美麗華 Chinatown, New York City · Since 1968

Handmade
Hong Kong
Bakery

Legendary char siu buns baked golden every morning. Dim sum crafted fresh daily. A Chinatown institution beloved by generations of New Yorkers — and visitors from around the world.

🥐 Char Siu Buns 🍵 Hong Kong Milk Tea 🥟 Dim Sum 🍜 Wonton Noodles 📍 41 Mott St, NYC




Our Story

A Chinatown Landmark for Over 55 Years

Founded in 1968 by Taishanese immigrants Mr. and Mrs. Chan, Mei Lai Wah began as a humble neighborhood bakery on Bayard Street. Mr. Chan learned his craft at Gum Moon Bakery after arriving in the US, and with a Taishanese friend, opened this beloved shop using those same handmade techniques.

For decades, it was a local gathering spot for dim sum, fresh buns, and strong coffee. In 2008 it was renamed Mei Lai Wah Bakery. In recent years, the bakery expanded to a larger, modern home at 41 Mott Street — preserving every tradition while serving even more guests.

Handmade Daily — Every bun, dumpling, and dim sum item is crafted fresh each morning using authentic Cantonese techniques.

TikTok Viral & Critically Acclaimed — Lines regularly stretch out the door, especially for the iconic pineapple pork bun.

Kiosk Ordering — Order at a self-serve kiosk outside (card) or pay cash inside. Cash discount available.

1968
Year Founded
55+
Years Serving NYC
4.5★
Yelp Rating
$
Price Range








Hours & Location

Plan Your Visit

We're open every day of the week. Arrive early — popular items like the pineapple pork bun often sell out.

Monday 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Tuesday 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Wednesday 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Thursday 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Saturday 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Sunday 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Contact & Info

Find Us

Kiosk ordering outside (card) · Cash inside · Cash discount · Arrive before noon to avoid long waits · No seating available

Guest Reviews

What People Are Saying

Real reviews from Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google visitors.

4.5
★★★★½
2,537+ Yelp reviews
★★★★★

"The pineapple pork bun is worth it. My partner and I went back three times to get it again. Come on a weekday before 3 PM when they're less busy. Made fresh. Quick ordering at the kiosk. YUM. I miss it already."

Wanderlog Visitor · Verified Guest
★★★★★

"This place is iconic and a must-go when visiting Chinatown. Buns were under $2.50 each. Prices are reasonable and I don't think there's a place around with high quality ingredients at such a low price."

TripAdvisor Guest · Verified Review
★★★★★

"Even getting there around 11 AM there was already a line out the door. The pineapple pork bun and steamed bun were both fantastic. Self-serve kiosk ordering made it quick and easy."

Food Blog Visitor · NYC Chinatown
★★★★☆

"The pineapple crust was perfectly crispy and sweet, and they didn't skimp on the pork inside. It was flavorful and filling. It absolutely lived up to the hype."

Yelp Reviewer · New York, NY
Find Us

41 Mott Street, Chinatown NYC

Located in the heart of Manhattan's Chinatown. Nearest subway: J/Z Canal St, 6 Spring St, N/Q/R/W/J/Z Canal St.