Ray’s Café & Teahouse

This place is legit, authentic Taiwanese mom and pop restaurant. Super friendly and personable service. Grace and her family really brought Asian-​style home cookin to Philly Chinatown. They always look overworked and I guess I would too with customers waiting patiently for good food.
Must try is the General Tso and the beef noodle soup. It’s not like any other noodle soup anywhere in the eastern states. I think Grace added some crazy good Asian spices — and I will not bother to ask — but it is quite delicious. The iced milk boba tea is also legit Taiwanese style and sooo refreshing.

This is a hidden gem. You could pass by this place and never know how great it is in there. Trust me you want to be in there.
I cannot speak for the food for our visit– other than I saw what other people ordered and it looked good. We were just there for the coffee. It is so good. If you are a coffee nerd you need to go. Get the syphon brewed coffee. It’s pricey– but worth it. I love the look of the syphon brewers and they are cool to watch. Our coffee was served in adorable cups with a cookie. I had a shot of espresso after my syphon and even the espresso shot came out with it’s own cookie. The syphon process makes a lighter, smooth cup of coffee. It’s a must have.
The staff is super nice too!!!
Worth the trip.

What s wonderful lunch experience. The food is delicious. The people are so kind. The coffee is outstanding. Seating is limited. I only wish the portions were larger for the price. Worth eating here!

Ray’s Café is a (not-​so) hidden treasure of Philly’s Chinatown. It’s located away from the more popular haunts on 10^th street, but it’s a great little establishment where you can grab a quick meal (they specialize in Taiwanese cuisine) or ruminate life over specialty teas or coffee.
My friend and I visited Ray’s Café on a rainy Saturday afternoon. They had just opened for the day, so the shop was pretty empty but we were greeted by the friendly staff and were quickly seated. Ray’s doesn’t have much in terms of décor, but what you’re really there for is the food and drinks! On with it.
We started off with an order of Pork & Napa dumplings as well as our drinks. Now, reading some other Unilocal reviews, I knew I had to try the «Syphon”-brewed coffee. It’s pretty pricey (a cup runs $ 5-​$ 10 depending on the coffee), but I thought I would splurge a bit since my trip to Philly was a vacation-​of-​sorts.
Now, the Syphon-​brewed coffee is only available for the specialty coffees that Ray’s has featured, which are sourced from around the world. I opted for the Japanese charcoal-​roasted coffee. Now, the fun part — watching it brew from behind the counter in this contraption straight out of a mad scientist’s library. It’s pretty neat to watch the water bubble and the coffee infuse, and the end product was a smooth, silky cup of coffee. The Japanese roast was mild and not very acidic. It paired great with just a touch of cream and sugar. The coffee is also served with a little cookie!
Now, the food. The aforementioned dumplings came in an order of eight, and they were juicy, hot, and delicious. I enjoyed the texture of the dumpling skin, which was a bit thicker than I’m used to, and the flavors of the filling. For my entrée, I opted for the Taiwanese beef noodle soup, which was perfect for the brisk, gloomy day. There were plentiful noodles, beef, and veggies all submersed in a rich, flavorful broth. It was a very cost-​friendly meal that left me plenty stuffed.
Overall, Ray’s colored me impressed and I definitely want to come back next time I’m in Philly. They have plenty more coffee options and Taiwanese food options left to try!
Some Final Tips:
— It’s a small shop, so larger groups probably aren’t the best, but tables can comfortably accommodate four people.
— Brunch items are served on Saturdays!
— Closed on Sundays!

Saw a short video about this on PBS in my room at the Hyatt Bellevue. Worth the easy trek to Chinatown to have this siphon style coffee.
Really good!

I’m a sucker for aesthetics.
While the interior isn’t designed like a lot of «cafés» (i.e. plants, mason jars), the food is the real beauty here. The food is vibrant in color and their offerings are strategically placed on corresponding dishware.
We ordered the General Tso chicken and the dumpling sampler. The GT lunch special came with a side, so we ordered the seaweed salad.
It wasn’t the slimy, radiant green seaweed salad that I was used to. It looked like the seaweed you get stuck between your toes at the beach. It was different, but not bad.
The GT chicken and the dumpling sampler were great though. The breading on the GT was tasty and hearty, but didn’t overpower the amount of chicken. You know what I’m talking about — when you’re eating a piece of chicken, only to find out that it’s 90% breading and the tiniest piece of chicken. Yeah — not here! The chicken was plump and juicy.
Also, do yourself a favor and get the dumpling sampler.
I got the iced cappuccino and it was topped with whipped cream and pirouettes — super cute and refreshing! Hands down better than any frappuccino at Starbucks.

Food with a homemade quality to it and cool siphon drip coffee under a low-​key no frills, homey atmosphere.
A friend and I split the dumpling sampler upon Unilocalers’ reccommendations, and the general tso chicken. We enjoyed how the dumplings had a thick chewy skin, and the chicken as well had a thicker crunchy breading than what you may see at a takeout joint. Tasty stuff.
The deep fried curry dumplings were probably my least favorite – didn’t seem as fresh as it could be. My favorite was probably the leek dumpling.
Seaweed salad wasn’t what I was expecting, and would probably pass on that here next time.
Got the charcoal roasted coffee. Love the cute presentation as seen here on Unilocal: mini spoon, cream, and a butter cookie on a doily.
The coffee is indeed with very low acidity, which I thoroughly enjoyed. No cream or sugar needed. No bad aftertaste.
Reflecting back, the chicken entrée was smaller than what one may expect, but we had no complaints, and the quality makes up for it to those who may.

Small yet cozy place to sip on coffee/​tea as well as have some food. I believe a mother and son work here together. I would say it gives the place an interesting vibe and in my opinion stands out from other similar places. I’ve been here a few times and always try something different. I haven’t been let down yet but haven’t tried any food.
The mother and son are very nice and treat their guests more like friends. The coffee usually comes with a cookie which is always a great compliment to a hot beverage. They take credit cards here, so it makes things easier if you don’t have cash on you. The place has room for I would say around 15 people max and the bathroom is ok.
I would recommend this place for sure and it’s worth the trip. The parking can be a hassle so be prepared or utilize public transportation. I would say try to coffee first and then work your way through the menu.

I’ve gone to Ray’s for quite a while now and I enjoy it. Grace is a very sweet lady and has my order memorized and ready after I walk in. The prices are a bit higher than other coffee shops but I gladly pay it because of the level of service I receive. They have a large variety of coffees and teas and even have siphon set-​ups for coffee that make excellent cups of coffee. They have a full menu with Chinese food as well during lunch and dinner. They have a $ 5 minimum on credit cards but they actually allow me to keep a tab going since I don’t always meet that with my regular cup of coffee. They sell full bags of coffee including their own house blend in addition to several other varieties and you can have it ground or whole bean. There is usually several people in there every time I stop by. Overall, the coffee is good and the service is great.

I’ve never paid attention to Ray’s Café until recently, simply because it’s such a small place that sits quietly on a quite street. I went for a light late lunch with my friend who recommended this place. To my surprise, Ray’s coffee turned out to be awesome! You can taste the roast coffee bean in every sip of your coffee. Their food is pretty good. Not ashamed, I ordered General Tso’s Chicken. :p I know it’s deep fried and covered with 2 tons of sugar. I was just craving it. And it was good! Somehow their GT is not as greasy and overly sweet. Loved it! Definitely going back!

I’ve been craving Ray’s food since the first time i came here. 6 months later, i’m back and i can officially say that i love this place. Their dumpling sampler is sooo good and the house stir fried wide noodles are a must. The workers here are so friendly and the overall ambience is very relaxed. I like to come here when it’s not crowded because the place is fairly small. If you come to chinatown, i highly recommend this place.

A lot of people dig this place. Maybe I’m missing something. I thought the latte was strictly mediocre. Since sugar was offered for it perhaps that was a clue that it wasn’t that good? Eh. I don’t know. Just not quite sold.

Coffee review only
4.5 stars
I saw Ray’s Café on the top 10 coffee spots in philly. I actually been here for food and tea years ago and it was a really great experience then (yes, i remember). I wasn’t a big coffee fan back then, but now, i’m on a mission to try the best of the best in philly.
The first day i went, it was rainy and a hot cup of coffee was called for. Never being here, i didn’t know what to expect or how to proceed. The multiple menus (outside windows and inside right whenyou walk in) was a bit overwhelming. I felt a bit awkward starting a conversation with the owner about coffee… My traditional Asian side came out, you order stuff and don’t ask questions, particularly when speaking to older asians.
I was under the impression they served exclusively siphon’d coffee. So i asked for a coffee, black. I wondered, «where’s the magic that Bill M. wrote about???» It was basically their house brew. The coffee itself was actually pretty good. A lot of flavors and smooth finish. That was already positive despite not being what i intended.
The next day, i came back and was on a mission to read the menu and order the correct coffee. I found the area on the menu that said siphon’d coffee. The first 5 – 8 coffees were out of my budget for the day, so i opted for the $ 5 house blend. Then the MAGIC began! The preparation and execution of brewing coffee this method is definitely pretty cool seeing. Its almost like a novelty but a necessary science to achieve a different type of brewed coffee. THe description of the house blend did say it would have hazelnut flavors. but i didn’t realize how strong it would be. I’m not really into flavored coffee. The finished product was a nice cup of coffee, but not my preference. I may try another flavor out when i return. Compared to their regular house brew, i prefer that.
I do strongly suggest coffee lovers to try the siphon coffee out at least once! It is a pretty cool experience.

I went to Rays with a small group who wanted to do something different. We all had drinks (coffee, bubble tea) and a dumpling sampler and sesame noodles. The food was quite good but the real reason to come is the coffee. Many different kinds are on offer and the descriptions are pretty helpful in choosing. The coffee machine (instrument?) is very cool and the owners were nice enough to explain the physics to us. The owner and waiter were incredibly nice and made the experience even better. The coffee is expensive (5 – 10 $) but it was exceptionally good. The floral notes came through beautifully and it was delicious. It’s a little pricey for every day coffee but it’s a terrific destination coffee shop. Loved the coffee and the people. The food was good too but not the main reason to go I think although we sampled only two things.

I can’t speak for the food at Ray’s Café, but I can at least say that the siphon coffee here is the best in Philadelphia — and this is coming from someone who has been to a number of coffee shops in almost every neighborhood in the city. Ray’s Café has a homey, Mom-​and-​Pop feel and there is no coffee-​house elitism to be found here.
As can probably be seen in some of the photos on this page, the glass instrument that owner uses to make the siphon coffee looks like something out of a Medieval apothecary’s cabinet, but don’t be alarmed, it brews the best coffee in the city, hands down — the sort of coffee that you dream about when you’re having a coffee craving. It’s very rich and, well, just go to Ray’s Café and try a cup. You won’t be disappointed.
Cheers.

This is down right the best coffee… unequaled…they have been around before the coffee boom… and Grace was ahead of it… you can drive by and miss it… the best coffee anywhere…

So i’m new to the area since my new position in my career. I looked up frantically where to get a good espresso. I was told that Ray’s is the place to go. my second day in the area and I go to Ray’s to try their espresso and sadly i’m not a fan. I’ve had a lot better and since I’ve found another place that’s named after somewhat after a country. hint it’s «Columbia»
My co-​worker seems to love Ray’s coffee, I remember when I went to Ray’s I saw an extensive coffee list and saw a coffee for $ 10 and the cheapest $ 5, well the house blend is $ 3. I said what the… really? Anyway, on my way into work I found a spot near Ray’s and thought I’d like to try this coffee I keep reaping reading about. I walk in and take a look, I want try a $ 5 coffee, figure whats the big deal. I ask for the Colombian. The nice owner reaches up to the marked container and put fresh beans in the grinder. Next the water in the syphon what looks to be scientific, I guess after all if you want great coffee it’s all about science.
I watched in amazement how this works. I was asked cream and sugar, sure I said but not to sweet, I want to taste the coffee. to my first sip, I was shocked at how great coffee can be. the flavors popped and my taste buds were alive. Dunkin who? wawa what? starbucks, really? This place has gotten me wanting to try all the beans offered. It’s that pronounced of flavor and taste.
Ray’s may not be good for espresso (to my liking) but the coffee, WOW ! i’ll be back. I also hear that the food is good as well. i’ll have to try that soon too. Enjoy your coffee and don’t be scared to pay the money, it’ll be well worth it, I’m glad I did and now I know what good coffee is.

Got the green milk tea smoothie made by the guy who works here. Wow super jasminey but super good actually. It’s different and refreshing. I just happened to park across from here. Lucky me. Haha wish I had time to try the coffee everyone raves about but oh well happy with the tea

Work right across street, so have been coming here off and on for years. Definitely pricey but also very tasty fresh food. Coffee is delish and smoothies are to die for…

The best independently owned stand alone coffee shop in Philadelphia. They are masters of their craft and lack all of the pretentiousness that sometimes comes with independent coffee shops in the city. The unassuming outside and the disarray of the interior (there are boxes and supplies on chairs and tables) shows that 100% of their work goes into their food and coffee; they don’t strive to be flashy or hip.
The food and coffee speaks for itself, and it is delicious. If you have never visited this place, definitely add it to the top of your philly restaurant list.

They’re drip iced coffee is best ever. Like O face level good! Haven’t a place in the world that matches the deep roast flavor. Now can I get an of this?

A great little coffee shop! The owner Grace is very friendly and welcoming. If you have any questions or are interested in the brewing process she’s very helpful.
They have siphon coffee and iced coffee that goes through a 12 hour process. They also provide food. A great little place for a small bite and some coffee. The drinks are more expensive but definitely worth it! And I love their presentations. The drinks come out on a little tray with a doily. Depending on the drink they could come with a tiny cream pitcher, syrup, or a butter cookie. The Japanese Charcoal Roasted Coffee is a great choice. If you’re not a fan of coffee they also have great bubble tea smoothies.
They have some great Taiwanese dishes. Their cold sesame noodles have a thicker peanut sauce.
The only downside is their hours which can be unpredictable. I also wouldn’t recommend this place for large groups.

Found this place via Unilocal and was not disappointed.
I only wanted a snack so only had the dumpling sampler, it was a great choice. The flavors great! The pork and veg dumplings were my favorite.
Next time I gotta try out the full menu.
Great small place for 2 – 3 friends!

Very tasty place, but the hours make it difficult to find a time to go.
Great options for coffee and tea, and excellent lunch specials. Small environment and seems to be run by a family.

I usually come here to get a green milk tea smoothie with bubbles. That drink is always good.
The green tea is just perfect.
I also used to get green tea with bubbles once. It’s good but still the green milk tea smoothie is the best.
Yesterday I went to have lunch there for the first time. The dumpling samplers is the best! The house special fried noodle is very yummy as well!
My friend also got the ray’s recipe noodle soup one. The soup is perfect for the people who like the light soup. The beef is super soft.
Over all is yummier than I expected.

Coffee is essential after a big midday meal. So naturally, after finishing ours at M Kee, my friend and I headed here for a cup. Sampling a Siphon-​made one for the first time, I selected the Ethiopian bean for the brew. Sun-​dried, but darker than I would have liked (I prefer light roasts), it nonetheless was well-​prepared, and tasted slightly of berries. And of course aided with digestion!

Such a cute little coffee shop in China town. I got an iced latte which came with whip. My husband got the Ethiopian blend which he though was just ok. It’s very quaint inside.

A delightful little café with… wait for it: slowly dripped, siphon-​style coffee!
The owner Grace is very sweet and always remembers my co-​workers and I. The lunch special is very much worth the price, you can get a spring roll, with an entrée (noodles or soup), followed by coffee which is served with a little cup of creamer and a dipped cookie. This meal can save as drabby friday afternoon when you want a week to end and just want to treat yourself to some amazing coffee.

It was late night on a weekday and we needed to kill some time. After Unilocaling nearby cafes, we decided on Ray’s for some tea — didn’t want to mess with our chances of getting beauty sleep.
At first, we were underwhelmed. The décor was a little cluttered, the furniture rickety, and glancing over their menu, we realized they weren’t serving the kind of tea we were hoping for (cheaper and non-​caffeinated). But, being amiable adventurers, we made peace with trying out their coffee instead.
Despite having already consumed an unreasonable amount of caffeine earlier that day, COFFEE WAS WORTH IT. Ray’s and co take coffee seriously, like they import that special Japanese charcoal blend straight from Japan. We ordered three different blends under the siphon option, and all were great, but the charcoal blend really stood out. I had hearts in my eyes when the coffee came out on the colorful trays, with tiny spoons, baby pitchers of cream, and chocolate-​dipped butter cookies with sprinkles.
I can’t really speak on the rest of the menu, but I do know that if I’m ever in the area again and desiring a unique cuppa experience at the starting price of Starbucks, Ray’s’ll be worth the trip!