Mall Food Courts. The words might conjure up images of fast-food chains and predictable fare. But scratch beneath the surface, especially in diverse urban areas, and you’ll uncover hidden gems of authentic cuisine. Forget the usual burger and fries – we’re talking about culinary destinations offering a world of flavors, often at prices that are incredibly wallet-friendly.
Recently, a serendipitous key delivery led me to Queens, New York, and more importantly, to the New World Mall in Flushing. Having heard whispers from fellow food enthusiasts about its legendary food court, touted as a haven for authentic Taiwanese and Chinese food rivaling anything outside of Asia, I knew I had to investigate. Leaving behind the familiar food scene of D.C., I braved a chilly New York afternoon, lured by the promise of genuine Asian flavors.
Stepping into the New World Mall food court is like entering another world. Escalators descend to a bustling underground space, a stark contrast to the typical mall experience. This isn’t your average food court – it’s a vibrant hub teeming with locals of all ages, from trendy teenagers to families, all united by a love for good food. The air buzzes with chatter and the happy slurping of noodles. As someone venturing in from outside the community, the sheer variety and energy can be a little overwhelming, in the best possible way. Choosing where to start feels like a delicious dilemma, especially when you’re faced with rows of stalls offering dishes you might not be entirely familiar with.
Navigating this culinary labyrinth as a solo diner presents its own challenges. Portion sizes are generous, often designed for sharing, and the sheer number of tempting options makes you wish for a food-savvy companion to help you explore. Hot pot for one? While tempting, it felt like a communal experience best enjoyed with company. The prices, however, are astonishingly low, making it easy to sample widely without breaking the bank. The real challenge is choosing wisely and pacing yourself in this treasure trove of affordable and authentic eats.
My first stop, after circling the enticing stalls, was Lan Zhou Handmade Noodles. The mesmerizing sight of a chef skillfully working a lump of dough, transforming it into noodles with almost gravity-defying movements, was irresistible. Specializing in noodle soups with a vast array of protein choices – from the familiar beef and pork to more adventurous options like oxtail, eel, and even “tube bone” – Lan Zhou is a must-visit for noodle lovers. I opted for the classic Beef Pulled Noodle, and at just $5.50, the portion was enormous, easily enough for two. The hand-pulled noodles were the star – perfectly textured, springy yet slightly chewy, and beautifully absorbing the flavorful broth. The beef was tender and flavorful, complemented by fresh spring onions and crisp bok choy. This steaming bowl of noodle soup was the perfect antidote to the winter chill and a fantastic introduction to the food court’s culinary prowess.
Moving on to Yun Nan Guo Quo Rice Noodle, I decided to explore some more unconventional snacks. Their offerings of chicken parts – heads, necks, and feet – were intriguing. Being a fan of chicken feet, I selected a few feet and a halved head. Chicken feet, when well-prepared, are a textural delight, offering gelatinous skin, tendons, and flavorful fat. These were cooked in a spicy soy-based sauce that cut through the richness perfectly. While the feet were enjoyable, the chicken head proved less rewarding, with minimal edible meat and sharp bone fragments. The tiny brain, however, was a unique, creamy morsel.
For a taste of Taiwanese street food, Tea Twitter is a standout. Their Salt and Pepper Chicken, crispy and juicy, is a must-try. Beyond the chicken, they offer a variety of fried sweet vegetables, including pumpkin cakes and Panko-coated eggplant, but the Crispy Purple Potato Roll truly stole the show. This unique creation features a nest of thin, crispy strands encasing a creamy, vibrant purple potato puree. The contrast in textures and the subtle sweetness make it a delightful dessert-like snack. I paired it with their Emperor’s Plum tea, which, while not to my personal taste due to its strong sour and briny notes, is likely a popular acquired taste for those who enjoy more complex tea flavors.
To round off the culinary adventure, I visited New Flushing Bakery, located near the mall entrance. Specializing in Cantonese-style egg tarts, a familiar treat from my time in Hong Kong, the bakery offers a wide range of custard flavors. I opted for the classic Hong Kong Style Egg Tart. The custard was silky smooth and eggy, encased in flaky pastry – a comforting and familiar flavor. I also tried the Purple Sweet Potato Egg Custard, recommended by the staff. This tart was less successful for me, with a slightly lumpy texture and a block of purple potato at the bottom that didn’t quite harmonize with the custard. While the Hong Kong tart was a hit, the purple sweet potato version lacked the same cohesive flavor profile.
Before leaving, I explored Jmart, the sprawling Asian supermarket located within the New World Mall. Spanning over 30,000 square feet, Jmart is a sensory overload of products from across Asia. From live seafood to exotic fruits like durian, the market offers a glimpse into the diverse ingredients that underpin the food court’s authentic flavors. Free samples of various products, from salted duck egg to spring rolls, added to the experience. The seafood section, with its jellyfish skin, geoducks, and green shrimp, was particularly fascinating.
Overall, my trip to the New World Mall food court was an incredibly rewarding culinary adventure. While perhaps best enjoyed with company to fully embrace the social atmosphere and sharing opportunities, the food itself is undeniably exceptional and diverse. Whether you crave spicy Sichuan hot pot, delicate Cantonese dim sum, or flavorful Taiwanese street snacks, this mall food court delivers authentic tastes for every palate. The best strategy, I discovered, is to observe what the locals are eating, identify the most appealing dishes, and embark on your own flavorful exploration. So, the next time you think of a mall food court, remember places like New World Mall – they are more than just a pit stop for shoppers; they are vibrant cultural and culinary hubs waiting to be discovered.
