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ZipPicks Awards
Best Dim Sum in Brentwood
Master Critic Review
Chin Chin Brentwood
7.9
A Brentwood fixture since 1983 built on wok-fired, made-to-order cooking that pulls from multiple Chinese regional traditions—the Chinese chicken salad and Mongolian BBQ beef have become default orders for a reason. It runs as a large-format, shareable-plates operation where families and groups cycle through the same reliable lineup without overthinking. Expect a dining room that gets loud on weekend nights, with an outdoor option that smooths it out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chinese Chicken Salad, Mongolian Style BBQ Beef, Orange Chicken
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: LA icon since 1983, every dish cooked fresh to order from recipes spanning provinces across China
Who should go: Families and groups seeking reliable, shareable Chinese classics
When to visit: Weekday lunch for faster seating and full menu access
What to order: Start with the Shrimp Toast or Chili Crisp Wontons, the Chinese Chicken Salad is essential, split a Mongolian Beef or Orange Chicken for the table
Insider tip: The Chocolate Fortune Cookies are a house specialty worth saving room for
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Public lot adjacent to the restaurant; street parking on San Vicente also available but can fill up during dinner rush
Dress code: Casual—jeans, sneakers, and athleisure all common in this Brentwood crowd
Noise level: Moderate to loud depending on the night—described as cozy and enjoyable on quieter evenings but noisy when the dining room fills up on weekends
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several dedicated vegetarian items marked on the menu: Eggplant & Tofu, Wok-Seared Bok Choy, Szechuan Green Beans, Bok Choy & Black Mushrooms, and Fragrant Vegetables
Vegan options: Eggplant & Tofu is offered as a vegan preparation; Fragrant Vegetables also marked vegetarian and may work vegan—confirm sauce ingredients with your server
Gluten-free options: Menu marks items as 'gluten-conscious' (G) including Chicken Lettuce Cups, Cashew Chicken, Garlic Ginger Broccoli, and Fragrant Vegetables
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It can work for a casual first date, but it's not a classic romantic spot. The recently remodeled space has warm, contemporary ambiance and scores well for atmosphere, but it leans more lively-casual than intimate. Noise levels can pick up on busy evenings, so aim for a weeknight or early dinner if conversation is the priority. The outdoor patio with firepit offers a more relaxed, date-friendly setting than the main dining room.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and early weeknight dinners are generally fine for walk-ins. Weekend evenings get busy and waits are common, so book at least a few days ahead for Friday or Saturday dinner. Reservations are available online or by phone at (310) 826-2525. If you do walk in during peak hours, expect a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - this is a strong family pick. The menu includes kid-specific dishes like Kids Beef & Broccoli and Kids Orange Chicken, and the casual, energetic atmosphere means kids won't feel out of place. Shareable plates like potstickers and dumplings work well for picky eaters. The noise level is forgiving enough that families don't need to worry about disrupting other diners. Open daily from 11am, so early dinners are easy to time.
Is it good for groups? Yes - the menu is designed around sharing, which makes it a natural fit for groups. The restaurant accommodates larger parties and has hosted birthday celebrations and special occasions. Dim sum platters, noodle dishes, and family-style entrees keep ordering easy for big tables. For groups of 6 or more, book a few days in advance, especially on weekends. Call the restaurant directly for larger party arrangements.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - the Brentwood location has a recently updated outdoor patio with a firepit. The patio is dog-friendly and is a highlight of this location, particularly during warmer months. It adds a relaxed, open-air dimension to what is otherwise a second-floor restaurant. Outdoor tables can fill up quickly on nice evenings, so mention your preference when booking.
Best For
Better for: Casual group dinners and family meals—shareable plates, comfortable booths, and a relaxed atmosphere make it easy for larger parties
Consider Alternatives If: You want a quiet, intimate dinner—the dining room can get loud on busy nights and the vibe is more social than romantic
Hours
Monday11am - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 9pm
Thursday11am - 9pm
Friday11am - 9pm
Saturday11am - 9pm
Sunday11am - 9pm