World-famous Taiwanese chain w/ signature soup dumplings & unique chocolate dessert XLB. Pricey but consistently delicious, w/ solid vegan options.
Renowned for its exquisite Taiwanese cuisine, this establishment is a global sensation, particularly celebrated for its delicate soup dumplings (Xiao Long Bao). Patrons rave about the unique dessert dumplings, especially the chocolate variant, and praise the flavorful noodle and wonton dishes. While some find it a bit pricey, the consistent quality and diverse menu, including vegan options, make it a popular choice for a satisfying meal.
The restaurant is celebrated for its Taiwanese cuisine, with a particular emphasis on its signature Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings). Many users rave about the unique chocolate XLB for dessert, and other popular items include spicy wontons, various noodle dishes, pork chop fried rice, and string beans. While most reviews are positive, some find the XLB to be bland or lacking soup, and a few suggest that the NYC location may not be as exceptional as its international counterparts. Vegan options are also available and generally well-received.
"Highly recommended dishes include the signature Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), spicy wontons, chocolate mochi XLB for dessert, sesame noodles, pork chops, and cucumber salad. The chocolate XLB are frequently called out as a unique and delightful treat."
Customers generally have a positive view, praising the unique dessert dumplings and flavorful main dishes, though some note it can be pricey. There's a recurring theme of mixed opinions on whether it lives up to the hype compared to its international counterparts.
Important Note
Some diners feel the NYC location does not live up to the hype or the quality of international branches, finding it pricey or the dumplings bland. Reservations are highly recommended, as wait times can be significant, especially during peak hours.
"The user visited Din Tai Fung last Thursday around 12:30 PM for a party of two and did not have to wait. They found both the food and service disappointing and felt embarrassed to have brought a friend."
Negative"The user successfully made a reservation for 4 people at Din Tai Fung by checking every morning, not necessarily right at midnight, though they noted reservations fill up quickly."
Positive"The user expressed strong dissatisfaction with Din Tai Fung, stating it was not worth the visit, citing bad service and food."
Negative"The user stated that reservations for Din Tai Fung open 30 days in advance."
Neutral"The user expressed interest in learning more about Din Tai Fung."
Neutral"The user provided information about when reservations for Din Tai Fung become available."
Neutral"In reply to a comment about the NYC Din Tai Fung's vibe, the user agreed that the Times Square location has good art direction and atmosphere, but expressed a wish that the food quality matched the price and hype."
Neutral"Responding to a comment about the NYC Din Tai Fung, the user noted that while Asian locations have a mall-like atmosphere, the NYC branch has a cooler and more vibrant vibe."
Neutral"The user visited Din Tai Fung in NYC on a Saturday around noon and experienced a 45-minute wait. They found the food disappointing compared to international locations, noting the XLB were bland and soupy, and other dishes were average."
Negative"The user suggested that Din Tai Fung reservations open 30 days in advance and can be obtained by checking each morning."
Neutral"This commenter's toddler enjoyed Din Tai Fung, specifically the steamer baskets of dumplings, indicating a positive experience for young children."
Positive"This user confirms Din Tai Fung is fun with kids and mentions a new 'kids passport' program."
Positive"This dining establishment is suggested as a possibility for a team dinner, and a weeknight reservation might be obtainable."
Neutral"Din Tai Fung is recommended as an awesome restaurant for kids, featuring a glass-walled kitchen for entertainment and robots for delivery. The food is good, with plenty of vegetarian options."
Positive"The author suggests trying Din Tai Fung if one has the time and money to burn, implying it might be a pricier or more time-consuming experience."
Neutral"This comment confirms that Din Tai Fung is very good."
Positive"Din Tai Fung is mentioned as a chain restaurant that is considered 'yum' among dining recommendations near Times Square."
Positive"This user simply suggested Din Tai Fung as a dining option."
Positive"The user advises against Din Tai Fung, suggesting there are many other delicious dumpling places in NYC."
Negative"The user is considering Din Tai Fung as a more casual option and asks for a recommendation."
Neutral
