Kowloon Diner, which debuted in mid-September of last year, is causing a stir with the Phra Khanong and Ekkamai crowds, with some authentic and affordable dim sum—and you don’t have to go all the way to Yaowarat. 

 

The parlor is quaint and inviting, with neon green signage, old-school posters decorating the walls, and lanterns creating a Hong Kong diner ambiance.  

 

 

Dishes on offer include home-made dumplings, large rice noodle rolls, fluffy steamed or pan-fried buns, and other small meals, all of which make up more than three-quarters of the menu. Their xiaolongbao (B80) is a must-order. Their broth-filled dumplings might seem small, but they’re freshly steamed, ensuring the broth is filled and bursts with flavor with one bite. Eat it carefully, it’s hot! 

 

Their crystal shrimp dumplings (B75) are shrimp har gow with thin dumpling skin crammed with shrimp. Their fried pork and taro puffs (B75) are fluffy, lightly crisp, and filled with smooth taro and savory pork. There’s also the nostalgic BBQ pork rice rolls (B110) drenched in sweet soy sauce. Don’t forget to drench your dumplings with their in-house chili sauces for an added kick.  

 

 

 

For something spicier, their experimental dumplings like mala xiaolongbao and mala wontons pack a punch. There are also larger plates like dried noodles with char siu and wontons. Finish your meal with their steamed or fried salted egg lava bun (B65).    

 

 

Drinks-wise, instead of just reaching for a cold beer, give their house-brewed teas a shot, such as their oolong or chrysanthemum. Be sure to keep an eye on their Instagram as there are whispers of an expanding menu and possibly some dumpling workshops.