Ocean Bo Dim Sum Cafe

Ocean Bo Masters the Art of Dim Sum in El Monte | Eater LA

"What it lacks in rolling dim sum carts and velvet-draped dining rooms, this family-run spot makes up for in consistent dishes at reasonable prices. For almost two decades, it has been a gathering place for special occasions and holiday brunches with steamer baskets that brim with dumplings. You can order the dim sum to-go, like at a doughnut counter, or pull up a chair in the dining room; either way, this yum cha can compete with any other dim sum destination in the San Gabriel Valley. Shu mai is a given, freshly steamed with pork, shrimp, and mushrooms. The shrimp seaweed roll—a shrimp cake wrapped in seaweed, dipped in batter, and fried—is not often found at other dim sum restaurants and delivers an ideal briny, salty, crackling bite, so don’t miss it. Baked pineapple buns get crowned with a sugar crust; the plush dough gives way to a sweet and sticky custard center that I prefer for dessert to the flaky egg tarts (though you might as well get both). Char siu sou riffs on traditional char siu bao by encasing barbecue pork in a triangle of flaky pastry topped with sesame seeds. It’s best to visit with a crew of four or more to snag a center table with a lazy Susan and order more—loading it up and bouncing between sweet and savory completes the experience. Insider tip: after 4 p.m., dim sum items left over from the morning rush are half off, so stock up on char siu baos and egg tarts (they freeze really well)." - Kat Thompson

Best Dim Sum Restaurants in Los Angeles | Eater LA

"Service is fast, and the dim sum is fresh at Ocean Bo. Dim sum is sold behind the counter and is served with such efficiency that the long lines move quickly. There’s also a picture menu for those who need help ordering. Find pineapple barbecue pork buns, coconut and taro cake, garlic spare ribs, and deep-fried taro pastries, among a long list of favorites." - Kristie Hang

The 22 Essential Dim Sum Restaurants in Los Angeles

"Service is fast and the dim sum is fresh at Ocean Bo. Dim sum is sold behind the counter and is served with such efficiency that the long lines move quickly. There’s also a picture menu for those who need help ordering. Find pineapple barbecue pork buns, coconut and taro cake, garlic spare ribs, deep-fried taro pastries, among a long list of favorites." - Kristie Hang

Counter-service efficiency with a lengthy menu of steamed, baked, and fried favorites—pineapple BBQ pork buns, taro pastries, and rice rolls keep lines moving. Included on Eater LA’s list as a quick, satisfying SGV standby.