Alimama Tea brought Japanese mochi donuts to New York City in 2018 — the first shop to do so. Located in Chinatown on Bayard Street, specializing in mochi donuts, cream puffs, and cold-brewed teas.
See the Menu Order OnlineAlimama Tea opened in 2018 in the heart of Chinatown and made history as the first shop in New York City to offer Japanese mochi donuts. The concept started as a small experiment and quickly became one of the most-visited dessert destinations in Lower Manhattan.
The mochi donut is fundamentally different from a traditional American donut — it's made with glutinous rice flour (mochiko), giving it a uniquely chewy, satisfying texture. Alimama's flavors rotate seasonally and most offerings are gluten-free by default.
Located at 89A Bayard Street in Chinatown — a short walk from the Canal St subway station. Online ordering available through the Alimama website.
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"The cereal donut is unlike anything I've tasted — the mochi texture is addictive and the crunch on top is perfect. I walked past a hundred donut shops to get here and it was absolutely worth it."
"The boba cream puffs are genius. They're light and delicate but the boba inside gives it this satisfying chewiness. Perfect Chinatown afternoon snack with the cold-brewed tea."
"Came during the weekend and there was a wait — totally worth it. The sesame donut is my favorite. Also great that most flavors are gluten-free. An NYC essential stop."