When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant
Why Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant offers an inviting, casual dining experience perfect for meeting up with friends and family to enjoy authentic and affordable dim sum and other Chinese fast-food favorites. Located conveniently in Los Angeles' Chinatown, Tian's provides a cozy, no-frills setting where guests can savor classic dim sum dishes such as steamed pork dumplings (shu mai), oven-baked pork buns, har gow (shrimp dumplings), and pan-fried turnip cakes. The portions are generous and the prices reasonable, making it an ideal spot for casual gatherings, especially for those who appreciate traditional flavors with efficient service. The restaurant is known for a friendly atmosphere, often praised for prompt and welcoming customer care. Beyond dim sum, Tian's also offers a variety of other Asian dishes including kimchi chow mein, Indonesian fried rice, and vegetarian options like Buddha’s Feast, catering to diverse palates. Though the space is modest and simple, the emphasis on tasty, authentic fare makes it a popular choice among locals and visitors who seek a quick yet satisfying dim sum experience without venturing far from downtown Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant
As of recent, Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant holds a 4.1-star rating based on 267 reviews.
Customer reviews for Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant highlight a mixed yet overall positive impression. Many patrons appreciate the authentic flavors and size of the dim sum offerings, especially praising the oven-baked pork buns, siu mai, and shrimp dumplings for being juicy and flavorful. The service is frequently described as friendly and efficient, contributing to a welcoming dining environment. Several reviewers mention the reasonable pricing, noting that customers receive good value for the amount and quality of food, making Tian’s a practical choice for casual meals or dim sum to-go. On the other hand, some negative feedback focuses on inconsistencies in food quality, such as steamed BBQ pork buns with scant filling and smaller-than-expected dumplings, which some diners felt did not justify the price. Additionally, the restaurant's small, modest space and cleanliness, including facilities, have been noted as drawbacks by a few customers. Despite these critiques, the consensus tends to conclude that Tian's Dim Sum offers a solid, authentic dim sum option in Chinatown that is especially appealing for those seeking convenience, affordability, and classic flavors, with the best experience often reported during earlier hours when selections are freshest.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Ash The Noodle Chick
Tian’s Dim Sum is a great spot for people who’re craving for Dim Sum anytime before 8pm! 🥟 I found this Tian’s because my usual dim sum spot stops serving dimsum after 3pm and I’m sure I’m not the only one that craves for this delicious food in the afternoon! 🥢 The wonton in chile oil is a Must-try! Chicken feet has great texture. I abosutelh loved the pan fried chive dumplings! So juicy! 🚙 Keep in mind it’s in Chinatown, so don’t miss a parking spot! Can’t wait to come again!
henry choo
Dim sum here is fresh and tasty. The wanton stuffing is delicious and noodle is springy and soft. Good morning breakfast and we finished everything on the plates. Cheers
Jiyoon Park
My friend and I were staying at the hotel across the street and we wanted Chinese food, and this was the first place our eyes settled on. You wouldn't expect it by just looking at it, but this place is actually so good! We got the pork and beef stews with egg noodles. The flavord were subtle but definitely not boring. The staff was so nice and patient despite a bit of a language barrier. I am surprised that it wasn't more busy, they definitely deserve the business.
tashina suzuki
My partner and I are obsessed with this place. We came upon it 3 months ago and have been back 4-5 times.(it’s not in our neighborhood or we’d go weekly) It has the most delicious vegetarian options. The best vegetarian dumplings I have ever had and their veggie steamed buns with tofu are to die for. I honestly think it’s underpriced for the quality of food. I also love that they have a little food garden in the side alley. This is my go to spot when friends are visiting from out of town and are also vegetarian. There’s plenty of meat options for those that love it.
Daniel Kawayoshi
Mom and pop hole in the wall dim sum spot. Pretty good dim sum. Made to order. Served hot. Scallion pancake and beef roll served crispy and crunchy. Definitely would go again. Feels like eating in my fiancés moms Chinese kitchen. Tea served at the right temperature and not scalding hot like a lot of Chinese establishments. Only ate the dim sum but will try the Chinese dishes next time.
How to reach Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant
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Why Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant with your friends? Because it is an accessible, cozy, and flavorful destination that brings a diverse group experience in the heart of Los Angeles Chinatown. Even though other places might offer more upscale dim sum, Tian's stands out as a reliable, budget-friendly, and authentic option that caters well to groups looking for a casual dining outing where everyone’s tastes can be satisfied. Dim sum naturally promotes sharing and interaction, making it ideal for social gatherings where ordering plates of dumplings, buns, and other bite-sized delicacies get everyone chatting and sampling a variety of flavors. The atmosphere at Tian's is unpretentious and practical, which encourages relaxed conversations and repeated visits. Plus, with a rating of 4.1 out of 5 based on over 260 reviews, diners have appreciated both the friendliness of the staff and the consistent quality of the food despite it not being a lavish setting. This combination creates the perfect environment for groups to focus on bonding through food without the distraction of pretense or high prices.
What activities does Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant offer that make it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, the dining style itself is a social activity. Dim sum invites sharing, which means friends or family can explore a wide array of dishes together—from classic siu mai (pork dumplings) and har gow (shrimp dumplings) to savory BBQ pork buns that come in generous portions. The menu extends beyond traditional dim sum to include other Asian favorites like pad see ew, kimchi chow mein, and the auspicious vegetarian Luóhàn zhāi (Buddha’s Feast), offering something for every palate and dietary preference. This variety enhances inclusivity, making it easier to cater to mixed groups with diverse tastes. Orders are placed with the waiter, so there isn’t the often overwhelming dim sum cart rush; this allows groups to take their time deciding and to customize their dining experience. The fast service coupled with affordable prices promotes a lively yet unhurried gathering, where people can drop in for lunch or dinner and linger over multiple dishes. Furthermore, the availability of takeout and delivery options means that those who can’t make it in person can still partake in the shared experience remotely.
Why is Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant particularly suited for big groups? The restaurant’s layout and casual vibe accommodate large parties without the formality or space constraints of many other dining venues. Groups don’t need to worry about overly loud environments as the modest setting is convivial and can keep conversations comfortable. The staff has been noted for their attentive and friendly service, which is crucial in managing larger orders and ensuring everyone is served promptly. The menu’s breadth supports a group’s ability to tailor their meal so that no one feels left out, whether they prefer staples like turnip cakes and pork rolls or desire to try vegetarian specialties. Given the location in Chinatown, Tian’s also offers an accessible urban experience that can be easily combined with a stroll around local shops or a visit to nearby attractions after the meal. This makes it ideal for group outings that involve more than just dining but an entire shared cultural or social experience.
What makes Tian’s dining offering unique in comparison to other dim sum places in Los Angeles? While it may not have the high-end allure or extensive cart service of San Gabriel Valley’s dim sum hubs, Tian’s compensates by being conveniently located and reasonably priced. Its menu includes not only dim sum classics but also inventive and diverse dishes that reflect a broader Asian culinary palette. Items like the hot and sour soup filled with various ingredients and the substantial sesame balls appeal to diners looking for comforting, flavorful options beyond the usual. This diversity is a significant draw, especially for groups with varying tastes looking for something both familiar and a bit different. In addition, the restaurant is cash-only, which often translates into better pricing and no hidden surcharges, helping groups stay within budget without skimping on quantity or quality. The size and flavor of dishes, such as the pork buns described as the size of hamburgers with ample fillings, are notable for providing generosity and satisfaction that many diners appreciate after sharing experiences.
How does Tian's Dim Sum Restaurant enhance the overall group meetup experience beyond the food? The ambiance at Tian’s adds significant value by being relaxed and straightforward, creating a welcoming environment that encourages lingering and social engagement. Unlike more formal or noisier venues, Tian’s supports a casual atmosphere where groups can drop in without the pressure of dress codes or reservations. The staff’s amiability helps foster a sense of community, especially important for repeat visitors who become regulars and meet there routinely. Its presence in Chinatown adds a cultural dimension that can enhance any meetup—friends and family can enjoy authentic surroundings that celebrate Chinese culinary heritage. Moreover, the layout encourages shared plates and conversational pacing rather than rushed dining, making the experience about togetherness as much as about the food. All of these factors combine to make Tian’s a reliable destination for those wanting to focus on connection through shared flavors and easy conversation.
How can visitors optimize their visit to Tian’s Dim Sum Restaurant for a memorable meetup? To get the best experience, groups should consider arriving earlier in the day, especially on weekends, to enjoy a larger selection of freshly prepared dim sum options such as siu mai and BBQ pork buns, which can sell out later in the afternoon. Planning a casual but well-spread order helps keep the table dynamic and interactive—for instance, alternating between steamed, fried, and vegetarian dishes to provide a sensory and textural variety. Since the restaurant operates on a cash-only basis, coordinating payments ahead of time reduces any disruptions at the table. Leveraging their friendly service to ask for recommendations or to customize orders can also help tailor the meal to the group’s preferences. Lastly, extending the meetup beyond dining—whether through a cultural walk, visiting nearby shops, or sampling desserts like their famed sesame balls—can turn a simple meal into a more profound communal event that resonates after everyone leaves the table. This approach ensures that gatherings at Tian’s are remembered not just for food but for quality time spent together in a welcoming and authentic setting.