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Dim Sum King
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Dim Sum King
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Counter-service dim sum shop on Mission Street turning out staples at budget prices. Ideal for grab-and-go trays or a quick snack run.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pan-fried turnip cake, Chiu Chow fun gor, BBQ pork buns
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Affordable, fast dim sum with classic selections all day.
Who should go: Grab-and-go dim sum fans
When to visit: Mornings 9–11am for freshest batches
What to order: Turnip cake, fun gor, BBQ pork buns
Insider tip: Bring cash—small bills speed up the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission Street is metered during business hours but generally available within a block or two; no private lot.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; most guests stop by in everyday wear or work attire.
Noise level: Low to moderate—conversations are easy, with some background chatter from takeout orders.
Weekend wait: Minimal wait; counter service moves quickly even during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait—food is ready within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian dumplings, spring rolls, and vegetable buns are available daily.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items like vegetable rice rolls or steamed greens may suit vegan diets.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free menu; most items use wheat-based wrappers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s a casual, grab-and-go counter setup without much ambiance for lingering.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations are taken or needed; small dine-in tables turn over quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple dishes, quick service, and affordable pricing make it family-friendly, though space is limited for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Fast, inexpensive dim sum with reliable classics served all day—great for takeout or solo meals.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full dim sum tea service or upscale banquet experience; try a larger sit-down restaurant instead.
Dim Sum King
8.0
Counter-service dim sum that starts early, ideal for grab-and-go breakfast steamer staples. Consistent batches and low prices keep Excelsior regulars coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Siu Mai, Har Gow, Rice Noodle Rolls (Shrimp/Beef)
Scores:
Value: 9.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Early-opening dim sum window perfect for breakfast takeout.
Who should go: Dim sum breakfast hunters
When to visit: 7–9am for freshest steamers
What to order: Siu mai, shrimp cheung fun, baked BBQ pork bun
Insider tip: Order rice rolls last so they’re hot when you leave.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Mission Street and nearby residential side streets; usually open early mornings but fills by 9am.
Dress code: Casual—locals drop by in hoodies, workwear, or morning gym clothes.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic and short dine-ins, easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: N/A - closes by mid-afternoon.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; expect quick turnover and immediate service before 11am.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some veggie buns, chive dumplings, and taro pastries available.
Vegan options: Very limited—most items use egg or lard; a few sweet buns are dairy-free.
Gluten-free options: No—majority of dishes use wheat wrappers or soy sauce; not suitable for gluten-free diets.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it's a fast-paced counter spot meant for takeout or quick solo breakfasts rather than sit-down dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations accepted or needed. A few dine-in tables are usually open early morning; limited seating later.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families often stop in for quick bites, though there’s no high-chair setup or kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Faster and cheaper than larger dim sum halls; great for early risers and solo takeout breakfasts.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down dim sum brunch or variety of specialty teas—try a full-service Chinatown spot instead.