wheat-based noodle, cooked to a silky texture and combined with succulent crab meat. The noodles are braised in a rich, umami-packed broth, infusing them with an incredible depth of flavor. Each bite bursts with the sweetness of the crab meat, complemented by the savory notes of the broth.
For those seeking a classic fried rice dish, House of Joy’s Yang Chow Fried Rice is a must-try. This dish combines fluffy rice with a medley of diced vegetables, scrambled eggs, and your choice of protein, such as shrimp, beef, or chicken. The rice is expertly seasoned with a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and aromatic spices, resulting in a harmonious fusion of flavors and textures.
Vegetarians and plant-based diners will delight in the restaurant’s Vegetable Fried Rice, a vibrant and flavorful dish packed with an assortment of fresh vegetables, including carrots, peas, corn, and mushrooms. The rice is cooked to perfection and infused with a savory vegetable broth, creating a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Noodle Soups and Rice Combos
For those seeking a hearty and satisfying meal, House of Joy’s noodle soups and rice combos are sure to delight. The restaurant’s noodle soup offerings are a comforting celebration of flavors, with each bowl brimming with tender noodles, succulent proteins, and a rich, savory broth.
One standout dish is the Beef Stew Soup with Rice Noodles, a beloved classic that showcases the restaurant’s mastery of slow-simmered broths. Chunks of tender beef, carrots, and aromatic spices come together in a deeply flavorful broth, complemented by chewy rice noodles that soak up every ounce of the savory liquid. This soul-warming dish is a perfect choice for a chilly day or a satisfying meal any time.
For those seeking a heartier option, House of Joy’s rice combos are a feast in themselves. These generous portions feature a selection of flavorful entrees accompanied by steamed rice, allowing diners to sample multiple dishes in one sitting. From the classic Beef and Broccoli to the tantalizing Kung Pao Chicken, each rice combo offers a delightful array of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Whether you opt for a comforting noodle soup or a satisfying rice combo, House of Joy’s offerings are sure to leave you feeling nourished and content, with each bite a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Chinese cuisine.
Appetizers and Soups
At House of Joy, the appetizer and soup selections are a delightful prelude to the main event, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the flavors and traditions of Chinese cuisine. The restaurant takes pride in presenting a diverse range of starters that showcase the rich culinary heritage of various regions.
For those seeking a quintessential Chinese appetizer experience, the Crispy Spring Rolls are a must-try. These delicate rolls are expertly crafted, with a crispy exterior that gives way to a savory filling of finely chopped vegetables and meat. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it an ideal starter to whet the appetite.
Another classic appetizer that graces the menu is the Steamed Pork Dumplings, also known as Shumai. These delicate morsels are meticulously prepared, with a tender pork filling encased in a delicate wrapper. Steamed to perfection, they are served with a tangy dipping sauce that perfectly complements the savory filling.
Soup lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice at House of Joy, with a variety of traditional and innovative options to choose from. The Hot and Sour Soup, a beloved classic, strikes the perfect balance between tangy and spicy, with a rich broth infused with the flavors of vinegar, soy sauce, and a hint of chili. This soup is a true testament to the complexity and depth of Chinese flavors.
For those seeking a heartier option, the Wonton Soup is a comforting choice. Tender wontons, filled with a savory pork and vegetable mixture, float in a flavorful broth, making for a satisfying and nourishing meal in itself. The soup is often garnished with fresh scallions and a drizzle of sesame oil, adding an extra layer of aroma and flavor.
Vegetarians and health-conscious diners will delight in the Vegetable Tofu Soup, a light yet flavorful option. This soup features a delicate broth infused with the essence of various vegetables, complemented by soft and silky tofu cubes. It’s a refreshing and nourishing choice that showcases the versatility of Chinese cuisine.
Beef and Pork Entrees
House of Joy’s menu boasts an impressive array of beef and pork entrees, showcasing the restaurant’s mastery of traditional Chinese cooking techniques and flavors. From sizzling beef dishes to succulent pork preparations, each offering is a testament to the culinary expertise of the chefs.
The beef entrees are a true delight for meat lovers. The Beef with Broccoli is a classic dish that features tender slices of beef sautéed with fresh broccoli florets in a savory brown sauce. For those seeking a burst of flavors, the Kung Pao Beef is a must-try. This dish combines diced beef, peanuts, and an array of vegetables in a tangy and slightly spicy sauce, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Pork enthusiasts will be equally impressed by the variety on offer. The Twice Cooked Pork, a Sichuan specialty, showcases thinly sliced pork belly that is first boiled and then stir-fried with vegetables and a flavorful sauce. The result is a dish with a delightful contrast of crispy and tender textures. Another standout is the Sweet and Sour Pork, featuring crispy battered pork chunks coated in a tangy and slightly sweet sauce, accompanied by bell peppers and pineapple chunks.
For those seeking a unique culinary experience, the Salted Fish and Chicken Fried Rice is a must-try. This dish combines the savory flavors of salted fish with tender pieces of chicken and fluffy fried rice, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Seafood and Vegetarian Options
For those seeking fresh seafood or vegetarian-friendly options, House of Joy’s menu shines with a diverse array of choices. The seafood selection showcases the restaurant’s commitment to using the highest quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
One standout dish is the Sautéed Prawns with Garlic Sauce, featuring succulent shrimp sautéed to perfection and coated in a savory garlic sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. The Steamed Sea Bass with Black Bean Sauce is another must-try, highlighting the delicate flavors of the fresh fish complemented by the rich and aromatic black bean sauce.
Vegetarians will delight in the extensive meat-free options available. The Buddhist Delight, a medley of fresh vegetables stir-fried with a flavorful vegetarian sauce, is a crowd-pleaser. The Sautéed String Beans with Garlic Sauce offer a simple yet delightful vegetable dish bursting with robust flavors.
For those seeking a heartier vegetarian option, the Vegetable Fried Rice or the Vegetable Lo Mein provide satisfying and flavorful alternatives to their meat-based counterparts. House of Joy’s chefs expertly balance textures and flavors, ensuring that every vegetarian dish is a delightful experience.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or a dedicated vegetarian, House of Joy’s menu caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, ensuring that every guest can savor the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine.
Chef’s Specialties
At House of Joy, the culinary team takes great pride in crafting innovative and unique dishes that showcase their expertise and creativity. The Chef’s Specialties section of the menu features a curated selection of signature creations that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
One of the standout dishes is the Crispy Whole Fish, a showstopper that arrives at your table with a stunning presentation. The fish is expertly fried to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior while retaining a tender and flaky interior. Garnished with an array of aromatic herbs and served with a zesty house-made sauce, this dish is a true feast for the senses.
Another must-try item is the Peking Duck, a classic Chinese delicacy that requires meticulous preparation and skilled execution. The duck is slowly roasted until the skin becomes a deep, golden brown and delightfully crispy. Served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet and savory hoisin sauce, this dish is a beloved favorite that showcases the chef’s mastery of traditional techniques.
For those seeking a burst of flavors, the Sizzling Beef with Black Pepper Sauce is an absolute delight. Tender slices of beef are wok-tossed with a medley of vibrant vegetables and coated in a rich, peppery sauce that packs a punch of heat and depth. The sizzling presentation adds to the theatrical experience, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser.
Vegetarians need not feel left out, as the Chef’s Specialties menu also features a delectable Vegetable Delight. This colorful and flavorful dish combines a variety of fresh, seasonal vegetables expertly prepared and dressed in a fragrant garlic sauce. It’s a testament to the chef’s ability to elevate humble ingredients into a sublime culinary experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of Chinese cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore new flavors, the Chef’s Specialties at House of Joy are sure to leave a lasting impression. With each bite, you’ll appreciate the skill, creativity, and passion that goes into crafting these exceptional dishes.
Desserts and Beverages
At House of Joy, the menu extends beyond savory delights to include a tempting array of traditional Chinese desserts and beverages. These sweet treats and refreshing drinks are the perfect way to complement your meal or indulge your cravings.
The dessert selection showcases the rich culinary heritage of China, with options like the classic Egg Tarts. These flaky pastry shells are filled with a velvety egg custard that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory. Another must-try is the Sesame Seed Balls, featuring a crispy exterior and a chewy interior made from glutinous rice flour and coated in sesame seeds.
For those with a penchant for warm desserts, the Deep-Fried Sesame Balls with Lotus Seed Paste are a true delight. These golden orbs are filled with a sweet and fragrant lotus seed paste, offering a unique flavor profile that’s both nutty and indulgent.
House of Joy also offers a variety of traditional Chinese beverages to accompany your meal or dessert. The Chrysanthemum Tea, made from dried chrysanthemum flowers, is a refreshing and subtly sweet option that’s believed to have cooling properties. For a warm and comforting drink, try the Pu-erh Tea, a fermented tea with a rich, earthy flavor that’s perfect for sipping after a hearty meal.
Whether you’re seeking a sweet finale to your dining experience or a refreshing beverage to accompany your meal, House of Joy’s dessert and beverage offerings are sure to delight your taste buds and provide an authentic taste of Chinese culinary traditions.
Conclusion
House of Joy’s extensive menu showcases the rich diversity of authentic Chinese cuisine, from mouthwatering dim sum to hearty noodle soups and chef’s specialties. With its convenient location in the heart of New York City and delivery options through Postmates, Uber Eats, and DoorDash, enjoying the flavors of this renowned restaurant has never been easier.
Whether you’re seeking a traditional dining experience or the convenience of enjoying their dishes from the comfort of your home, House of Joy promises to delight your taste buds with every bite. Indulge in the flavors of expertly crafted dishes, savor the aroma of freshly prepared delicacies, and immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of China.
Visit House of Joy at 28 Pell Street to embark on a gastronomic journey through the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine, or simply order online and let their delectable offerings come to you. Discover why House of Joy has become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts and locals alike, and experience the essence of authentic Chinese dining in New York City.