Five Must-Visit Restaurants for Chinese New Year (Long Island Edition)

Happy Chinese (Lunar) New Year! I recently spoke with Andrea Chen, Senior Vice President of Iaquinta Real Estate, who shared some fascinating facts about this ancient tradition and the Year of the Fire Horse. She explained that this rare zodiac sign is known for courage, independence, and forward momentum - perfect for embracing new beginnings and pursuing your goals this year.

Andrea also shared that the Lunar New Year, or Spring Festival, is celebrated over 15 days across China, Korea, Vietnam, and around the world. Families gather for festive meals, adorn their homes with vibrant decorations, and enjoy symbolic foods believed to bring luck and prosperity for the year ahead.

Here on Long Island, Andrea highlighted five must-visit Chinese restaurants to celebrate the start of the Year of the Fire Horse. She said that these local gems offer authentic cuisine, festive dim sum, and the warm, inviting atmosphere that makes this holiday so special. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or simply treating yourself, her recommendations are sure to make your Lunar New Year celebrations truly unforgettable!

3342 Jerusalem Avenue, Wantagh, NY 11793

Phone: (516) 221-0480

A Wantagh favorite since 1962, Kwong Ming is one of Long Island’s oldest Chinese restaurants and a local go-to for decades. They’re dishing out all the classic favorites - spare ribs, wonton soup, and perfectly crispy egg rolls. Beyond the food, owner Barry Lee makes every visit feel like a warm welcome. And if you love traditions, you won’t want to miss their famous Chinese New Year celebration - a festive, fun, and delicious way to ring in the new year! 

 

623 Hicksville Road, Bethpage, NY 11714

Phone: (516) 822-1010

Since opening in 2002, The Orient has been an iconic spot in Bethpage for authentic Cantonese cuisine and traditional dim sum. Weekends are the place to be, especially late mornings and early afternoons, when tables are filled with a delicious variety of dumplings, steamed buns, noodles, and other dim sum favorites. This family-run gem, led by owner and manager Tommy Tan, offers an inviting atmosphere that makes every meal feel special. Whether you’re craving classic dim sum, hearty Cantonese dishes, or just a cozy spot for a weekend brunch with family and friends, The Orient delivers every time. 

 

3601 Hempstead Turnpike, Levittown, NY 11756

Phone: (516) 579-4700

A beloved Levittown institution since 1993, Fortune Wheel has long been a popular place for authentic Cantonese and Hong Kong–style cuisine. Known for its high-quality dishes and generous portions, it delivers bold, comforting flavors that keep diners coming back year after year. Standout menu items include the salt & pepper pork chops, lobster pan-fried noodles, and beef chow fun. Andrea's pro tip: stop by on the weekend for their beloved dim sum—it’s worth planning around!

600 W Old Country Road, Hicksville, NY 11801

Phone: (516) 622-6666

Tucked away in Hicksville, O Mandarin is a true hidden gem for authentic Mandarin Chinese cuisine with roots in Beijing and Hunan. Led by chef-owner Eric Gao - a two-time Best Chef: New York State semifinalist from the James Beard Foundation - this spot delivers must-try dishes like braised pork belly, Peking duck, and crispy whole fish. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply planning a great night out, O Mandarin offers an elegant yet welcoming dining experience that's worth seeking out - and revisiting.

 

111 Jericho Turnpike, Jericho, NY 11753

Phone: (516) 333-5588

DD Soup Dumplings & Hibachi is quickly becoming a Long Island favorite after opening in March 2024 as owner David Dong’s very first restaurant on the island. This stylish, modern destination blends authentic Cantonese and Sichuan Chinese cuisine with fresh ingredients and streamlined electronic ordering. It’s best known for its famous freshly made Xiao Long Bao—delicate pork and crab soup dumplings you can watch being handcrafted at the window counter upon arrival. The menu also features bold Sichuan standouts like hot chili oil beef and Dan Dan noodles. On the other side of the restaurant, guests can enjoy table-side Japanese hibachi, making it an ideal spot for group dinners and celebratory nights out. One restaurant, multiple experiences - and a must-visit new favorite.

 

As you enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends at one of these iconic Long Island restaurants, the team at Iaquinta Real Estate wishes you a very successful Chinese (Lunar) New Year and Year of the Fire Horse!