For those unfamiliar with the term, dim sum is basically a Chinese version of brunch, served in the traditional family style. Dim sum is all about variety and quantity, when ordering dim sum, you'll see a table filled with tons of small dishes of different foods. If you YouTube dim sum, you know what I mean.
Dim sum is probably one of my all time favorite things to do. Not only do you get to nom on some delicious food, its a great bonding opportunity. I know when my mom and I fight, normally things muddle over after some dim sum. Since I've been in Shenzhen, I go on average about once a week, sometimes twice if the boss is taking the team out to lunch.
Some people ask me how good my Chinese is, this is how I reply, semi-native Shanghai-er, learning Mandarin, dim sum Cantonese. I'm that comfortable with dim sum dish, now that I can read Chinese I'm that much more comfortable. I take a very aggressive role when ordering dim sum when I'm with friends and family. I know what I like and I will get it.
Here is a list of go to's, so if you ever are getting dim sum these are nooby-proof guarantee loves.
Ha Gaw/Shrimp Steam Dumpling: Probably the most popular item in dim sum, its light and delicious. You can judge whether the dim sum place is good by having the ha gaw, its a must have for an dim sum restaurant.
Shew Mai/Shrimp Pork Steam Dumpling: Similar to the ha gaw, but a much more meatier dumpling, and probably the second most order dish. Sometimes there is some type of roe on top making it more luxurious but with or without still delicious choice.
Cha Shew Bao/Steamed BBQ Pork Bun: Something very familiar to non-Chinese food eaters. Its like wonderbread filled with delicious, succulent BBQ meat. I don't always order it cause I can always just order the meat straight up, but if you're drunk then is the perfect drunk food.
There are many, many more but talking about this makes me hungry so I'll leave it at that.
My weekly dim sum dates with my girlfriend is always the highlight of my week. I have a new favorite. It has a whole wall showcasing all the live, fresh seafood. Ranging from Alaska King crab to geoduck (gooey duck).
Its very traditional with taste and menu, which I love. I wouldn't say I'm a purist, but this place is amazing. I can't wait to go back this weekend for more. I'll order something new and maybe post something about it if I take a picture before I eat it all.
-MC
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