Jade Tea Garden 如苑 — Restaurant in Cupertino

WARNING: they're conning you on gratuity and tax. The worst service I have ever received even for a Chinese restaurant. I don't need you to be westernized polite, but I expect fast and efficient service. Went for dim sum with 4 adults and my 3 year old son and they had no high chairs in sight. I looked around and it didn't look like there were any at any table. They didn't bring him a setting and we continuously had to ask for plates, chopsticks, sauces. The service was horrible, the food was ok but nothing to write home about, and then we got the check. 18% gratuity and the manager came and said that's for tables 5 and up. When we said there's only 4 adults, she said oh my bad it's for 4 and up, so clearly she's lying. Then we noticed that they actually charge you tax on the gratuity, and when we explained this to management, they got visibly upset and said if we don't like their policies we don't need to dine there anymore! I have never been so insulted. It's the principle that they are conning all tables out of more money and it's an incorrect overcharge of tax. If your service was good, I'm fine with paying 18% any way, but I feel like they hide behind this and choose not to give good service because they know they're gonna get the gratuity any way. I will never spend my hard earned money at such an establishment and l urge you to not either. There's plenty of better dim sum places around that doesn't have...

We had Chinese New Year Eve dinner there. I made a reservation for 5 but still needed to wait ~ 20 mins. The manageress pointed us to get in and turned right. When we sat at the table, she said not this table and moved us to another crowded small table on the walkway. That original table was reserved. Bad communication when she was busy. I just wondered, they actually reserved table, but I needed to wait for 20 mins though I also had a reservation and then moved around by the busy manageress. Food was ordered, but the first dish only came after 1 hour 15 mins after a few inquiries. Yes, food tasted better when you were hungry. I saw that the guests from another table also got up and wanted the leave, they even went to the kitchen to ask about the food readiness. That restaurant did not prepare to handle the Chinese New Year business. My sons kept saying no tips to that bad service. But the bill actually has already included tips. Tips is compulsory, not from your appreciation! And illegally, the sales tax is also added to the tips. (California law: Tips, gratuities, or service charges are optional and not included in taxable gross receipts) Many restaurant in the Bay Area also do the same. Not sure who will receive the additional "tax" from tips? We just didn't want to get upset at the festival family dinner. Let it go...

4.5Star Jade Tea Garden

Jade Tea Garden offers a delightful dining experience with some standout features and a few areas for improvement.

What Shines: (+) Tea Excellence: The tea served here is superb—no tea bags, just pure, high-quality brews. (+) Outstanding Service: The staff is warm, attentive, and friendly, making you feel valued. (+) Din Sum Exquisiteness: The dim sums are delicious, fresh, and flavorful, showcasing authentic craftsmanship. (+) Contemporary Ambiance: The modern decor, paired with large LED monitors, creates a unique atmosphere.

Room for Growth: (-) Peking Duck: While enjoyable, it falls short of the signature, unforgettable taste that distinguishes great Peking Duck. (-) Uncomfortable Seating: The square tables with intrusive bars beneath are awkward and detract from comfort. (-) Distracting LED Displays: The monitors, unfortunately, display constant advertisements, which feel out of place and diminish the otherwise elegant setting.

Overall: Jade Tea Garden is an inviting spot with great food and service, particularly for dim sum lovers. While the pricing is on the higher side, improved affordability could attract a wider crowd and elevate...