World Famous Dim Sum Opens in Irvine

Just know that when international dim sum star Tim Ho Wan opens their first-ever California location it’s a big deal and there’s going to be a waitlist. Tim Ho Wan at Irvine’s Diamond Jamboree Shopping Center is the first in the U.S. to offer a takeout window in addition to full service.

Founded by chefs Mak Kwai Pui and Leung Fai Keung ten years ago, the original Hong Kong location earned a Michelin star within its first year of operation and gained a cult following as the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant at the time.

Tim Ho Wan’s dim sum-focused menu features a variety of pan-fried, baked and steamed specialties, all of which are handmade to order using fresh ingredients. Unlike most dim sum eateries that offer a multitude of options, Tim Ho Wan limits the a la carte menu to their top 28 hits. Favorites from the menu include the famous Baked BBQ Pork Buns, Steamed Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow), Steamed Pork Spare Rib with black bean sauce, and Glutinous Rice in a Lotus Leaf mixed with chicken, mushrooms and liver sausage.

And there are a few exclusives to this location including Deep Fried Bean Curd with avocado, shrimp and golden chives.

The Irvine restaurant also draft beers, eco- friendly wines and a private sake label.

Open 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m - 10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday.

2700 Alton Parkway, #127 Irvine. 262.888.8828.