The Pandemic Newcomers to Chinatown Restaurant Scene
Photo: Karlin Chan
Opening a new business is always risky but opening in the middle of a pandemic takes “cojones.” And that’s exactly what three Chinatown entrepreneurs did.
Recall that the economic devastation in Chinatown already dates back one year. The onset of Covid-19 overseas caused sharp declines in revenue for most businesses already struggling to survive on thin profit margins. The bottom fell out when New York city went into lockdown in March 2020 when most were forced to shutter, leaving Chinatown riddled with empty storefronts. And with little relief in sight many others are teetering on the brink as the pandemic drags on.
Photo: Karlin Chan
However, there is light at the end of the tunnel, as new start-ups appear in the middle of a pandemic.
Hay Hay Roasted
81 Mott Street
Opened New Year’s Day, occupying a space vacated early last year but serving Chinese roasted BBQ meats along with noodles and rice-plate specials.
Sugartown
65 Bayard
Wide variety of old school traditional Chinese candies, dried fruits and modern favorites.
Fry All
69A Bayard st
The name says it all. Fried Chicken with dipping sauces and variety of gourmet fried potatoes.
Photo: Karlin Chan
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