ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Dim Sum in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Dim Sum Garden
8.1
Dim Sum Garden is a casual Hong Kong-style dim sum house near Grand Central where bamboo baskets of dumplings, buns, and rice rolls anchor most orders. It’s more about steady comfort than ceremony, with a menu that lets you build a full meal from small plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shanghai soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao), Signature dim sum platter, Pan-fried pork dumplings
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: All-day dim sum with soup dumplings and a broad menu of classic baskets.
Who should go: Dim sum fans wanting casual dumplings near Grand Central.
When to visit: Late mornings or lunch when baskets turn over quickly.
What to order: Shanghai soup dumplings, signature dim sum platter, fried pork dumplings.
Insider tip: Start with a sampler platter, then add baskets you liked most for round two.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is very limited around Grand Central; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, sneakers, and everyday wear are completely fine.
Noise level: Moderate during peak brunch and lunch, quieter during off-hours.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during late brunch and early dinner rushes.
Weekday lunch: Often no wait or under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable dumplings, scallion pancakes, and rice rolls are available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few vegetable-based dumplings and sides if you ask.
Gluten-free options: Limited — many dishes use wheat-based wrappers and soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, low-pressure dates than romantic ones — it’s more about fast-paced shared eating than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s primarily walk-in friendly, especially outside peak brunch and lunch hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — dumplings, buns, and fried items work well for kids, and the casual pace is forgiving for families.
Best For
Better for: Quick, reliable dim sum near Grand Central without the formality of Chinatown banquet halls.
Skip if: You want carts, a luxe dining room, or a long, leisurely dim sum experience.