![]() Is takeout dim sum a contradiction in terms? An insult? A false promise? We reached into a plastic bag and pulled out little Styrofoam containers, each holding a wee portion of dumplings, shrimp noodles, fried sesame balls, spring rolls. We knew without knowing that life was about to change and that our time there was limited. Usually, dim sum confers a feeling of suspended time and recklessness once you settle into a round table and start pointing, well, you know you’re going to be there for a while. Back then, there was a vague sense of unease: Is everything about to change? Is it safe to be out in public? We dug in with tentative resignation: This might be our last hurrah for a long while. This was right before COVID-19 upended our lives. This was the scene in late February at Winsor Dim Sum House in Quincy, a lifetime ago now, where I inhaled dumplings with two dear friends. Snap apart those chopsticks you’ve arrived. Then - plonk! Almost immediately, a treasure lands on your plate whether you’ve asked for it or not. The feeling of smug triumph when your number is called, and you’re ushered past other mere mortals still vying for a taste. Even the RMV-like lines as you wait to be summoned inside, a mixture of hangry urgency and dutiful patience. Instant gratification when a heaping portion lands on your plate. The anticipation as a cart cruises past your table - an array of shimmering delights -and you flag down its steerer to select your bounty. The circular tables that heighten the communal spirit among strangers, united by similar timing and the luck of a few empty seats. Do tip! It may seem unnatural since you're paying your bill at a separate cashier instead of at the table, but it's expected to leave a tip on the table for your server and the people pushing the trolleys if you had good service.As far as immersive restaurant experiences go, nothing beats dim sum for pure hedonistic overload.Oh, and you can pour sauce on your rice if you want, but it's intended to be a plain, bland accompaniment. Want rice with that? Steamed white rice can be ordered upon request, and it's a good way to cleanse your palate between bites of strongly seasoned dim sum fare.Instead, lay them horizontally on the edge of the plate. The basic rules of chopsticks apply: don't spear your food with them, and don't leave them sticking straight up in a bowl of rice when you're not using them. Chopsticks are the norm, but don't feel bad about asking for a fork if you need one. Just don't swoop in and steal the last one. What do you do? It's perfectly acceptable to get out of your seat and chase down the specific cart you're looking for. You see the steamed rice roll cart all the way on the other side of the dining room and you're afraid they're going to run out before they make their way over to you. If there's a buffet-style line at the restaurant, bring your card with you when you go there. Make sure to keep your card out so the cart pusher can stamp it. Don't see your favorite dish in the dining room? Most large dim sum restaurants can bring you a fresh one straight from the kitchen-just ask for it. ![]() ![]() Good rule of thumb: if you're not sure what it is, try it. The server will generally offer you each one of the two or three dishes their cart is carrying. This is pretty simple: just let the food come to you. ![]() To be extra polite, make sure to fill up other people's glasses before your own, and tap the table to thank someone for filling yours. When you empty the pot, turn the lid upside down or leave it ajar to let the waiter know you want a refill. Check the tea before you pour to make sure it's steeped enough. Most dim sum restaurants will have a few varieties of tea on hand and will probably get you a different type if you prefer it over their house tea. You should be given a pot of tea as soon as you first sit down. Share! As with most small plates dining, the more people you have and the more dishes you order, the better the experience will be for everyone. ![]()
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