Chinatown in Boston, MA, is simultaneously exhilarating and overwhelming. In just a few blocks, you’ll find countless restaurants often marked in Chinese characters, murals, shops, and more. With so many options, we couldn’t just try one place, so we went on a self-guided Boston Chinatown Food Tour to try as many things as possible! Keep reading this expert guide on where to eat in Boston Chinatown, which includes everything from dim sum to milk teas to traditional takes on classic foods. The best way to experience the restaurants is through a private tour led by local guides! Although it is called Chinatown, other countries are represented, and culinary offerings stretch beyond Chinese-American cuisines. We did take the liberty to explore as many as we could. While in the city, check out all the other amazing restaurants and top things to do in Boston.
Best Foods to Try in Chinatown, Boston
Dim Sum
If you want to try the most foods in one place, dim sum is the perfect way to go! At China Pearl, you can try many different dishes with prices as low as $4.50. They come out with carts of dumplings and dishes of all kinds. You can try dumplings and buns, and it’s a great place to try things you’ve never heard of. We asked for a menu that listed all the items, and some of our favorites included eggplant with shrimp stuffing, steamed lotus cream bun, and a pan-fried turnip cake.
Clay Pot Rice
The name pretty much describes it well. At Clay Pot Café, a small shop with just a few tables, you can order different rice dishes served in a steaming clay pot and accompanied by a hot pot of tea. Served sizzling hot with crispy rice at the bottom, each clay pot is packed with flavorful toppings like Chinese sausage, ribs, salted fish, or mushroom and tofu. It’s a comforting, authentic experience that’s perfect for cooler days or anyone craving a hearty, home-style meal. The menu is simple but deeply satisfying—and definitely worth the visit.
Shojo
Shojo was the next stop on our walking tour of Chinatown, Boston, for some modern takes on classics. We went for Shojonator, a burger with a steamed bun, bacon, and kimchee. They also have other unique items like monkey chicken wings, C-Town Chicken N Waffles, Pork and kimchi dumplings, and more.
Tea Do
I love milk tea, but I was especially excited about their Taro Milk Tea, something I hadn’t seen before. They have a large list of their own specialties, like Fire Dragon, The Hulk, and Hello Kitty!
Royaltea
So much tea, not enough time! This is why it’s great to go with other people. After I ordered the Taro Milk Tea at Tea Do, we went over to Royal Tea, where my husband ordered a mango cheese blizzard. The mango sat at the bottom and was super sweet, while the cheese at the top (maybe cream cheese) was salty, for a unique balance that is definitely worth trying.
Corner Bakery
There are several bakeries throughout Chinatown, but we chose Corner Bakery because they had a variety of pastries. By this point, we were full, but we made sure to grab a couple to take home with us so we could eat them later and reflect on our time in Chinatown.
DoubleChin
Doublechin is another modern take on the classic sweet treats kind of place. They have an extensive menu, so it was hard to choose one thing, but we went with their colorful cube toast topped with matcha, strawberry, and chocolate ice cream and sprinkled with cereal, gummies, and fruit! Be ready for sugar overload!
Things to do in Chinatown, Boston, MA When Not Eating
When it comes to Boston Chinatown, most people think about Chinatown restaurants. Yet, besides food tasting, there are plenty of things to do in Chinatown, Boston. Plus, you can walk around a bit before trying more dishes.
Take a Picture in Front of the Chinatown Gate on Beach Street
Pause for a moment to admire the iconic gate on Beach St. It offers a picturesque photo opportunity and poignant symbol of the neighborhood’s rich history and vibrant character.
Check out the Murals
There are several murals throughout Boston’s Chinatown. Most of them are filled with vibrant colors, and some even tell stories of the neighborhood. Take a picture in front of them or see how many you can find.
Get a massage
If you’re looking to relax after constantly going, several great and affordable options exist. You can go to Rainbow Health Center for a foot reflexology or a deep tissue massage. Jian Min Massage Therapy is an excellent place for cupping.
Go Shopping
What better way to walk off all of the food than to stop in some of the different shops!
For beauty products, head to Rhyme of Korea, where you’ll find a large selection of high-quality Korean skincare products, sheet masks, and other items.
Clearly, I didn’t get enough food from the restaurants because I had to stop at A Goodmart, a grocery store selling items I haven’t seen in my own shop: sweet coffee drinks, milk tea, cookies, and more. Then we could stock up on food to eat later!
Insider Tips for the Best Chinatown Food Tour Experience
A little preparation can go a long way in making the most of your Chinatown Boston food tour. Here are some practical tips and suggestions.
Go with an Empty Stomach – You’ll want to try some of everything. Start early and pace yourself.
Walk, Don’t Drive – Parking can be tricky. Use public transit or ride-share to get to Chinatown and explore on foot.
Bring Cash – While many places now accept cards, some smaller shops and bakeries still prefer cash.
Schedule Your Visit – Weekends are lively (great for dim sum), but weekdays can be less crowded. Mid-morning to late afternoon is ideal for touring, while evenings are better for fusion restaurants and bars.
Don’t Skip the Small Spots – Some of the best eats are in hole-in-the-wall joints or food stalls. Follow the locals and trust your nose.
Book a Guided Tour (Optional) – If you’re short on time or want historical context, book a local food tour led by knowledgeable guides. Many companies offer food and culture tours of Chinatown, Boston, which are especially suitable for first-time visitors.
Boston Chinatown Food Tour: FAQs
Which company offers the best Boston Chinatown food tour?
Boston Chinatown Food Tours is the best company offering food tours in Boston’s Chinatown. They are a four-time TripAdvisor “Travelers’ Choice” award winner, known for their authentic, guided experiences led by knowledgeable locals. They offer a unique opportunity to discover this diverse neighborhood, covering all aspects of history, culture, and the diversity of cuisines. Aside from your culinary adventures, you’ll also learn about the challenges overcome by early Chinese immigrants and the local Chinatown community to shape this side of the city into what it is today.
Can I do a self-guided food tour in Boston’s Chinatown?
Yes, you can enjoy a self-guided food tour of Boston’s Chinatown. With dozens of restaurants, bakeries, and hidden gems within walking distance, it’s easy to explore at your own pace while sampling authentic Asian cuisine.
Boston Chinatown Food Tour: Final Thoughts
Nestled in the heart of downtown Boston, Chinatown is a culinary haven that showcases authentic dishes from across Asia, including China, Vietnam, Korea, Thailand, and Japan. The best part? You don’t need to book a standard tour (though you can if you want). Even my husband and I had planned it as a casual afternoon outing. Just the two of us wandering, exploring the culinary delights of this neighborhood that make it stand out from the rest of the city. What I loved most about our self-guided food tour was the freedom. There was no strict itinerary—just curiosity, hunger, and the joy of experiencing something new together. If you’re a seasoned foodie and thinking of doing your own Chinatown food tour, do it. Go with an open mind (and an empty stomach), and you’ll come away not just with a full belly, but with some special memories too.
Last Updated 1 week ago by Jessica Serna | Published: July 14, 2019
