If you’re wandering through Chinatown on a hunt for a breakfast that’s both dirt cheap and incredibly satisfying, you have to look for the Cheong Fun Cart at 159 Hester St. Parked right on the corner of Hester and Elizabeth (usually right outside Hong Kong Supermarket), it’s a simple silver box on wheels that’s been a neighborhood staple for years. For those of us living or working in the 10013 zip code, this cart is the ultimate "if you know, you know" spot for authentic Cantonese street food.
The main draw here is the steamed rice noodle rolls (cheong fun). These aren't the thick, gummy ones you sometimes get at takeout spots; they are light, silky, and made fresh right in front of you. You can choose from classic fillings like dried shrimp, roast pork, or beef, but the real local move is getting the Chinese sausage and egg combo. They douse the rolls in a sweet, savory soy sauce and a little bit of chili oil if you want a kick. It’s the kind of meal that costs less than a fancy latte but keeps you full until lunch.
What really distinguishes this cart from a sit-down dim sum spot is the speed and the price. Orders start as low as $1.50 to $2.00, and even the most "loaded" rolls rarely break the $6 mark. There’s almost always a line, but don’t let that scare you off—the two ladies running the cart are absolute machines and keep things moving fast. It’s a cash-only, no-frills operation, so make sure you have a few singles ready before you reach the front of the line.
The vibe is pure old-school Chinatown. There’s no seating, so you’ll see people scarfing down their noodles right on the sidewalk or walking two blocks over to Sara D. Roosevelt Park to eat on a bench. It’s busy, it’s loud, and it’s completely unpretentious. They usually stay open until they sell out of everything, which can happen pretty early on busy weekend mornings. If you want the best selection, your best bet is to get there before the mid-morning rush.
Business Hours:
Monday & Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Tuesday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: 7:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Pro Tip: It’s cash only! If you’re coming on a weekend, try to get there before 10:00 AM to make sure they haven't run out of the most popular fillings like the roast pork.
