Unfortunately I left this experience feeling very unsatisfied with the food. As the food was delivered to our table, I found a strand of hair in my pork belly rice bowl as it was served onto our table. The restaurant did their absolute best to reconcile this matter by providing us a refund of the entree and another appetizer and unlimited drinks.
But the real kicker was that for a $50+ lunch there was so much left to be desired. The food was really oily and just left an immediate uneasy feeling in my stomach. The XLB was alright but they kept breaking in the steam pan as it stuck to the paper so we really didn't get too much of that soup filling. The pan fried dumplings didn't look as fried as they did in the menu pictures but they were ok.
I also think it's weird that you pay upfront and also leave a tip before anything is ever serviced for yourself. To only then realize that you have to do most of the service yourself (ie. grab utensils, drinks, etc.). It's my option to choose what to tip but I wish I had the option to reduce the tip after what we had experienced during this lunch.
This restaurant really feels like they could benefit from actual service considering that the prices of the entrees and appetizers were not inexpensive. This place felt more like a grab and go spot than a place where I would entertain a nice sit down lunch with friends.
Unfortunately I cannot recommend this restaurant because of the hair caught in the food which was baked into entree and not just a stray hair that just happened to fall on top of the plate as it was being delivered. If the chef and the server didn't see this and it took me to notice it right away once it approached the table then who knows what kind of quality assurance that they have for...
Read moreI absolutely love this hidden gem! I meant to leave A review much sooner. My Dad and I tend to visit this shopping center at least once per month, and always end up very hungry after running errands. Finding vegan options in Chula Vista has been quite challenging, let alone a place that offers options for both omnivores and vegetarians alike. I found this spot and could not help myself but step in to ask about their menu and was greeted by the Lovely owner who was incredibly sweet enough to go through the menu with me and provide great recommendations! I ordered Their steamed Vegan Dumplings , which were divine! Juicy, cooked to perfection and packed with flavor! their sides are a delightful addition too! Make sure to pick whatever additional sauces, condiments, and cutlery, you’d desire, as you have the freedom to choose what it is you need to have the best dining experience to your unique liking! Which I absolutely love. I now always look forward to my trips to this shopping center just to get my monthly dose of tasty dumplings🥟 I’d like to thank the employees/hospitable staff as well as the wonderful owner , Sarah, for being so kind, committed and for providing such wonderful dishes 🖤 I did mean to take a picture yet finished them before 💔
Options for everybody! My favorites: Vegan Steamed or Pan fried Dumplings. Cucumber salad Sautéed Bok Choy Mushroom...
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I can’t say enough good things about this little gem of a dumpling house! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with the warmest smiles and attentive service. The staff made us feel genuinely welcome, patiently explaining the menu and offering helpful suggestions without ever being pushy.
Now, let’s talk about the pan-fried chicken dumplings. Absolutely phenomenal! Perfectly crisp on the outside with a golden, crunchy bottom and a soft, tender wrap on top. The filling was juicy, flavorful, and seasoned just right, that made every bite burst with authentic flavor. You can tell these dumplings are made fresh, with care and skill.
We also tried a few other dishes, but honestly, I would come back just for those dumplings alone. The dipping sauce complemented them beautifully, with just the right balance of savory and tangy.
Between the excellent food and the incredibly friendly service, this place is a must-visit for anyone who loves dumplings. Highly recommended, and I can’t wait to come back!
Update: I went to Luscious for lunch today and their new server is an absolute gem. Gilbert is so personable, friendly and helpful. He made sure to point out the new items on the menu and checked on us multiple times. Gilbert, keep shining and...
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