How to Order Dim Sum at Empire Garden Portland

Dim sum is more than a meal—it’s an experience. Rooted in centuries of Cantonese tradition, this style of Chinese cuisine transforms brunch into a social ritual, where steaming baskets of dumplings, buns, and delicacies are wheeled from table to table, inviting conversation, discovery, and delight. In Portland, Oregon, one of the most authentic and revered destinations for this culinary tradition is Empire Garden. Nestled in the heart of the city’s vibrant Asian dining scene, Empire Garden offers an unparalleled dim sum experience that blends heritage with hospitality. But for first-timers, navigating the ritual of ordering dim sum can feel overwhelming. How do you know what to order? When do you signal for more? What are the unspoken rules? This guide is your definitive resource to mastering the art of ordering dim sum at Empire Garden Portland. Whether you’re a local resident, a visitor exploring Portland’s food culture, or a food enthusiast eager to deepen your understanding of Chinese culinary traditions, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge, confidence, and insider tips to enjoy dim sum like a seasoned regular.

Step-by-Step Guide

Ordering dim sum at Empire Garden Portland is not a transaction—it’s a choreographed dance between guest and server, tradition and spontaneity. Follow these seven detailed steps to ensure a seamless, authentic, and deeply satisfying experience.

1. Arrive Early or Plan for a Wait

Dim sum at Empire Garden is most vibrant between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on weekends. This is when the kitchen operates at peak capacity and the cart service is most active. Arriving before 10 a.m. gives you the best chance at securing a prime table—preferably near a window or away from high-traffic zones. If you arrive after 11 a.m., expect a wait. The restaurant does not take reservations for dim sum service, so patience is part of the ritual. Use the wait time to observe the flow of the dining room: note which carts are most frequently visited, which dishes are disappearing quickly, and how experienced patrons interact with servers. This observational phase is invaluable.

2. Understand the Cart System

Empire Garden operates on the classic Hong Kong-style dim sum cart system. Servers push stainless steel carts filled with bamboo steamers, each labeled with a number or code indicating the dish inside. These carts circulate continuously throughout the dining room. Your role is not to order from a menu but to signal your interest when a cart approaches. When a cart stops near your table, lean forward slightly, make eye contact with the server, and point to the items you’d like. A simple nod or “Yes, please” in English is sufficient. The server will lift the lid, reveal the contents, and place the designated steamer on your table. They’ll mark your bill with a stamp or checkmark corresponding to the item and quantity.

3. Learn the Most Popular Dishes and Their Names

While servers may not speak fluent English, they are accustomed to regulars and common requests. Familiarize yourself with the names of signature dishes to communicate effectively:

• Har Gow – Translucent shrimp dumplings with delicate pleats, often considered the gold standard of dim sum.
• Shu Mai – Open-topped pork and shrimp dumplings topped with a single orange roe or pea.
• Char Siu Bao – Fluffy, steamed buns filled with sweet barbecue pork.
• Cheung Fun – Rice noodle rolls, either plain or stuffed with shrimp or beef, drizzled with sweet soy sauce.
• Lo Mai Gai – Glutinous rice wrapped in lotus leaves, filled with chicken, mushroom, and preserved sausage.
• Turnip Cake – Pan-fried cakes made from shredded radish and rice flour, often served with soy-based dipping sauce.
• Phoenix Claws – Chicken feet braised in black bean sauce, a favorite among traditionalists.
• Spring Rolls – Crispy fried rolls filled with vegetables and sometimes minced pork.
• Red Bean Paste Buns – Sweet, fluffy buns filled with smooth, slightly earthy red bean paste.

Even if you don’t pronounce them perfectly, pointing and smiling is universally understood. Don’t be afraid to ask, “What’s this?” as a cart passes—servers are happy to explain.

4. Order Strategically: Balance and Variety

Dim sum is meant to be shared. A typical group of four to six people will order between 8 to 12 different items. Aim for balance: include at least one seafood option (like har gow), one meat-based dish (char siu bao or shu mai), one vegetarian choice (vegetable dumplings or tofu rolls), one sticky or glutinous item (lo mai gai or turnip cake), and one sweet to finish (red bean bun or egg tart). Avoid over-ordering early—dim sum is best enjoyed fresh. Start with five to six items, and wait for the carts to return before ordering more. This ensures everything arrives hot and prevents waste. If you’re unsure, ask the server: “What’s popular today?” They’ll often point to items with the highest turnover.

5. Use the Tea Ritual to Guide Your Meal

Tea is not an afterthought—it’s the backbone of the dim sum experience. At Empire Garden, tea service is traditional and ceremonial. Upon seating, your server will bring a small teapot and cups. Pour a small amount of hot water into the teapot, swirl it around, then discard it—this is called “washing the tea” and cleans the vessel. Then, add loose-leaf tea (usually jasmine, pu-erh, or chrysanthemum) and let it steep. When the tea is ready, pour for others before yourself as a sign of respect. Tea helps cleanse the palate between bites, especially important when eating fatty or savory items like char siu bao or fried spring rolls. If you need more hot water, simply lift your teapot lid slightly and make eye contact. The server will refill it immediately. Never pour your own tea during the meal unless invited to do so—it’s a cultural gesture of hospitality.

6. Track Your Order and Confirm Your Bill

Each time you select a dish, the server will mark your bill with a small stamp or checkmark next to the item’s code. Keep your eyes on the bill—some guests forget to count how many pieces they’ve ordered. For example, if you order two pieces of har gow and the server places a single steamer containing four, you’ll be charged for four unless you clarify. If you’re unsure, say, “How many?” while pointing. At the end of your meal, the server will bring the final bill. Review it carefully. If you believe there’s an error, calmly point to the discrepancy. Most servers are attentive and will correct it immediately. Do not assume mistakes are intentional—they’re often the result of fast-paced service.

7. Know When to Leave

Dim sum is leisurely, but it’s not meant to last all day. Most diners spend 90 to 120 minutes at the table. When you’re finished, simply place your chopsticks across your bowl or plate to signal you’re done. If you’re ready to pay, say “Check, please” or “Bill, please.” The server will bring the bill promptly. Tipping is not customary in Chinese dining culture, but leaving a small gratuity (5–10%) is appreciated in Portland’s service economy. You’re not obligated, but it’s a kind gesture if you’ve received excellent service. When you leave, thank the staff—many servers remember regulars by name and appreciate the acknowledgment.

Best Practices

Mastering dim sum at Empire Garden isn’t just about knowing what to order—it’s about understanding the rhythm, etiquette, and cultural context of the experience. These best practices will elevate your visit from enjoyable to unforgettable.

Respect the Flow

Dim sum service moves quickly. Carts arrive and depart every 5 to 10 minutes. Don’t block the aisle or linger too long over a cart. If you’re indecisive, let the cart pass and wait for the next round. Servers are juggling dozens of tables and appreciate efficiency. If you’re with a group, designate one person to be the “order captain” who communicates with the server—this avoids confusion and keeps the experience smooth.

Share Everything

Dim sum is inherently communal. Even if you’re dining alone, ask the server to split a dish into smaller portions. Most items are designed to be shared. Avoid ordering single-serving items unless you’re certain you’ll eat them all. The joy of dim sum lies in tasting a little of everything.

Use Chopsticks Correctly

Chopsticks are the primary utensil. Never stick them upright in your rice bowl—it resembles incense sticks used in funerals and is considered bad luck. Instead, rest them on the provided chopstick rest or across your bowl. If you need to pick up a piece of food from a shared plate, use the clean end of your chopsticks or the provided serving utensils. Don’t spear food—use a gentle pinching motion.

Don’t Waste

Dim sum ingredients are carefully sourced and labor-intensive to prepare. Even if you don’t like a dish, try a small bite. If you truly can’t eat it, leave it on the plate—don’t push it aside or make a fuss. Waste is frowned upon in Chinese culture, and servers notice. If you’re unsure about a dish, ask the server to describe the flavor before ordering.

Ask Questions Politely

Empire Garden’s staff are proud of their food. If you’re curious about an ingredient, preparation method, or regional origin, ask respectfully. “What kind of shrimp is used in the har gow?” or “Is the turnip cake fried or steamed?” are excellent questions that often lead to fascinating stories. Avoid asking, “Is this spicy?” unless you have a known sensitivity—many dim sum items are not spicy by default, and the question can imply the food isn’t properly seasoned.

Observe Local Patterns

Watch how long-time patrons behave. Do they always order the pork dumplings first? Do they sip tea before each bite? Do they save the sweet buns for last? Mimicking these subtle cues helps you blend in and enhances your authenticity. Locals often know which carts come at which times—some even time their arrival to catch the “first round” of fresh har gow.

Bring Cash

While Empire Garden accepts credit cards, many servers prefer cash for tips or small adjustments. Keep a few twenties or tens on hand. It’s also faster when paying—no waiting for a terminal or signature.

Tools and Resources

While dim sum at Empire Garden is best experienced in person, a few tools and resources can enhance your preparation and deepen your appreciation of the meal.

Printed Dim Sum Menu Guide

Though Empire Garden doesn’t offer printed dim sum menus, you can download or print a simplified guide from reputable culinary sites like Serious Eats, China Sichuan Food, or The Spruce Eats. These guides include photos, descriptions, and common names in both English and Chinese characters. Print one and bring it to the restaurant—use it as a visual aid when pointing to dishes. Don’t rely on it to order—use it to learn.

Translation Apps

Apps like Google Translate or Microsoft Translator can be invaluable. Enable camera translation and point your phone at the cart labels or the restaurant’s handwritten signs. Many carts display Chinese characters like 虾饺 (har gow) or 烧卖 (shu mai). The app will instantly translate them. You can also type phrases like “How many pieces?” or “Can I try this?” into the app and have it spoken aloud in Mandarin. This is especially helpful if you’re dining with non-Chinese speakers.

YouTube Tutorials

Search for “dim sum cart experience Portland” or “Empire Garden dim sum walkthrough” on YouTube. Several local food vloggers have documented their visits, showing exactly how carts move, how servers interact, and how dishes are presented. Watching these videos before your visit gives you a mental map of what to expect.

Local Food Blogs and Forums

Follow Portland-based food writers like Portland Monthly, Willamette Week, or Foodie in Portland on Instagram or their websites. They often post updates about seasonal dim sum items, special promotions, or new servers who speak English fluently. Join local Facebook groups like “Portland Foodies” or “Chinese Food in Oregon” to ask for real-time advice: “Is the shrimp dumpling good today?” or “What time does the cart with the pork buns come around?”

Language Learning Tools

For those interested in deeper cultural immersion, use apps like Duolingo or Memrise to learn basic Mandarin phrases related to dining: “多谢” (duō xiè – thank you), “再来一份” (zài lái yī fèn – one more please), “好吃” (hǎo chī – delicious). Even a few words spoken with sincerity will earn you smiles and extra care from staff.

Dim Sum Companion Apps

While no app is officially affiliated with Empire Garden, “Dim Sum Guide” (iOS/Android) offers a comprehensive catalog of over 100 dim sum items with photos, tasting notes, and pairing suggestions. You can create a personal “must-try” list and check off items as you sample them. Some users even upload photos from their visits—use these as visual references when ordering.

Real Examples

Understanding theory is helpful—but seeing it in action makes it real. Here are three detailed examples of how different diners successfully ordered dim sum at Empire Garden Portland.

Example 1: The First-Timer Family

The Chen family—parents and two teenage children—visited Empire Garden on a Saturday morning. They arrived at 9:45 a.m., hoping to beat the rush. They were seated at a round table near the back. The father, who had eaten dim sum in Hong Kong decades ago, took the lead. He signaled the first cart with har gow and shu mai, ordering one steamer of each. He then asked the server, “What’s your favorite?” The server pointed to the lo mai gai. The family ordered that next. The mother, unsure about phoenix claws, asked, “Is this soft?” The server smiled and said, “Very tender.” She tried one bite and loved it. They ordered two more. The teens were hesitant about turnip cake but tried it after seeing others enjoy it. They finished with red bean buns and jasmine tea. By 12:30 p.m., they had tried eight dishes, shared everything, and left feeling full, satisfied, and proud of their experience. They returned the following weekend.

Example 2: The Solo Food Explorer

Maya, a Portland-based food blogger, visited Empire Garden alone on a weekday. She arrived at 11:15 a.m. and was seated at a small table near the kitchen entrance. She brought a printed dim sum guide and a small notebook. She started with two pieces of har gow and one shu mai. As the carts passed, she took notes: “Char siu bao – sweet, not greasy,” “Cheung fun – sauce too salty, ask for less.” She asked the server to split the turnip cake into two portions so she could taste it alongside the spring rolls. She ordered only five items total, pacing herself. She sipped pu-erh tea between bites and asked the server about the origin of the lotus leaves in the lo mai gai. The server, impressed by her curiosity, brought her a complimentary egg tart. Maya posted her experience online with photos and a detailed breakdown of each dish—her post became one of the most-shared dim sum guides in Portland.

Example 3: The Group of Friends

A group of six friends—three from Taiwan, two from China, and one from Canada—booked a Saturday lunch at Empire Garden. They arrived at 10:30 a.m. and immediately began ordering. The Taiwanese friend knew the menu well and directed the group: “Start with the shrimp dumplings, then the pork buns, then the rice rolls.” They ordered 10 items total, including two sweet dishes. They shared chopsticks, poured tea for each other, and laughed as the Canadian friend tried phoenix claws for the first time. When the bill came, they split it evenly. One friend noticed the server had forgotten to mark a steamer of vegetable dumplings. He pointed to it politely. The server apologized and removed the charge. The group left with a small box of leftover buns and a promise to return next month.

FAQs

Do I need to make a reservation for dim sum at Empire Garden Portland?

No, Empire Garden does not take reservations for dim sum service. Seating is first-come, first-served. Arriving early—especially on weekends—is the best way to secure a table.

Is dim sum available every day?

Dim sum is served daily from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. However, the cart service is most consistent and abundant on weekends. Weekday service is quieter, with fewer carts and limited selections.

Can I order dim sum to go?

While Empire Garden focuses on the in-restaurant experience, some items like char siu bao and spring rolls can be packaged for takeout. However, steamed items like har gow and cheung fun are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Takeout is not recommended for the full dim sum experience.

What if I don’t like spicy food?

Most dim sum dishes at Empire Garden are not spicy. The sauces are typically savory or sweet. If you’re concerned, ask the server: “Is this spicy?” or “Does this have chili?” Dishes like phoenix claws and some dumplings may have a light chili oil drizzle, but it’s usually mild. You can always request no sauce.

Are there vegetarian options?

Yes. Look for vegetable dumplings, tofu rolls, steamed buns with mushroom filling, and plain cheung fun. The turnip cake is often vegetarian, but confirm with the server as some versions contain shrimp or pork. Ask for “no meat, no seafood” to be safe.

How much should I expect to spend per person?

Most diners spend between $20 and $35 per person, depending on how many items they order and whether they include drinks. A typical order of six to eight items with tea falls within this range.

Is Empire Garden kid-friendly?

Absolutely. Children enjoy the cart system and the variety of flavors. High chairs are available upon request. Popular kid-friendly items include char siu bao, spring rolls, and red bean buns.

Can I bring my own tea?

No. The tea service is an integral part of the experience, and the restaurant provides a curated selection of traditional Chinese teas. Bringing your own tea is not permitted.

Do they offer gluten-free dim sum?

Most dim sum contains wheat (in dumpling wrappers) or soy sauce. There are very few gluten-free options. If you have celiac disease or a severe allergy, it’s best to consult with the server ahead of time. Some items, like steamed fish or plain cheung fun (if made with rice flour), may be safe—but cross-contamination is likely in a busy kitchen.

Is there parking nearby?

Street parking is limited. The closest paid lot is at the intersection of SW 3rd and Oak, about a two-minute walk. Public transit (MAX light rail) stops nearby. Consider rideshare or biking—Empire Garden is centrally located in Portland’s dining district.

Conclusion

Ordering dim sum at Empire Garden Portland is more than a meal—it’s a cultural immersion, a sensory journey, and a celebration of community. From the rhythmic clatter of steamers to the aroma of jasmine tea, every detail is intentional. By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to order food—you’re learning how to participate in a tradition that values patience, sharing, and respect. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned food lover, Empire Garden offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Cantonese dim sum in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Remember: don’t rush. Don’t over-order. Let the carts come to you. Taste slowly. Share generously. And above all, savor the moment. The next time you sit down at a round table, steamer basket in front of you, you won’t just be eating dim sum—you’ll be living it. And that’s the true magic of Empire Garden.