Zhu’s Skewers opened on June 10 at 49 Mott Street in Manhattan’s Chinatown, staying open until 2 a.m. four nights a week. The shop aims to serve increasing summer crowds returning to the area.

Zhu’s Skewers is the newest addition to Chinatown’s late-night offerings. The shop specializes in charcoal-grilled lamb, beef, and vegetable skewers, served from a takeout counter near the corner of Bayard Street. Owners Li Zhu and Mei Chen say they chose the location because summer weekends have brought increased pedestrian traffic following pandemic lows.

The menu at Zhu’s Skewers focuses on Xinjiang-style street food, with lamb, beef, and chicken skewers priced at $2.50 to $3 each. Vegetarian options such as mushrooms and tofu are also available. The kitchen is open from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday through Sunday, and from 5 p.m. to midnight Monday through Wednesday.

Chinatown businesses have reported an uptick in customers since May, according to the Chinatown Partnership. Several late-night eateries in the neighborhood have closed over the past two years, with Zhu’s Skewers aiming to fill that gap. The owners cite recent demand for street food and longer opening hours as key factors in their decision to open the business.

Local restaurateurs say they hope Zhu’s Skewers will attract both visitors and neighborhood residents. The owners plan to expand hours if business remains steady through August.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zhu’s Skewers and when did it open?

Zhu’s Skewers is a late-night, counter-service spot serving charcoal-grilled skewers at 49 Mott Street in Chinatown. It opened on June 10, 2024. The menu features a variety of meats and vegetables, with a focus on Xinjiang-style street food flavors.

What are the operating hours and menu highlights?

Zhu’s Skewers operates from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday through Sunday, and 5 p.m. to midnight the rest of the week. The menu includes lamb, beef, chicken, mushrooms, and tofu skewers. Prices start at $2.50 per skewer.

Why did Zhu’s Skewers choose Chinatown and a late-night schedule?

The owners selected Chinatown due to increased summer crowds and a lack of late-night food options after several closures. They aim to serve both locals and visitors seeking street food after traditional restaurants close. Plans for expanded hours depend on summer business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zhu’s Skewers and when did it open?

Zhu’s Skewers is a late-night counter-service spot serving charcoal-grilled skewers at 49 Mott Street in Chinatown. It opened on June 10, 2024.

What are the hours of operation for Zhu’s Skewers?

Zhu’s Skewers is open from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday through Sunday, and from 5 p.m. to midnight Monday through Wednesday.

What kind of food does Zhu’s Skewers serve?

The menu focuses on Xinjiang-style street food, offering lamb, beef, chicken, mushrooms, and tofu skewers.

How much do skewers cost at Zhu’s Skewers?

Skewers are priced between $2.50 and $3 each.

Why did Zhu’s Skewers choose to open in Chinatown with late-night hours?

The owners chose Chinatown due to increased summer crowds and a lack of late-night food options after several closures, aiming to serve both locals and visitors.

Editorial Transparency. A first draft of this story was produced with AI-assisted writing tools, then reviewed for accuracy and tone by the named editor before publication. More on our process: Editorial Policy.