China Pearl Restaurant   

If long lines are a testament to good food, the China Pearl in Chinatown cannot be overlooked, especially during its midday rush for Dim Sum. During peak weekend brunches, the wait can be up to an hour for the exotic experience, though don't be discouraged -- the line moves rather quickly. China Pearl is a bit offbeat and funky; half the fun of visiting is pure anticipation, between waiting in line with friends, walking the long staircase, and finally reaching the gaudy red and gold dining room to be immersed in the hustle and bustle of waitstaff wheeling metal carts stacked high with exotic dishes and bamboo steamers that contain a variety of dumplings filled with pork, seafood, and veggies. This is a great way to sample a variety of dishes very quickly and at reasonable prices (typically $2 to $6 an item). After the Dim Sum rush, it's on to dinner, and the China Pearl settles down just a tad offering a full menu of meat, seafood, and vegetarian-based Chinese entrees, including favorites such as General Gau's Chicken and Lobster Chinese Style, along with a wide range of alcoholic beverages to go with.