Dim sum for many Chinese descendant is a weekly ritual. The whole family takes a trip to their favorite restaurant to have Dim Sum (Chinese Brunch). There are a few good places in Philadelphia that are far more superior than places that serve dim sum in NYC. Joy Tsin Lau is where many come to for good dim sum, it located on Race Street between 11th and 12th Streets. Weekends you might have to wait 10-15 minutes before you getting a table. Once at your table the waiter will ask you what type of tea you would like. I recommend the Chrysantenum/Jasmine tea, it a hit with kids because they can add rock sugar (sugar candy) to sweeten the tea. All the dim sum food will be pushed around in a cart and many will explain to you what the food consists of. You can also order noodles/ fried rice and other dishes a la cart, just ask a waiter to take your order.
Dim sum is a social event where you want to be seen.
You will notice that you will get full very quick, due to the greasiness of the food, and within 2 hours you will be hungry again.
Tips: try the Siu Mai (open face dumpling made with pork) Har Kau (shrimp dumpling in thin dough)
or the Cheong Fun (Rice rolls with variety of meat you can choose from), For those on the adventurous tip, try the chicken feet or snails in black bean sauce.
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