There are several high-profile dim sum eateries in Boston, and Windsor Dim Sum Cafe is one of my favorite. The establishment appeared modest from the outside but once inside the atmosphere transformed into a packed eatery with communal tables packed with multi-generational families.
Usually there’s a long wait, but today my timing was fortuitous and I was able to secure a seat right away next to an Asian American couple with two young children.
If you’re indecisive like me, you’ve come to the right place. The prices of each dish is so reasonable, you can usually afford to order everything that catches the eye. If you don’t like the fluffy steam buns (char siu bao) or the chewy, translucent skin in the shrimp dumpling (har gow), there’s no shame in leaving food untouched.
It’s better if you’re dining with others so you can order a wide variety and find something you like. Cheung fun (steamed sheets of filled rice noodles served with sweet soy), steamed pork ribs, chicken feet, tripe, congee with preserved egg, you name it. But even going solo, the portions are small enough that you can consume lots of dishes before you’re ready to take on your final round of dessert — normally an egg-filled custard that’s both crispy and sweet, washed down generously with miniature cups of boiling hot tea.
I started with the Char Siu Bao, (fluffy steam buns with pork) and Har Gow (shrimp dumplings wrapped by chewy, translucent skin). The couple next to me were chewing on Chicken feet and slurping congee. Next to the hot, simmering bowl, were long, golden brown strips of dough, deep fried and chewy called Youtiao.
“So do you guys come here, often?
“Well, we don’t live too far from here. We’re from South Shore and every time we’re in town, we make a beeline for Chinatown,” the young mother responded.
“Yeah, we like to get Dim Sum, since it’s four of us, so there’s something for everyone,” the father chimed in. “I couldn’t agree with you more. I like the convenience and you get full without breaking the bank,” I added.
I was as happy as a clam. I had made a right decision – friendly people, great location, fantastic taste and everything reasonably priced – now I was ready to enjoy my weekend!
