Tired of tapas? Dim sum is the original small plate with big appeal, and these days it’s enjoying a resurgence in popularity – although, as these top Toronto spots prove, it never really went away.
Lai Wah Heen
Lai Wah Heen in the Metropolitan Hotel features chef Terrence Chan’s innovative creations. Try smoked sturgeon and steamed squash dumpling or abalone and shrimp mousse on Taiwanese vermicelli – or, a traditional trio of steamed pork buns. Not for the budget conscious. 108 Chestnut St., 416-977-9899.
Dynasty Chinese Cuisine
Also on the high end, this Yorkville destination offers paper lists instead of roving carts. The menu features plenty of vegetarian morsels like taro dumplings and grilled turnip paté. 131 Bloor St. W. 416-923-3323.
Bright Pearl Seafood Restaurant
This huge yellow building in the centre of Chinatown seats over 450 people, but it’s still rammed during its weekday happy hour. Seafood is the specialty, but with almost 100 dishes to choose from, there’s ample variety. 346-348 Spadina Ave., 416-979-3988.
Asian Legend
This small chain now has six locations throughout the GTA, but the original spot on Dundas still serves up Northern-style dim sum (heartier than standard Cantonese) in an environment that shuns sterility for charming fusion décor. 418 Dundas St. W., 416-977-3909.
Grand Lake Chinese Cuisine
It’s no secret that the most authentic Chinese cuisine is now found in the suburbs. This is a gem in Markham, the new hub of Chinese culture (and food) in the GTA. You can even call ahead to pre-order. 8362 Kennedy Road, 905-415-1666.
Image courtesy of Marco Veringa.
