It’s noisy, it’s crowded, it’s often pure mayhem. It’s one of Los Angeles’ best kept secrets. Huge, but hidden on the second floor inside a courtyard shopping center in Chinatown, this gem of a restaurant is a must-try experience that may just become a habit.

Come early, or your likely to be told “No more food, we outta food.” Take a number and prepare to wait, anywhere from 20 minutes up to an hour. Don’t worry, it’s worth the wait. Pass the time shopping the various shops within the center selling everything from swords to herbs.

When your number is finally called, you’ll be led through an immense and noisy hall to your table. Once seated a waiter will offer drinks (maybe), and the hostess will place a punch slip on your table.

Waitresses with number tags instead of name tags noisily push steamer carts filled with all kinds of Chinese Foods. As they pass by your table, you can opt to take one or more portions of the dishes they offer. Each time you take a portion, they stamp your punch slip with a symbol that represents the dish.

Dim Sum consists of an endless collection of little delicacy dishes. Food is inexpensive, and decadent. Lots of breaded and fried things, many with shrimp. Shu Mai, Har Gow, Pork Buns, and Custards are just some of the yummy items you’ll be offered.

If you like vegetables, order Chinese Broccoli from the waiter (or anything else you like from the menus – they won’t offer, you need to ask). Most of the dishes are quite nice. I’d recommend you stick to the dishes that come in steamers. Everything is really inexpensive except the roast duck and roast pork dishes.

Part of the experience is that you’ll have little or no idea how much you just spent until the check comes. They total the punch slip, and deliver a bill – don’t worry, you’re likely to be shocked at how low the bill is. It’s a great experience, and a great bargain – highly recommended!

excellent dim sum