Pinch Chinese brings a breath of fresh air to Soho’s dining scene, tucked away on Prince Street like a delicious secret waiting to be discovered. The modern space strikes a perfect balance between casual comfort and stylish sophistication – much like the food they serve. What sets this spot apart is their absolute dedication to the art of the perfect dumpling.

The soup dumplings here are nothing short of revelatory – delicate wrappers holding impossibly flavorful broth that bursts in your mouth in the most satisfying way. Watch through the open kitchen as skilled chefs fold each one by hand with the precision of jewelry makers. Beyond dumplings, their Taiwanese popcorn chicken delivers the perfect crunch-to-juiciness ratio, while the dan dan noodles hit that ideal balance of spicy, savory, and numbing that marks authentic Sichuan cuisine.

What makes Pinch truly special is how it manages to honor traditional Chinese techniques while feeling thoroughly contemporary. The atmosphere buzzes with energy but never feels chaotic, and the staff guides you through the menu with genuine enthusiasm rather than rehearsed pitches.

It’s the rare restaurant that works equally well for a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive date spot. In a city overflowing with Chinese restaurants, Pinch manages to feel both essential and exciting.