There’s fierce competition when it comes to Chinese dumplings on the lower east side. Eldridge Street might as well be the dumpling capital of America, and New Yorkers can get downright catty when defending their favorite. A quick search on Yelp will reveal some spirited comments and conversations that go into great detail about why one steamed or fried goodie is better than another. I’ve tried a handful of places on Eldridge and surrounding streets of the Fujian section of Chinatown, and while I have my clear cut favorite (so far), I can see the need for a dumpling showdown, which would most likely have to include Flushing and Sunset Park. If you’ve never been “wowed” by a dumpling, there’s a good chance you’ve never had a real deal version. Shu Jiao Fu Zhou at 118 Eldridge Street has a little over 10 items on their menu, and none of them exceed $3. Not to worry, you don’t need an elaborate menu, you’re here for the pork and chive steamed dumplings, wrapped by hand in a tissue-paper thin dough, served with a side of steaming clear broth. 11 dumplings + broth for $3. For value, it ranks right up there with the $5.95 East 6th Street Indian lunch specials. Oh, and FYI, I walked out with a sack of 50 frozen dumplings for $9! I’ll do a comparison of the best dumpling spots in the city on a future blog.
Shu Jiao Fu Zhou, 118 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002
