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Dim Sum Bistro
Master Critic Review
Dim Sum Bistro
7.9
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Comfort Food Classics
Counter-service Chinatown spot turning out fresh, affordable baskets from morning through early afternoon. Expect quick lines, efficient service, and dependable shrimp dumplings, baked pork buns, and turnip cake.
Must-Try Dishes:
Har Gow (shrimp dumplings), Baked BBQ Pork Buns, Pan-Fried Turnip Cake
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Fresh, budget-friendly dim sum with fast counter service.
Who should go: Budget-minded dim sum seekers
When to visit: 8–10 am for shortest lines and hottest trays
What to order: Har gow, baked pork buns, turnip cake
Insider tip: Order to-go if seating is tight—items travel well separately.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking on Washington and Stockton; garage available a block away at Portsmouth Square for hourly rates.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; locals stop in post-errand or morning walk.
Noise level: Moderate during peak hours with steady chatter; quiet mid-morning.
Weekend wait: Closed by late afternoon; no dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Usually a short 5–10 minute line at peak, otherwise walk right up.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—turnip cake, vegetable dumplings, and rice noodle rolls available.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable dumplings qualify but check fillings.
Gluten-free options: Minimal options; most dumplings use wheat wrappers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more a quick, counter-style stop than a sit-down setting. Great for casual shared bites but not ambience-driven.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations accepted, but counter seating turns fast. Solo diners or pairs find seats easily before noon.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick family stops; simple menu and fast service help, but limited seating means strollers are tough inside.
Best For
Better for: Speed, price, and freshness—ideal for quick Chinatown dim sum on a budget.
Skip if: You’re seeking full-service dining, cocktails, or polished ambience—try China Live or Osmanthus instead.