We dim-summed at Lai Wah Heen this morning for Rabbit-mother’s birthday. Overall, it was a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon, although I’m not sure we quite made the most of the experience. We were battling various dislikes and allergies at our table, which perhaps thwarted our tasting some of the more interesting menu options.

We sampled various dumplings (shrimp, pork and scallop shu-mai, chicken and vegetable shu-mai, pork, shrimp and bok choy dumplings, chicken and mushroom potstickers). Dumplings were good, but no better, in my opinion, than at Mother’s Dumplings, even slightly greasier. Bok choy dumplings were probably the best of the bunch. Also tried the jellyfish. This was my first time eating jellyfish, and while Mr. Rabbit was all over it (and familiar, being half-Asian), I struggled with the texture. For those who have never tried this dish - it’s crunchy… cartilage-y, really rather disconcerting. I couldn’t take much, and the Rabbit-sister didn’t even try, but Rabbit-mother put back a surprising amount of her jellyfish (”lucky birthday noodles” as she re-christened them). The highlight of the meal was our decision to order the to Peking Duck… and this was wonderful. Served two ways, it is initially presented with pancakes and scallions, then in a sort of minced stir-fry in a lettuce cup.

I wanted sweets, but was out-voted (sweets looked wonderful).

Total for the meal (with tea, no alcohol) was $105 (before tip), which we found surprisingly reasonable (note that there were four of us). Room is pretty, and service was pleasant and professional. I’d like to go back and ramp up the adventurous-ness factor for a richer experience.

Posted on June 24th, 2007 by rabbit
Filed under: Toronto, Restaurant Reviews