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Dim Sum Dynasty

Columns Veg'n Out

January 6, 2013

Story By: Terri Hefner | Photos by: Leah Friel

Dim sum can be so delectable, and it’s so much fun to eat. But going out for dim sum can be somewhat of a guessing game. Unless the restaurant proclaims itself vegetarian, you don’t really know what’s inside those mysterious little parcels.

You can ask your server for information, but they may rely on what they’ve been told by the kitchen and might not be aware if a bit of meat or fish finds its way into the recipe. Sure, spinach dumplings may sound harmless, but who knows what’s lurking inside? And, if you’ve never dined at the establishment before, there’s no guarantee that there will be any meat-free dim sum available at all.

But don’t despair. Carnivores don’t always rule.

Jade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, conveniently located in Ala Moana Center, keeps vegetarians in mind, and manager Thomas Lung recommends three small-plate delights. There’s Garlic Cucumber ($7.95), in which fresh, crisp cucumber is chopped and laced with flavorful garlic. Deep Fried Bean Curd Rolls ($7.95) are filled with savory mushrooms, fungus and carrots. Both are served, says Lung, with a “special sauce.”

And now, the piece de resistance: Spring Mountain Coconut Buns ($2.95). What an intriguing name! Available only from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., the green tea-colored, sweet coconut-filled buns are a customer favorite and have become legend with Jade Dynasty fans.

Looking for more? You’ll find a variety of meat-free dishes on the extensive menu, so anyone can feel like an emperor at Jade Dynasty.

Jade Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Ala Moana Center
947.8818
Open daily, 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Honolulu, HI 96814

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