Dim Sum Garden was not the first Winnipeg place I had ever tasted the Chinese “snack” of dim sum. That momentous occasion was at the Hong Kong Snack House, many years ago with a good old friend, appropriately from Hong Kong. But the “Garden” in all of its manifestations, first on Rupert Ave. and now on King St. has been the restaurant that I have frequented most often when I get a hankering for these delectable morsels. Dim Sum is an integral part of Chinese cuisine, closely associated with the tradition of yum cha, or “taking tea”. Since I have always been a fan of savoury over sweetness, this custom sure makes sense to me.

Having said this, I had never visited the second Dim Sum Garden located at 2677 Pembina Hwy. Based on the multi-page menu that I thumbed through while my to-go order was being prepared, this busy place offers more than snacks for tea. When I arrived the place was full of an even split between Asians and Caucasians but by the time I departed with my order, I was definitely in the minority. I understand that this is a sure fire way to evaluate authenticity.

The order did take the kitchen a lengthy time to prepare but this is because their dim sum is made to order and not delivered by the customary carts. One of my selections did not “hold” terribly well on my lengthy drive home, but all the items were still pleasantly warm, which is the temperature that I deem perfect for dim sum consumption.

The circular pork and chive dumplings had been steamed and then quickly placed on the grill. Even though there was not a container of the pink vinegar that I enjoy with these, white vinegar was an adequate, if not quite so pretty accompaniment. I also appreciate how the many chives peeked through the transparent wrapper.

Eggplant stuffed with shrimp was deeply satisfying. The meaty, white flesh of Chinese eggplant offset the enormous shrimp. A pleasantly salty, translucent black bean sauce was drizzled over top.

Chinese perogies are typically the only deep-fried dim sum item that I indulge in. The sweetness in the dough is a surprise when stuffed with a ground meat in a gravy-like sauce. Kind of like eating a jam buster stuffed with meat. Don’t knock it until you try it! This was the item that got a bit soggy by the time I sat down to my affordable lunch.

Service is friendly and pleasant. Any communication difficulties were on my part, not theirs. If you want authentic, this is par for the course.

Kath’s quote: “Talk doesn’t cook rice.” Chinese Proverb

Live simply, laugh often, love deeply.

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