Dim Sum in Denver: A Culinary Adventure
Denver’s dim sum scene is growing, offering a delicious taste of Cantonese cuisine. You can find a variety of bite-sized dishes, from steamed dumplings to savory rolls, at several restaurants throughout the city.
Dim sum, traditionally enjoyed with tea, is a communal dining experience meant to be shared and savored. Finding the best dim sum in Denver requires a bit of exploration, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
What is Dim Sum?
Dim sum, meaning “touch the heart” in Cantonese, is a style of Chinese cuisine prepared as small, bite-sized portions served in steamer baskets or on small plates. According to this Wikipedia article, dim sum is typically enjoyed for brunch and is often served alongside Chinese tea.
Where to Find Dim Sum in Denver
While Denver doesn’t have a Chinatown like some major cities, several restaurants offer excellent dim sum experiences. These establishments typically serve dim sum from carts on weekends or have a menu where you can order your favorites. Some popular choices include:
- Star Kitchen
- Hop Alley
- Imperial Chinese Seafood Restaurant
What to Expect When Ordering Dim Sum
If you’re new to dim sum, the variety can be overwhelming, but don’t be intimidated! Many restaurants have menus with pictures, making it easier to choose. Some classic dishes to try include:
- Har Gow: Translucent shrimp dumplings
- Siu Mai: Pork and shrimp dumplings
- Char Siu Bao: Steamed barbecue pork buns
- Xiao Long Bao: Soup dumplings
Don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations or try something new. Dim sum is all about exploration and discovering your favorite flavors.
Tips for Enjoying Dim Sum
Here are a few tips to enhance your dim sum experience in Denver:
- Go with a group: Dim sum is best enjoyed with friends or family, allowing you to sample a wider variety of dishes.
- Arrive early: Dim sum restaurants can get crowded, especially on weekends, so arriving early can help you avoid long waits.
- Be adventurous: Don’t be afraid to try new dishes you’ve never had before.
- Drink tea: Dim sum is traditionally enjoyed with Chinese tea, which complements the flavors of the food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to eat dim sum?
Dim sum is traditionally eaten for brunch or lunch, typically between late morning and early afternoon.
Is dim sum expensive?
The price of dim sum can vary depending on the restaurant and the dishes you order, but it’s generally affordable, especially when shared with a group.
What kind of tea goes best with dim sum?
Popular tea choices for dim sum include jasmine tea, oolong tea, and pu-erh tea.
How do you eat soup dumplings?
Carefully pick up the dumpling with chopsticks, place it on a spoon, and poke a small hole to release the broth before eating the dumpling and the broth.
Is dim sum healthy?
Some dim sum dishes can be high in sodium and fat, but there are also plenty of healthy options, such as steamed vegetables and seafood dumplings.
Summary
Denver offers a growing and diverse dim sum scene. From classic dumplings to creative variations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Exploring the different restaurants and dishes is a fun way to experience the flavors of Cantonese cuisine in the Mile High City. So gather your friends, order a pot of tea, and embark on a dim sum adventure!
Leave a Reply