Visiting Lei, and Chinatown
"It feels like a movie”, Billy said while we walked down Doyer’s Street to our friend Annie’s new wine bar, Lei. Dazed from a stressful couple weeks and some good greenery–I was in a Chinatown trance. It was late–the streets had emptied; but the energy still existed. It had this eerie feeling of sorts–storefront signs flickering, an older gentleman smoking outside a massage parlor, the rustling of rodents through garbage cans, and the dimly lit lantern above. Then we arrived at this little storefront on this pedestrian-only street & entered into a warm space filled with happy faces. The sense of familiarity yet excitement–Lei felt comfortable without giving up its novelty.
Annie, co-owner of King and Jupiter, has been talking about Lei for years; so it was amazing to see it all come together. It gives nods to a Parisian wine bar while feeling very at home in Chinatown. Wines line the walls –a treasure trove from back vintage burgundy to new discoveries from China & beyond. The list is amazing and there’s plenty to drink whether you’re grabbing a glass before your dinner at Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles or diving deep into the world of fine & rare. I would point out some killer bottles you should go drink; but I'll leave that up to the staff: a group of industry pros who have worked in some of the city’s best wine-focused bars & restaurants.
When talking with Annie about Lei–community is a word that comes up a lot. She opened a wine bar here because she identifies with the community and wants to bring it something that she thinks it would like. In all our conversations–it was important to embrace the community and be a place for the next generation of Chinatown residents. Part of this is recommending some of her favorite spots, so next time you pop into Lei–you have some options should you want to explore.
Mee Sum Cafe - poached chicken over rice with scallion and ginger sauce as well as the zoong - Chinese tamales that they make year round
Great NY Noodletown - roast duck and pork over rice!
House of Joy - favorite group dim sum spot
57 Bayard Meat Market - for roasted meats to take home
Artbean - for the best iced coffee
Teazzi- favorite bubble tea spot
Chinatown ice cream factory - I always get the banana ice cream
Want more Chinatown recs? Coming soon!