When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine
Why Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine is a beloved casual dining spot located on the Upper East Side of New York City, renowned for its authentic and delicious dim sum offerings. This restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere perfect for friends and family gatherings, especially appealing for those who appreciate traditional Chinese cuisine served in an approachable and comfortable setting. One of the highlights at Cha is their unlimited dim sum brunch, available daily from 11 am to 4:30 pm, giving patrons the opportunity to savor a variety of freshly prepared dim sum classics within a 90-minute seating timeframe. The menu features several standout dishes such as shrimp rolls and egg custard buns, which have been praised for their outstanding flavor and quality. The vibrant and friendly service adds to the warm dining experience, making it an ideal place for social meetups and casual meals alike. Whether you are a dim sum connoisseur or new to the cuisine, Cha provides a great balance of authentic taste and value, making it an excellent destination for shared indulgence and culinary enjoyment on New York's Upper East Side.
Here's what people think of Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine
As of recent, Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine holds a 4.5-star rating based on 48 reviews.
Reviews of Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine generally reflect a positive experience centered around authentic flavors and a welcoming ambiance. Patrons frequently commend the quality and taste of the dim sum, especially highlighting the shrimp rolls and egg custard buns as top choices. The unlimited dim sum brunch is a particular favorite, noted for its value and variety, attracting both families and groups of friends to enjoy a relaxed but enjoyable dining experience. The staff has been described as friendly and attentive, contributing to the overall pleasant atmosphere. On the other hand, some reviewers mention the 90-minute time limit during the brunch service as a potential drawback, suggesting it could feel rushed for those wanting to linger longer. A few reviews also hint at the restaurant being quite busy during peak times, which might affect seating availability and service speed. Nonetheless, the positive aspects, such as fresh handmade dishes and the authentic taste, strongly outweigh these concerns. In conclusion, Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine garners high praise for delivering quality dim sum with consistent service, making it a well-regarded spot for communal dining in the vibrant Upper East Side neighborhood.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Celina
We’ve been so excited for this dim sum spot to open and it did not disappoint! Great authentic dim sum. The shrimp rolls and the egg custard buns were outstanding. Service was friendly and welcoming. It was packed with a wait on Saturday and I believe it was their first or second day of being opened for business. Thankfully, we had gone early at 6pm. Looking forward to coming back!
winnie young
Wonderful new place! So glad I found it. I’ve come back a few times for takeout and sit in. Food is delicious but I do wish their walnut shrimp had more shrimp.
Michael Taft
Really nice addition to the neighborhood. The Dim Sum was really excellent. We agreed that we would travel for this place if it wasn’t down the block. The chive and shrimp pan fried dumplings were our favorite dish. New gem discovered 👍🏼
Augusto Paulino
The 6 dim sum items I tried were spot on across the board. The crabmeat and shrimp with spinach dumplings, and the scallop and shrimp with pea sprout dumplings were my favorites. The black truffle with mushroom dumpling is quite different and worth trying. The unlimited dim sum (90 minutes, $32.65 tax included) makes sense only if you have a big appetite for dim sum and can finish at least 4 items, which are each $7.99 and up. It’s good that all the dim sum orders come out at the same time.
Steph W
Ambiance (5/5): The interior is beautifully decorated and slightly on the darker side. The establishment is a bit tight and the back has a few tables that turns and accommodates a few more tables/booths. Service (2/5): They were very understaffed for a Saturday during one of their earlier opening days. There were numerous errors in our dining experience including forgetting our drink, incorrect dishes being ordered to our table, and two dishes not being delivered (confirmed as they were on our bill). It also took awhile to get service to get the bill. The dishes took some time between orders which is why they request to place 3 dishes per person at a time. Food (1/5): There was nothing on the menu that was good and on top of that I had gotten food poison so badly that it just completely ran through my system before I finished eating… Boyfriend didn’t have it as bad as I did but we both went home with stomach troubles. We opted for the brunch all-you-can-eat AYCE $29.99 90 minute option, which after tip still came out to $20/pp which is not cheap. While we were able to try everything we wanted to, the dishes were without flavor and unauthentic to traditional Chinese taste. The soup dumplings are store-bought. The beef w black pepper rolls and bbq pork buns were my favorite of the few we tried. Very tender spare ribs. Too much bbq sauce on the chicken feet. Bland as can be duck roll and veggie spring rolls. Without the table chili oil and soy sauce, I don’t think I would’ve enjoyed anything on the table…
How to reach Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine
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Why Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine is an ideal way to share an experience that delights all the senses. This restaurant, located on New York's Upper East Side, boasts a strong 4.5-star rating from nearly 50 reviews, underscoring its reputation for delicious, authentic dim sum and Chinese dishes. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a comfortable space for groups of any size to relax and connect over food. One of the biggest draws is the unlimited dim sum brunch special available daily, offering a feast of various handmade dishes at a fixed price, which encourages convivial sharing and tasting multiple items without concern for cost. The 90-minute time limit on this brunch creates a lively yet unhurried pace, perfect for chatting and savoring food in good company. The staff is known for friendliness and attentiveness, enhancing the social experience. Whether you want casual dining, delicious food, or a vibrant group atmosphere, Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine offers an inviting setting that naturally draws friends and family together for memorable meals and moments.
What activities does Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine offer for group meetups?
A primary activity at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine is the experience of communal dining through dim sum. Dim sum consists of a variety of bite-sized dishes served in small steamer baskets or on small plates, meant to be shared around the table. This sharing culture fosters interaction and conversation, making it highly suitable for groups. The restaurant’s famous unlimited dim sum brunch allows groups to order a variety of different dishes repeatedly, perfect for those who love exploring flavors together. Beyond the food, the act of tasting and discussing each dish can become a fun and engaging group pastime. Additionally, the restaurant’s casual atmosphere invites socializing without the formality of a fine dining setting, which can sometimes hamper relaxed group interaction. Patrons can enjoy leisurely meals that span hours, ideal for reconnecting over multiple rounds of food and drinks. The variety in the menu, from shrimp rolls to egg custard buns, means there is something for every palate, encouraging everyone in the group to participate and enjoy their favorite tastes. For families, the kid-friendly pricing helps make the outing more affordable while keeping children entertained with familiar food options.
Why is Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine perfect for hosting special occasions or casual get-togethers?
Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine provides an atmosphere that balances casual comfort with authentic culinary delight, perfect for special occasions without the pressure of formal venues. When planning a birthday, reunion, or just a casual hangout, the restaurant’s spacious seating arrangements can accommodate groups of various sizes, allowing everyone to sit together comfortably. The lively dim sum dining style turns meal time into a group event rather than a solitary or two-person experience, naturally promoting engagement among guests. Moreover, the consistent 4.5-star rating and positive reviews indicate that the quality of food and service rarely disappoints, creating reliable expectations for your gathering. The unlimited brunch deal offers a great value, making group dining affordable while allowing guests to enjoy a rich variety of dishes, an important factor when hosting others. Whether your group prefers classic dishes or is adventurous in trying new flavors, the diverse menu and attentive service ensure a memorable occasion. This mix of factors ensures that your meetup feels special and enjoyable, with great food and a convivial ambiance that guests will remember fondly.
How does the unlimited dim sum brunch enhance the group dining experience?
The unlimited dim sum brunch at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine is an innovative feature that significantly enhances group dining by removing the usual restrictions of ordering limitations. Available every day from late morning through mid-afternoon, it offers diners the opportunity to sample a wide array of freshly prepared dim sum items for a flat rate—$30 for adults and $15 for children. This pricing structure encourages groups to try many different flavors and dishes without worrying about escalating costs, which is ideal for social gatherings where sharing and tasting various foods add to the fun. The 90-minute dining window creates a natural but comfortable time frame for groups to enjoy multiple rounds of food, which sparks lively conversation and shared discoveries at the table. This format is particularly engaging for groups who have diverse tastes or dietary preferences, as everyone can find something they like and try dishes from each other’s plates. Furthermore, the casual setting means there’s no pressure to rush, so friends and family can focus on the social aspects of the meal alongside enjoying an authentic culinary experience.
What makes the food and service stand out at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine?
Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine is distinguished by its commitment to authentic, handmade dim sum and traditional Chinese fare, which contributes greatly to its high customer ratings. Diners highlight items like shrimp rolls and egg custard buns as standout dishes, showing a well-balanced menu of savory and sweet options that cater to a broad range of preferences. The focus on freshness and quality ingredients is evident in the taste and presentation, making each dish not only delicious but also visually appealing, which is important for social dining experiences. Another defining feature is the friendly and welcoming atmosphere created by the staff, who are attentive without being intrusive. They help guests understand the menu and accommodate special requests, which is particularly helpful for groups that may include first-timers to dim sum culture or people unfamiliar with certain dishes. This combination of great food and excellent service ensures a smooth and enjoyable outing for groups, making the restaurant a dependable choice for hosting friends and family.
How accessible and convenient is Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine for group visits?
Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine benefits from a prime Upper East Side location in New York City, which is easily reachable by public transportation or car, making it convenient for groups coming from different parts of the city. The restaurant's operating hours for the unlimited brunch extend from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with last seating at 3:00 p.m., offering flexibility for planning daytime meetups. Additionally, the fact that the restaurant offers both dine-in and delivery options means groups can opt for an in-person experience or enjoy their favorite dishes at home or at an alternate meetup location. The reasonable price points combined with the all-you-can-eat dim sum brunch give great value, especially for group events where minimizing expense while maximizing enjoyment is a priority. Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine also accommodates families with children by offering reduced pricing for kids, making it financially accessible for larger family gatherings. Finally, the attentive ordering system and clear menu presentation help streamline group orders, ensuring everyone can participate easily.
What can groups expect from the overall dining atmosphere and décor?
The dining atmosphere at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine is designed to be relaxed and approachable while reflecting authentic Chinese cultural elements through its décor and ambiance. The interior is casual yet tidy, providing a welcoming environment that does not intimidate guests new to dim sum culture, which is often key when hosting diverse groups with various experience levels. The seating arrangements support group conversations with tables sized to accommodate families and friend circles comfortably without feeling overcrowded. The minimalistic yet tasteful décor with subtle nods to traditional Chinese aesthetics lets diners focus on their food and company, making it ideal for socializing. Noise levels are moderate, allowing guests to talk freely without excessive background distraction, crucial for gatherings intended to reconnect and enjoy extended conversations. Overall, the ambiance supports a joyful and communal dining experience that feels special but unpretentious, striking the right balance for both casual meetups and celebratory occasions.
What food options beyond dim sum can enhance a group meal at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine?
While dim sum is the star attraction at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine, the menu also features a variety of other authentic Chinese dishes that can complement a group meal. This includes stir-fry entrees, noodles, soups, and rice dishes that add diversity for guests who may prefer something heartier or more familiar as part of their dining experience. These dishes allow groups to share dishes beyond bite-sized dim sum items, which can be particularly satisfying for larger or longer meals. The availability of both traditional and innovative offerings caters to a broad spectrum of tastes and dietary requirements, enabling every member of the group to find something appealing. Including a mix of dim sum and non-dim sum items also encourages dynamic sharing and tasting, which enriches the social aspect of dining at the restaurant. Finally, the restaurant’s skilled preparation ensures that all menu items maintain the high quality and authentic flavors that patrons expect, further enhancing the overall group dining experience.
How does Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine accommodate families and children during group visits?
Families and children are warmly welcomed at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine, making it an excellent venue for family reunions or get-togethers involving multiple generations. The restaurant offers a children’s pricing option on its unlimited dim sum brunch, which is both thoughtful and practical for families seeking to manage budgets while allowing kids to enjoy the dining experience fully. The variety of mild-flavored dim sum items often appeals to younger palates, while parents appreciate the fresh, handmade quality of the food. The restaurant’s casual vibe makes it easier for families to feel comfortable bringing children without worry about disturbance or formality. Additionally, the friendly and patient staff are accustomed to accommodating families, ensuring high chairs or special requests are handled smoothly. The collective dining experience encourages sharing and involvement, which can keep children engaged and part of the social dynamic during the meal.
Why should groups consider Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine over other dining options?
Groups looking for a dining spot that combines authenticity, value, and a lively social atmosphere should highly consider Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine. Unlike many traditional restaurants where the menu is set and prices per dish may discourage adventurous ordering, this venue’s unlimited dim sum brunch promotes exploration and variety, perfectly suited for communal dining. Its solid 4.5-star rating and positive reviews reflect consistent quality and guest satisfaction, providing assurance for group planners. The restaurant’s casual and welcoming environment eliminates common dining stressors like dress codes or formal reservations, making it accessible for spontaneous or planned meetups alike. The staff’s focus on service and customer comfort further differentiates it, as attentive care enhances every visitor’s experience. In short, Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine offers groups a unique blend of flavorful food, excellent service, and a conducive space for socializing, which together create memorable gatherings that food lovers treasure.
What practical tips can groups use to maximize their experience at Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine?
Groups planning to visit Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine should consider booking early, especially for weekend brunches, to secure a good table large enough to accommodate everyone comfortably. Arriving close to opening times can help avoid peak crowds, offering a quieter and more relaxed start to the meal. Because the unlimited brunch has a 90-minute limit, groups might find it helpful to pace their ordering to allow time to savor each round of dim sum. Trying a variety of dishes encourages group interaction, so sharing plates and recommending favorites can enhance engagement. It’s also wise to discuss dietary preferences or restrictions within the group in advance to guide orders and ensure everyone is included. Finally, allowing for post-meal socializing nearby or at the restaurant can extend the pleasure of the gathering beyond the meal itself.
By choosing Cha Dimsum & Chinese Cuisine, groups tap into an authentic, affordable, and friendly dining experience optimized to create cherished communal memories over delicious Chinese cuisine.