Dim Sum Darling

- 135 W 50th St, New York, NY 10020

Introduction / Overview

New York City's culinary landscape is a dynamic and ever-evolving tapestry of global flavors, and finding a place that combines authenticity, quality, and a welcoming atmosphere is a true delight. Dim Sum Darling, located within the bustling Urban Hawker food hall, is a shining example of this. This establishment stands out not just for its delicious Chinese comfort food, but also for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, proudly identifying as a women-owned and Asian-owned business. It provides a modern take on timeless classics, offering small plates that are perfect for a quick bite or a full, satisfying meal. The menu is designed to cater to a wide range of tastes, featuring a variety of options including Halal food, vegan and vegetarian choices, and a full bar with cocktails and wine. Customers consistently praise the food for being flavorful, fulfilling, and served with a genuine sense of hospitality. A customer review specifically highlights the "Empress Chicken and Dumplings" as being "really good," and gives full points for the hospitality of the staff. The restaurant is a great spot for various occasions, whether you're grabbing lunch, enjoying a family dinner, or seeking a comfortable place for solo dining. It also prides itself on creating a welcoming environment for everyone, being noted as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space. This focus on both exceptional food and an inclusive community feel sets Dim Sum Darling apart from the crowd, making it a valuable addition to the Midtown dining scene and a must-visit for anyone looking for a great Chinese meal.

Location and Accessibility

Dim Sum Darling is uniquely situated at 135 W 50th Street, New York, NY 10020, USA, within the acclaimed Urban Hawker food hall. This location is a major advantage, placing it in one of the most vibrant and accessible parts of Midtown Manhattan. The building at 135 W 50th Street is a hub of corporate and tourist activity, making it a convenient stop for a quick and high-quality meal. The presence within a food hall provides a distinct and dynamic dining experience, with plenty of seating options both at the counter and in shared dining areas. The area is a nexus of public transportation, with numerous subway lines and bus routes stopping just a few steps away, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city. The amenities within the food hall, such as restrooms and free Wi-Fi, add to the overall convenience for diners. For those who prefer to eat at home or in the office, Dim Sum Darling offers multiple service options, including no-contact delivery, standard delivery, and takeout. The physical space is designed to be accessible, with a gender-neutral restroom and ample seating that is good for families and groups. This combination of a central, well-connected location and a variety of service options ensures that Dim Sum Darling is a highly accessible and accommodating choice for a wide range of customers.

Services Offered

• Dine-in (seating available)
• Counter service
• Takeout
• Delivery
• No-contact delivery
• Brunch, lunch, and dinner service
• Catering

Features / Highlights

• Diverse and Flavorful Menu: Dim Sum Darling offers a menu of delicious Chinese comfort food with a focus on small plates. Signature dishes include the Darling Bowl, Meat Supreme Bowl, and a variety of dumplings. The food is praised for being "flavorful, just the right amount of spiciness," and "very fulfilling."
• Inclusive and Diverse Offerings: The restaurant caters to a wide audience with options such as Halal food, vegan options, and vegetarian dishes. This commitment to meeting various dietary needs is a significant highlight.
• Full Bar and Happy Hour: Diners can enjoy a full selection of beverages, including alcohol, beer, cocktails, hard liquor, and wine. The presence of happy hour food and drink specials makes it a great spot for a social outing after work.
• Welcoming and Safe Space: Dim Sum Darling is noted as being LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space. This creates a comfortable and inclusive environment for all guests, a quality that is highly valued by New Yorkers.
• Exceptional Staff: Customer reviews consistently highlight the friendliness and kindness of the staff. A specific review praises an employee named Eve for being "very friendly and kind," and another review thanks an employee for going above and beyond to honor a promotional offer.
• Amenities for Comfort: The restaurant offers a number of amenities, including a bar on-site, a restroom, and free Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable and convenient place to dine. It is also good for kids, offering a kids' menu and high chairs for families.

Contact Information

Address: 135 W 50th St, New York, NY 10020, USA

Phone: (917) 994-6251

What is worth choosing

For New Yorkers and visitors looking for a memorable Chinese dining experience, Dim Sum Darling is a top-tier choice for several key reasons. First and foremost is the quality of the food. The dishes are consistently praised for their authentic and rich flavors, offering a genuinely satisfying meal that feels both comforting and elevated. The "Empress Chicken and Dumplings" are specifically highlighted as excellent, showcasing the restaurant’s ability to execute classic dishes with precision. The food is made to be "very fulfilling and warm," making it perfect for a delicious escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The range of offerings is another major selling point. With a menu that includes vegan, vegetarian, and Halal options, Dim Sum Darling ensures that it can accommodate a wide array of dietary needs and preferences, a quality that is highly appreciated in a diverse city like New York. The availability of "small plates" also makes it an ideal spot for sharing and trying different items from the menu, adding to the overall experience. The positive and inclusive atmosphere is also a significant reason to visit. The restaurant's dedication to being an LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, along with the friendly and kind staff, creates a dining environment that is not just welcoming, but genuinely supportive. This is a rare and valuable quality in the fast-paced world of New York City dining. The combination of great food, an accommodating menu, and a positive atmosphere makes Dim Sum Darling a standout choice. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or even a happy hour, you can expect a high-quality meal served with a personal touch that leaves a lasting positive impression. It's an excellent destination for anyone who values a business that is as committed to its community as it is to its cuisine.

Dim Sum Darling

135 W 50th St, New York, NY 10020, USA