Lunar New Year 2026 begins on February 17, welcoming the Year of the Horse. While the holiday’s roots are in Asia, some of the best festive foods can now be found far beyond it.

Across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, Lunar New Year menus are expanding every year. Whether you are part of the Asian diaspora or simply curious, here are the must-try dishes for 2026 — and where you’re most likely to find them.

Read more: Year of the Horse 2026: Fashion and Lucky Color Trends to Watch

1. Dumplings (Jiaozi) – A Symbol of Wealth

Chinese dumplings are eaten during the New Year because they symbolize wealth, family unity, and a prosperous new beginning
Chinese dumplings are eaten during the New Year because they symbolize wealth, family unity, and a prosperous new beginning

Dumplings are a Lunar New Year staple, especially in Chinese households. Their shape resembles ancient gold ingots, symbolizing prosperity.

In Western cities:

  • Look for handmade dumplings in Chinatown districts.

  • Many restaurants offer special New Year dumpling platters.

  • Frozen premium dumpling brands also release festive packaging.

For first-timers, pork and chive is classic, but vegetarian and seafood versions are widely available.

2. Banh Chung and Banh Tet – Vietnamese Tet Classics

Banh Chung and Banh Tet – Vietnamese Tet Classics
Banh Chung and Banh Tet – Vietnamese Tet Classics

For Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), sticky rice cakes filled with pork and mung bean are central.

  • Banh Chung is square, symbolizing earth.

  • Banh Tet is cylindrical, more common in southern Vietnam.

In the US (especially California and Texas), Canada (Toronto), and Australia (Sydney and Melbourne), Vietnamese bakeries often take pre-orders weeks in advance.

If you see long lines outside a Vietnamese grocery before February 17, that’s usually why.

3. Nian Gao – Sweet Rice Cake for Growth

Chinese New Year cake- Niao Gao
Chinese New Year cake- Niao Gao

Nian gao means “higher year,” symbolizing progress and success. It’s slightly chewy and mildly sweet.

In the UK and Canada, specialty Asian supermarkets carry both traditional brown sugar versions and modern variations like coconut or taro.

Some Western bakeries now experiment with fusion versions, such as nian gao pastries or desserts layered with custard.

4. Tteokguk – Korean Rice Cake Soup

Tteokguk is Korean Rice Cake Soup that is a must for Koreans on New Year’s Day
Tteokguk is Korean Rice Cake Soup that is a must for Koreans on New Year’s Day

In Korean communities, Lunar New Year (Seollal) is marked by a comforting bowl of tteokguk. Thinly sliced rice cakes float in clear broth with egg and beef.

The tradition says eating this soup symbolically adds a year to your age.

In cities like London, Vancouver, and Sydney, Korean restaurants often feature Seollal specials around Lunar New Year week.

Read more: Lunar New Year 2026 Gift Trends in the US, Canada, UK, and Australia

5. Whole Fish – Abundance for the Year Ahead

A whole steamed fish represents surplus and abundance. The word for fish in Mandarin sounds similar to “surplus.”

Many families cook this at home, but Chinese banquet restaurants in Western cities offer celebratory fish dishes during Lunar New Year.

Tip: It’s traditionally served whole, head and tail intact, symbolizing completeness.

6. Modern Trend: Plant-Based Lunar New Year

In 2026, more restaurants are offering plant-based Lunar New Year menus. Expect:

  • Mushroom dumplings

  • Vegan sticky rice

  • Plant-based “roast” dishes

  • Dairy-free festive desserts

This trend reflects growing health awareness and sustainability values among younger generations.

Where to Find Authentic Lunar New Year Food in Western Cities

  • United States: San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles

  • Canada: Vancouver, Toronto

  • United Kingdom: London’s Chinatown

  • Australia: Sydney, Melbourne

Chinatown neighborhoods remain the heart of celebrations, but suburban Asian supermarkets and food halls are increasingly important hubs.

Quick Hosting Tip for 2026

If you’re invited to a Lunar New Year dinner:

  • Bring fruit (especially oranges or mandarins)

  • Bring sweets or tea

  • Avoid overly somber packaging colors

Food gifts are always appreciated because they symbolize sharing and abundance.

FAQs

What food is eaten during Lunar New Year 2026?

Dumplings, sticky rice cakes, fish, rice cake soup, and festive sweets are common.

Is Lunar New Year food the same everywhere?

No. Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean traditions differ, though some symbols overlap.

Can non-Asian families try Lunar New Year foods?

Absolutely. Food is one of the easiest and most respectful ways to participate.

Lunar New Year 2026 is not just about zodiac animals and red envelopes. It’s about gathering around a table.

And in cities across the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia, that table is more accessible than ever.