0 Followers
Sun Maxim's
Master Critic Review
Sun Maxim's
7.9
Cantonese cafe with a broad menu that includes a focused dim sum section plus clay-pot rice and noodles. A comfortable sit-down option when you want dim sum with a full meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked BBQ pork buns, Pan-fried chive dumplings, Xiang gu mushroom siu mai
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Sit-down Cantonese with a reliable dim sum subset on Irving.
Who should go: Groups mixing dim sum and mains
When to visit: Weeknights after 7:30pm for easier seating
What to order: Baked char siu bao; chive dumplings; siu mai
Insider tip: Pair dim sum with a clay-pot rice to round out dinner.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—Irving Street and adjacent residential blocks fill up quickly after 6pm. Metered spots reopen after 7pm and can turn over around dessert time.
Dress code: Casual; neat jeans and a sweater or collared shirt fit the relaxed Cantonese dining vibe.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly at most tables except during peak weekend rush.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during prime 6–8pm window.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian dumplings, rice rolls, and clay-pot tofu dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited—can piece together 2–3 options like vegetable dumplings and sautéed greens.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—soy sauce used in most dishes; request modifications but cross-contact likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both dim sum fans—the lighting is bright and the atmosphere leans practical rather than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common. Arrive before 6:30pm or after 8pm for the shortest waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely—high chairs available, quick service, and plenty of mild dishes suited for kids.
Best For
Better for: Ideal when you want both dim sum and full Cantonese entrees in one meal without driving to Chinatown.
Skip if: You’re chasing delicate high-end dim sum artistry—head to Palette Tea House or Dragon Beaux instead.