Harbin Dumpling — Restaurant in Montreal

I've been a happy customer since they opened, I've spent so many birthdays here, I actually met my boyfriend here 6 years ago - the food is consistently good, and the service is always friendly. During the phase of the pandemic where dining rooms were closed, my sister and I did a lot of pickup orders. The owner caught on and would give us merch as a thank-you, which really made us feel like they appreciate the support of their neighbours.

I came here last night, about 30 minutes before closing for a quick bite (didn't realize the time), yet the service I received was still welcoming, kind and quick. Our dumplings were delicious, but the chicken karaage was 80% breading - although, this is probably because we showed up at the end of the evening. Unfortunately, we witnessed a rude customer belittling the waitress and demanding free food, but despite this, the waitress responded politely and professionally. I'm including this little moment to my review in hopes of reminding future clientele to have some grace and patience in their approach to customer service workers, especially if they welcome you 20 minutes to...

Don't get me wrong, their dumplings are delicious (which is why I'm giving them 2 stars instead of 1) and I have been here before and enjoyed the experience.

But the most recent time, it took my partner and I nearly an hour to be served our food. We got there at 730, were seated by 745, and were only served around 840ish. We were supposed to go see a movie at Cinema Moderne and had to bail on those (prepaid) plans. Such a bummer.

They clearly forgot about us and weren't even apologetic about it. I didn't want to be rude by asking them to hurry up or let them know that we were in a rush (we should have had enough time.. I don't like to be a difficult customer, I've worked in the service industry for years. But several other groups who sat down after us were served before us. They clearly just forgot about us). Unfortunately, I do not think I will return - there are other dumpling places in the city that I love, and if I plan to eat before going to the cinema again, I'll go...

Small restaurant, not very covid-safe since the tables are made long and don't really allow 2 meter distance. But cute appearance, nice plates. Their chili oil is surprisingly very good, has a real kick to it.

Seaweed salad: my family buys the exact same thing at the store. For the portion that the restaurant gives, i feel like buying at the supermarket is more worth your money.

Karaage (popcorn chicken): chicken is freshly fried. Breading is a little too thick for my taste. Seasonning is good. Comes with store bought sweet chili sauce, too sweet.

Miso soup: basic, not bad.

Dumplings: Delicious, made by little asian ladies, despite the causasian owner. Took chicken shitaake and we couldn't see the mushrooms but the taste was present. I say the beef filling ones have the most flavorful broth in the dumpling. (Forgot to take a picture of them)

Overall good service, would not recommend the side dishes/appetizers, but good dumplings and price...