Mai Dim Sum

Buried in the heart of a bustling city block lies an unassuming gem waiting to delight both the weary local and the intrepid out-of-towner with a mien for authenticity—let’s call it DimSum Haven. Stepping inside, you're greeted with an ambiance that resonates with clinking porcelain and hushed conversational tones floating through a sea of gossamer steam. The decor is charmingly simple, with circular wooden tables that seem perennially dotted with bamboo steamers—like some eternal harvest festival—but what unfurls from within these containers are morsels that truly speak of the chef's nimble fingers and deft flavor combinations. Calm yourselves before indulging—the xiao long bao are revered here for their delicate skins and flavorful broth that burst with surprises on every bite.

On occasion, however, what ends up on your table can feel like playing an elaborate game not unlike Russian roulette—some of these lavish savories occasionally take a charismatic detour en route to you, rendered Icarian by some delivery misfortune or another; this I experienced firsthand. While I find the fact veritable lore more than inconvenience, it is worth noting that there's no semblance of recompense should your dumplings rendezvous with another dinner party entirely. Still, walk-in patrons need not share such woes when welcomed by service which attends with an oft-missed efficiency. The journey here is one dashed with savory indulgence, resonating in the taste buds long after the dim sum has filled you, justifying whatever minor techno-geographic travails shared between venue and consumer. — Audrey Al Dente