A Family Recipe and a Culinary Lineage
Chef Shizhou Da's culinary heritage is deeply rooted in the history of Xiao Long Bao, the iconic soup dumplings. She is the fifth-generation descendant of the original chef who is credited with creating the very first Xiao Long Bao in China. With over 30 years of experience, she brought her authentic recipe and expertise to the United States in 2003. Her daughter, Chef Sally Song, joined her in 2008, and together, they opened the first Dim Sum Garden, quickly gaining a devoted following.
The American Dream, One Dumpling at a Time:
Shizhou and Sally's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of the American Dream. They started small, cooking in a modest storefront on 11th Street, and through hard work and dedication, built Dim Sum Garden into one of Philadelphia's most popular restaurants. Their story is an inspiration, showcasing the contributions of immigrant chefs to the city's vibrant culinary landscape.
A New Chapter and Expanded Horizons:
The move to 1024 Race Street marks a significant milestone for Shizhou and Sally. The new location, a $2.7 million building purchase, is double the size of their previous space and features two dining rooms, a full bar, and expanded kitchen facilities. This expansion allows them to serve more customers and expand their wholesale dumpling operation, which currently produces over one million soup dumplings annually.
Passing Down the Tradition:
"When I was a child, my mother told me that women who know how to cook will be happy when they grow up," shares Sally Song. "I now understand what my mother meant. Your happiness lies in your own hands." Sally is carrying on her mother's legacy, mastering the traditional techniques while embracing new opportunities in their expanded space. The mother-daughter duo is carrying on the family tradition.
Conclusion:
The grand opening of Dim Sum Garden's new location celebrates Shizhou Da and Sally Song's culinary journey, dedication to their craft, and contribution to Philadelphia's vibrant food scene. Their story reminds us that the American Dream is still alive and well and that food can be a powerful bridge between cultures and generations.