Seemor
Yi Ji Shi MoA-Worth Trying
88 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10013
· Chinese noodle restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (554 reviews)
Takeout
Silky, made-to-order Cantonese rice rolls that taste exceptional, at budget prices, with long waits and minimal seating; best to call ahead and plan to take away.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Yi Ji Shi Mo earns its A- grade through exceptional food quality—silky, made-to-order cheung fun that inspires genuine devotion—and strong customer loyalty reflecting its status as a Chinatown institution. Remarkable value under $5 per roll and destination appeal for rice roll purists elevate its standing, though tight quarters and minimal seating plus extended waits prevent grade A territory. This is textbook neighborhood excellence—masterful execution within its focused scope.
Restaurant Summary
A true Chinatown hole-in-the-wall where the cheung fun come out silky and steaming, this counter-only spot inspires devotion despite the line. One diner gushed that the rolls were so smooth they would slip through chopsticks. Expect tight quarters and a takeaway rhythm. The cooking is classic Cantonese rice rolls done right—thin sheets, fresh fillings, and sauces that make each bite shine. The culinary approach leans traditional and focused: no frills, just careful technique. It is perfect for food crawlers and purists who value texture mastery over variety. For families, prices are a dream and flavors are gentle. Kids who like noodles will crush shrimp, egg, or plain rolls with sweet soy, though there is no kids menu and almost no seating. If comfort means a table and quick service, plan ahead or consider another stop.
At a Glance
- Silky, made-to-order rice rolls praised as best-in-city by many
- Exceptional value with most items under $3
- Long waits (20–60 minutes) common due to single steamer
- Cash only with very limited seating
- Phone order helps; explore nearby while waiting
What Sets It Apart
- house_ground_rice_flour
- made_to_order_cheung_fun
- ultra_budget_pricing
What People Love
- Silky, ultra-thin rice sheets fresh off the steamer
- Balanced fillings in the signature combo
- House sauces that elevate each bite
- Ridiculously low prices for handmade food
- Watching the rolls made in front of you
Points of Concern
- Waits of 25–60 minutes are common; single steamer bottleneck
- Cash only; plan ATM stop beforehand
- Minimal seating and crowded space; mostly takeaway
- Occasional order mix-ups and perceived call-ahead prioritization
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter Only
Average Cost$6-$10 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Two rice rolls plus soy milk totals about $6–$7; great light meal
- Try shrimp or roast pork rolls ($2.50–$3.00) with sweet or peanut sauce
- Congee options around $2.25–$2.55 if you want a warm add-on
Perfect For
- A Chinatown food crawl between bakeries and dim sum
- Quick, budget-friendly solo bite
- Fans of traditional Cantonese cheung fun
- Early-morning snack before errands
Location Insights
Area: Busy Chinatown block with dense foot traffic, bargain eats, and small mom-and-pop shops; popular with locals and food-focused visitors.
Safety: Generally safe with heavy daytime foot traffic; typical urban bustle and tight sidewalks.
Nearby: Near multiple Chinatown bakeries, markets, and noodle shops; easy to walk between stops while waiting.
NolitaNolita offers a chic and intimate dining atmosphere with a strong emphasis on independent restaurants, cafes, and bars. The neighborhood is known for its fashionable crowd and a blend of upscale and casual eateries, often frequented by food enthusiasts and creative types.
Little ItalyLittle Italy is a historic enclave within Nolita, famous for its Italian-American restaurants, festive street events, and a warm, community-oriented dining vibe that attracts both visitors and longtime residents.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday07:00–16:00
Wednesday07:00–16:00
Thursday07:00–16:00
Friday07:00–16:00
Saturday07:00–16:00
Sunday07:00–16:00
Available: Takeout
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