A young woman with tied back hair and large turquoise earrings walks down a busy city street, wearing a casual jacket over a red top, as she heads to her dance performance.

"I moved to New York from China just over five years ago, chasing the dream to dance on some of the biggest stages in the world. It's been a rollercoaster, you know? Some days I'm up before dawn, rehearsing for hours, and other days, I'm performing late into the night. The city never sleeps, and neither does my schedule. It's challenging but exhilarating. Living here, you learn to adapt quickly, swapping dumplings and hot pot for bagels and pizza—it's a mishmash of flavors, just like life here. My diet swings from strictly green juices and salads to indulging in the best cheesecake you can find downtown. On good days, when the music just flows through you, it feels like everything's clicking. But there are tough days too, doubts and injuries, or when I miss home fiercely. But then I'll find a little spot in Chinatown that smells just like back home, and it's like a warm hug. Speaking of food, have you ever tried xiao long bao? It's this soup dumpling that explodes with flavor with every bite—absolute comfort in a little parcel. Here in New York, I've met people from all walks of life. Like Ella, a lighting tech with stories that could fill books, reminding me that everyone's got their struggles and triumphs. We all share more common ground than we think, especially over food. If there’s one thing that gets me through, it’s finding those moments of connection, whether it’s sharing a meal or a smile on the subway. And hey, if you're ever in the area, you've got to try the lamb kebab from this tiny vendor on 53rd; it's not home, but it's close enough to make you believe it could be."

Recipes to Try

A white plate with eight homemade Chinese pork dumplings, each boasting a savory filling, is placed next to a small bowl of soy sauce on a white table. Shadows cast on the table.

Homemade Chinese Pork Dumplings with Savory Filling

Traditional Chinese dumplings filled with a savory mixture of pork and vegetables, perfect for steaming or frying.

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A bamboo steamer basket with nine delicious Xiaolongbao, emitting steam, alongside a small dish of soy sauce and mustard on the side.

Delicious Xiao Long Bao Recipe

Delicious Chinese soup dumplings filled with savory pork and broth, bursting with flavor in every bite.

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A tray of twelve New York-style bagels with different toppings, including plain, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, and everything seasoning, arranged in three rows of four.

Homemade New York-Style Bagels

Classic New York-style bagels, chewy and delicious, perfect for breakfast with your favorite spread.

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A classic Margherita pizza topped with fresh basil, sliced tomatoes, and mozzarella balls on a white plate. Olive oil, extra mozzarella, a fork, and a napkin are on the table.

Classic Margherita Pizza Recipe

Classic Neapolitan pizza with a crispy crust, topped with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves.

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A traditional Chinese hot pot with broth in the center is surrounded by plates of sliced meat, seafood, vegetables, noodles, tofu, and dipping sauces on a white surface—perfect for recreating this home recipe.

Chinese Hot Pot Home Recipe

This traditional Chinese hot pot is a communal meal where a variety of ingredients like vegetables, meats, and tofu are cooked in a simmering broth right at the table.

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A creamy, light yellow New York Cheesecake with a graham cracker crust sits on a white plate. A fork and a small plate with a gold-handled spoon are nearby on the pristine white surface.

Classic New York Cheesecake Recipe

This classic New York-style cheesecake is rich, creamy, and indulgent, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth filling that melts in your mouth.

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