30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Sawtelle Japantown
Best Dim Sum in Sawtelle Japantown
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Dim Sum House
7.8
A made-to-order Cantonese dim sum operation in a Westwood strip mall that draws Westside regulars with its shumai, har gow, and BBQ pork buns at prices well below what you'd pay in the SGV. The format is no-frills counter ordering with quick turnaround—come for the dumplings and the check total, not the ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork and Shrimp Shumai, Shrimp Dumplings, BBQ Pork Buns
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Affordable, made-to-order Cantonese dim sum in a Westwood strip mall, widely considered the best dim sum on the Westside.
Who should go: Budget-minded dim sum fans on the Westside
When to visit: Open daily 9am–9pm; go early for freshest batches
What to order: Start with shumai and shrimp dumplings, add BBQ pork buns for variety, then round out with soup dumplings — portions are small and priced to mix and match
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Dedicated vegetarian section includes vegetable buns, vegetable steamed dumplings (5 pcs), vegetable egg rolls (4 pcs), scallion pancakes, and sesame balls with red bean—all $5.99. Also vegetable fried rice ($11.99) and vegetable chow mein ($10.99).
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — this is a casual, no-frills strip-mall storefront with about 10 tables and traditional dim sum carts rolling through the room. The atmosphere is lively and communal rather than intimate, and the tight space doesn't lend itself to quiet conversation. Great for a fun, low-pressure hangout with someone you already know, but not the move for a romantic first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Most of the time, yes. The restaurant is small with roughly 10 tables, but the casual format and quick turnover mean walk-ins are common on weekdays. Weekend mornings and lunch can get busy — if you're going with a group on a Saturday or Sunday, call ahead at (310) 441-9651 to avoid a wait. They do accept reservations.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual, bustling atmosphere means kids won't be out of place, and the dim sum cart service is genuinely entertaining for little ones who like to point and choose. Prices are low ($4.99–$6.99 per dish) so adventurous picks that don't land aren't a big deal. There's no dedicated kids menu, but dumplings, BBQ buns, and noodle dishes are easy crowd-pleasers for most ages. High chairs not confirmed — call ahead if needed.
Is it good for groups? Yes — dim sum is built for group dining, and the shareable format works perfectly for parties. The space is small though, with only about 10 tables total, so groups of 6+ should call ahead to make sure they can be accommodated. Don't expect a private room — this is a cozy neighborhood spot, not a banquet hall. Best approach: reserve a day or two ahead for weekend groups.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — outdoor seating is available. Specific details about coverage, heating, or capacity are not confirmed online. Given the strip-mall location on Westwood Blvd, expect a modest patio setup rather than a dedicated outdoor dining area. Call ahead if outdoor seating is important to your visit.
Best For
Better for: Budget dim sum with a group—most dishes under $10, no-frills strip-mall setting that prioritizes affordability over atmosphere.
Consider Alternatives If: You want refined dim sum execution or polished ambiance—this is cheap and functional, not a destination experience.
Hours
Monday9:30am - 9pm
Tuesday9:30am - 9pm
Wednesday9:30am - 9pm
Thursday9:30am - 9pm
Friday9:30am - 9pm
Saturday10am - 9pm
Sunday10am - 9pm