"Nomad Tea Parlour serves ambitious Cantonese American food in a big space that looks like an old-school Hong Kong movie set. It’s a little upscale—we’ve seen a dog here wearing a Gucci leash—but nothing too formal, and it’s perfect for a family-style meal that’ll run you around $50 per person. Up front, there’s a 14-seat bar under a big striped awning, and in the back you'll find a bi-level dining room where groups share plates of walnut shrimp and lobster yee mein. Skip the stuffed squid and chili-fried beef—too salty and too sweet, respectively—and focus on the curry-infused singapore fried rice and pillowy glazed pork belly tossed with quail eggs. This place also does dim sum (no carts, unfortunately), and you should order at least one thing from that section of the menu. Try the oversized siu mai wearing little abalone hats, and pair them with the cocktail that comes with a thick head of coffee foam. photo credit: Nomad Tea Parlour Food Rundown photo credit: Simon Leung Hawthorne Braised Pork Belly A thing of beauty. The tender, braised pork belly is sweet, but not too sweet, and glossy as a candy apple. For some variety, there are a bunch of bite-sized quail eggs tossed in. photo credit: Simon Leung Singapore Duck Fried Rice The key is in the curry powder. It’s mixed into the fluffy fried rice, but doesn’t take over the dish—just gives it a nice accent. We wish there were a little more duck, but still, a reliable order. Always get this for the table. photo credit: Simon Leung Night Market Clams A surprisingly large pile of clams tossed in a thick black bean sauce. The dish isn’t essential, but it’s good, simple, and perfect for sharing. photo credit: Simon Leung Walnut Shrimp Exactly what you expect, and just what you need. These shrimp are cooked well—still plump and juicy—with light breading and plenty of sweet, mayo-heavy sauce." - Bryan Kim
