🏮 First Impressions: A Hidden Gem Just Outside SF!
Okay, first things first—Koi Palace isn’t technically in San Francisco, but in Daly City (just a short drive away). That doesn’t stop locals from flocking here for some of the best dim sum in the Bay Area! 🚗💨
At first glance, you might think, "Wait… it’s in a strip mall?" 🤔 But don’t let that fool you! The inside is a whole different vibe—think high ceilings, massive aquariums filled with fresh seafood, and even a shallow koi pond 🐟✨. It gives a little bit of a Las Vegas feel (in the best way), but let’s be real, we’re here for the food, not the décor!
🍽 The Crowd: Get Ready to Wait in Line!
One word: PACKED. 😵💫 Seriously, if you think you can just stroll in and grab a seat, think again. The line starts forming before they even open, and it doesn’t slow down. But hey, that’s how you know it’s good, right? 😏
The crowd is a mix of Chinese-American families, dim sum lovers, and foodies willing to make the drive just for a bite. The vibe? Casual but serious about the food. People come here with a plan, and you should too! 📜✨
🍵 What to Drink? Don't Skip the Tea!
Sure, Koi Palace has a full bar, but dim sum without tea? That’s a crime! 🚨 Their tea selection is next-level, with must-tries like:
🍂 Chrysanthemum tea – Light and floral, perfect for balancing out rich flavors.
🍵 Pu-erh tea – Deep, earthy, and great for digestion.
🌸 Jasmine tea – Classic, fragrant, and always a win.
The best part? The tea is served in a pot placed over a tiny candle, keeping it warm throughout your meal. Small details like this make a big difference! ☕🔥
🥟 The Main Event: What to Order!
Dim sum is basically a flavor-packed, shareable feast, and Koi Palace delivers BIG time! 🚀 The menu is massive, but here are the absolute must-try dishes:
🏆 Dim Sum Royalty:
🥢 Shrimp Dumplings with XO Sauce – Sweet, spicy, and packed with umami! 🌶🦐
🥢 Crab Soup Dumplings – A twist on the classic xiao long bao with rich crab flavor. 🦀
🥢 Shanghai Steamed Dumpling Sampler – Each dumpling has a different colored wrapper! So IG-worthy! 📸✨
🦞 Seafood Lovers, This One’s for You!
🐚 Whole Abalone Tart – A buttery, savory treat with minced chicken under a perfect abalone slice. 🤤
🦀 King Crab Dishes – Freshly pulled from the tank and cooked to perfection!
🍩 Save Room for Dessert!
🍩 Sugar Egg Puffs – Think Chinese donut holes, but even better. Soft, airy, and addictive! 🤯
🥧 Custard Tarts – A classic, and Koi Palace does them right! Flaky, creamy, and chef’s kiss! 👌💛
😅 Service: Fast-Paced but Worth It
With a restaurant this busy, you gotta be patient! 🕰 The staff is always moving at lightning speed ⚡, but they’re friendly and efficient. If you want the best experience, visit on a weekday—weekends can get crazy! 😵💫
⭐ Final Verdict: Why You NEED to Go!
If you’re looking for a dim sum experience that goes beyond the usual brunch, this is it! 🥢💕 Grab some friends, be prepared to wait, and get ready for one of the best meals of your life. Whether you’re a dim sum newbie or a seasoned pro, Koi Palace is 100% worth the hype.
📍 Pro Tip: Arrive early (like, really early), come with an empty stomach, and be ready to eat like there’s no tomorrow! 😋🔥
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