So here's a duo of revisits........
Dumpling Hut:
I'd been wondering what was going with Dumpling Hut since they opened in June. During those visits, the quality control seemed lacking as was the service which was totally out of synch....all the "little things" seemed to have been missed. And while the folks here seemed really nice, they looked like they were totally out of their depth. I did make myself a promise to return to try the lamb jiaozi....so sooner was better than later, right?
Wow, this was really strange......while the place was quite busy during my previous visits; this time around the place was totally empty....during my entire meal! The state of Chinese cuisine in San Diego is quite interesting.....the old guard are loyal to the places that have been around a long time, even though the product is mediocre....but they have a problem with change. Other folks don't mind mediocre technique and products, so long the portion size is large. But it seems that everyone draws the line, and rightly so, at waiting 40 minutes plus for jiaozi, wrong orders, having to hunt down your own utensils and napkins (which I had to do on this visit though I was the only customer - my napkins were soiled by vinegar), and other problems, which is what I saw and experienced on my previous visits....though perhaps this visit was an exception and they do a booming business on other days (this was a Thursday 1115 am).
Anyway, my lamb jiaozi. As before, the jiaozi wrappers were decent.....
The lamb had a decent gamey flavor, but was really dry, tough, and gritty. It also needed a bit more flavor. This ain't even close to our favorite version of lamb jiaozi.
The attitudes, like before was very cordial and nice....though the execution of small things...like having napkins was lacking. It seems like there are no systems in place here. Too bad....... I'd hoped that they'd improve.
Dumpling Hut
8046 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
San Diego, CA 92111
Golden City:
I should really know better....after all of my visits over the years. I won't bother you with too many details, but will leave you with a simple rule....
Kwai Fei Chicken makes for a nice lunch.
Adding Macao Roast Pork shows lack of self control.......
And can lead to meat sweats and problems staying awake for afternoon meetings......
Bad move on my part....
Golden City Restaurant
5375 Kearny Villa Rd.
San Diego, CA 92123
My friends and I went to DH earlier this summer. There was a HAIR in between the plastic on one of their menu covers. Ewww.
That Macao roast pork looks pretty good. That skin looks quite crispy.
Posted by: caninecologne | Tuesday, 29 September 2015 at 09:30 PM
kanak attack!
Posted by: kat | Tuesday, 29 September 2015 at 11:02 PM
I love dumpling(jiaozi).Jiaozi is one of the most famous and traditional food in China.
The roast pork is pretty great. It is amazing!!
yummy, yummy, Ning
Posted by: Ning Wei Wang | Wednesday, 30 September 2015 at 04:29 AM
Sad that the jiaozi wasn't good; I had high hopes for improvement after the initial opening jitters. Golden City makes a great kwai fei...it's such a healthy lunch compared to that roast pork.
Posted by: Cathy | Wednesday, 30 September 2015 at 05:35 AM
I don't think these folks ever had any restaurant experience CC.....
And meat sweats Kat!
The roast pork was good Ning.
Ordering that pork for a solo lunch was an error in judgement Cathy!
Posted by: Kirk | Wednesday, 30 September 2015 at 06:34 AM
Speaking of dumplings, have you revisited Dumpling Inn after they moved into their hip new location? I went there last last weekend so I'm curious of your impressions.
Posted by: Jason | Wednesday, 30 September 2015 at 08:46 AM
Thanks for the update on Dumpling Hut. I haven't been back since my first visit soon after they opened. It sounds like nothing has changed. They seemed to be really nice and friendly so hoped for an improvement.
Posted by: jack | Wednesday, 30 September 2015 at 08:51 AM
Hi Jason - No I haven't been to their new location....folks have told me it's gotten even worse? I do have it on my list though. Also, word on the street is that the owner is trying to sell.
It seems that way Jack. Sad.....
Posted by: Kirk | Wednesday, 30 September 2015 at 09:05 AM
Hmm... Meat sweats doesn't sound too bad to eat that delicious looking roast pork... You probably work too hard and deserve a nap anyways!
Posted by: Soo @ hungryones | Wednesday, 30 September 2015 at 09:22 AM
I totally deserve a daily siesta Soo! Not sure about having meat sweats during meetings though....
Posted by: Kirk | Wednesday, 30 September 2015 at 03:16 PM
Oh wow. That's a meal for two!
Too bad DH still has issues. Will steer clear.
Posted by: Junichi | Thursday, 01 October 2015 at 11:44 AM
Or 3 Junichi..... They are struggling at Dumpling Hut....too bad. Nice people.
Posted by: Kirk | Thursday, 01 October 2015 at 12:13 PM