Meat Trio Platter (duck, pork, chicken)

When I was a child, going to the local Chinese restaurant every Sunday was an event. In fact, it was often our only evening outing of the week, and that made it feel special. There were round tables lined with white dining cloths, a large, hypnotic fish tank, and beautiful, hand-carved murals of Chinese battles and bathing scenes. It was a staple of suburban life – you might even know a place like this yourself.

As a NYC veteran of 10 years now, I’ve adjusted to the authentic, small storefronts of Chinatown and the quick-service, late-night delivery that technology enables across the boroughs. The ability to access truly authentic meals or those on a whim is something unique to large cities like ours, but it does leave one important piece missing: The family gathering place.

So, I was delighted to find a Chinese eatery above Canal street that evokes what I remember as the holy trinity of Chinese eating: Great service, great food, and an inviting place to gather.

Nestled in Manhattan’s Upper East side, China Fun has been a staple in the neighborhood since 1991 under the constant direction of Dorothea and Felix Wu, along with the restaurant’s Executive Chef Mr. Wing Fong Chen – And Chen does not disappoint.

Known as The Place for real Soup Dumplings outside of Chinatown (pork or pork/crab – $7.75 or $8.75), China Fun also offers conventional favorites across Cantonese and Szechuan regions such as their delicious Meat Trio Platter (duck, pork, chicken – $20.95) and a Shrimp and Scallops in Garlic sauce ($20.50) that features exceptionally plump, jumbo shrimp. All plates offer plenty to share with 2-3 others.

For the adults at the head of the table, we highly recommend the cocktail list – try the Spicy Mango Mojito ($8.50) or a freshly prepared Margarita ($8) to spice up your dishes.

Enjoy the friendly service, enjoy the meal prepared with care, but ultimately – enjoy sharing these fortunes together!

China Fun
1221 Second Ave
64th St., NYC

Open Daily: 11:30am to 11:00pm
(212) 752-0810