Hang Ah Tea Room
The Verdict
"The oldest dim sum restaurant in the United States. "
What you need to know
What to Order
Har Gow: Shrimp dumplings.
Siu Mai: Open-topped pork dumplings.
Char Siu Bao: Steamed BBQ pork buns.
Pot Stickers: Pan-fried with a crisp bottom. Use the vinegar-soy sauce.
Lo Mai Gai: Sticky rice with chicken and Chinese sausage in a lotus leaf, unwrapped at the table.
Finding It
Pagoda Place is a narrow lane off Sacramento between Stockton and Grant. Hang Ah Alley runs off it. Inside, around 30 seats at tight tables.
The History
Hang Ah opened in 1920. The alley location originally offered privacy for tea, gambling, and socializing away from the main streets. The dining room has barely changed since. The restaurant is widely cited as the oldest continuously operating dim sum restaurant in the United States.
Practical Info
Price: Dim sum $4 to $8
Reservations: Not taken; small space fills at lunch
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What to get
Har gow, siu mai, char siu bao, pot stickers, lo mai gai
