So, I’d been meaning to properly dive into the dim sum scene here in San Francisco for what feels like ages. You hear all the talk, right? Everyone’s got their “best place ever,” and honestly, it gets a bit much trying to figure out where to even start. I’d scroll through lists, read a bunch of opinions, and then just end up making toast or something equally unexciting. But last week, I finally just did it.
Deciding and Getting There
My friend, let’s call him Dave, he’d been going on and on about this one spot. Not even a famous one, just his local haunt. Said it was legit. So, I thought, okay, why not? Better than spending another hour paralyzed by choice. Finding the place was the first part of the adventure. You know how it is in this city – you circle around for what feels like an eternity, hoping a parking spot magically appears. Finally snagged one a few blocks away and walked over. The anticipation was building, mostly ’cause I was just plain hungry by then.
Walking in, it was exactly what I expected, but also, not. It wasn’t one of those super fancy, modern places. This was old school. A bit loud, a bit crowded, and full of that busy, clattering energy. Tables packed close together, families, old folks, everyone just digging in. That’s usually a good sign, I reckon.
The Main Event: Ordering and Eating
We got seated pretty quick, thankfully. And then the carts started rolling by. This is the part I always find a bit frantic but also kind of fun. Ladies pushing these metal trolleys, calling out names of dishes I mostly can’t pronounce. You just gotta have quick eyes and point at what looks good. It’s a real test of your decision-making skills under pressure!
Here’s a rundown of what we ended up grabbing:
- Siu Mai (Pork and Shrimp Dumplings): Had to get these. A staple. They were good, solid. Juicy and flavorful.
- Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings): My personal favorite. The wrappers were nicely translucent, and the shrimp inside was snappy. Thumbs up.
- Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns): We got the steamed ones. Soft, fluffy bun, sweet and savory pork filling. Classic comfort food, really.
- Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls): Went with the shrimp version. Silky smooth noodles, though I wish they’d been a tad more generous with the soy sauce.
- Lo Mai Gai (Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf): Unwrapped this steamy parcel, and the aroma was amazing. Full of chicken, mushrooms, and that savory sticky rice. Very filling!
We just kept pointing and nodding as the carts came by. It’s easy to get carried away, for sure. Your eyes are definitely bigger than your stomach in these situations. I saw some chicken feet go by, and I was tempted, I really was, but Dave gave me a look, so I passed this time. Maybe next time I’ll be braver.
Final Thoughts
We ate until we couldn’t really move much. The table was a mess of empty steamer baskets and little plates. Paid the bill, which was surprisingly reasonable, and waddled out. It wasn’t like some mind-blowing, life-changing culinary revelation, you know? But it was good, honest dim sum. It felt authentic, and it was just a fun experience overall.
Sometimes, I think, you don’t need the absolute “best” according to some list. You just need a place that feels right, serves up tasty food, and lets you enjoy the moment. This place did that. I left feeling satisfied, and like I’d finally ticked something off my mental SF to-do list. Now I’m already thinking about what other spots to try. This city’s got no shortage, that’s for sure.