Nom Wah, a beloved dim sum tea parlor that has been a staple in Manhattan’s Chinatown since 1920, is set to open its doors in Las Vegas this September at the JW Marriott in Summerlin.
This historic eatery, which began at a notorious intersection once referred to as the “Bloody Angle,” has a rich history tied to the vibrant and sometimes tumultuous past of Chinatown.
Originally famous for its mooncakes, Nom Wah transitioned to focus on dim sum in the 1950s under the leadership of Wally Tang, who took over from the restaurant’s founder, his father.
As the culinary landscape evolved and trade policies shifted in the 1980s, U.S.-based bakeries faced competition from overseas mooncake producers.
In an effort to adapt and thrive, Wally Tang transformed the bakery into a tea parlor, introducing dim sum and solidifying its legacy as a prominent dining destination in the area.
Since taking the helm in 2010, Wilson Tang has further modernized the restaurant by eliminating traditional dim sum carts in favor of made-to-order dishes while merging handmade and machine-made products.
This innovative approach has not only refined the kitchen’s efficiency but has also opened the door for the growth of related ventures, including the establishment of Cha Cha Tang and Sal Tang’s and the manufacturing of frozen dumplings for retail.
The Las Vegas location promises to serve a menu replete with popular dishes from its New York counterpart, featuring favorites such as xiao long bao, pork dumplings, crystal shrimp shumai, and various noodle dishes.
In addition to these classic offerings, patrons can expect an extensive selection of tea as well as cocktails and other alcoholic beverages to complement their meals.
The design of the Nom Wah stall in Las Vegas will pay homage to its New York roots, incorporating vintage wood accents, mosaic flooring, and iconic red barstools reminiscent of the original parlor.
Wilson Tang’s decision to expand to the West Coast was multifaceted, driven by a desire to reach a broader audience and an affinity for the cultural parallels between Las Vegas and New York.
He expressed appreciation for the opportunity to collaborate with a major hotel brand like Marriott to establish this new location, stating, “As attractive as the Strip sounds, I’m just not that guy anymore.”
Reaching a centennial is a remarkable achievement for any restaurant, particularly in New York, where countless establishments come and go in a flash.
Wilson Tang attributes Nom Wah’s enduring presence to a combination of fortunate timing and an iconic location on a bustling New York street.
However, it is the eatery’s commitment to serving quality dim sum, steaming cups of tea, and preserving the authentic flavors of early Chinese American cuisine that have truly sustained its legacy.
As Nom Wah celebrates 100 years in business, it embarks on an exciting new chapter by introducing its rich culinary heritage to the dessert of Las Vegas.
image source from：vegas
