Dim Sum Garden - Philadelphia, PA

Located in Philadelphia’s Chinatown, you’ll find a black and white sign tucked away with the signature cute little dumpling face. A hidden gem for authentic dumplings, Dim Sum Garden.

My boyfriend decided to take me and my son here one afternoon, because I said I was craving soup dumplings. I had never been so I was excited. I love trying new spots, especially one’s that have history to them.

Back in 2003 head chef Shizhou Da came to the US with the original recipe for Xiao Long Bao - also known as Chinese steamed soup dumplings. She is the 5th generation of the original chef who created the very first Xiao Long Bao in China and has over 30 years experience. In 2013 Chef Da and her daughter Sally decided to bring Shanghai’s finest dumplings to Philly.

This place is a fast paced, not overly fancy style dining. It focuses on authenticity and quick efficient service. Probably because there seems to be a line out the door quite often. Although there seemed to never not be a line outside as we ate, the line was continuously moving. People in and out. You’re there for a good meal, not a long one. Online they are stated as byob with a $15 corking fee, but they also had some beer & wine selections including Sapporo which is the oldest brand of beer in Japan, founded in 1876.

On a paper, takeout style menu with mini pictures we decided to try everything that stood out to us. Our order included:

- Chicken soup dumplings - Spicy pan fried pork soup dumplings - Spicy shrimp dumplings - Sticky rice & Pork shao mai - Roast pork buns

I loved everything. This is authentic style dumplings. The broth inside has so much flavor. My suggestion is to pour that delicious dumpling sauce & chili oil over every bite. Mike’s favorite were the shrimp dumplings & mine the pork buns. The sweetness and fluffy texture from the buns were 5 star. Head on over to one of the best spots in Chinatown & don’t forget to tag me in your #KBoozeandBites on instagram, cheers!