Chinatown Dim Sum - alternative to Oriental Garden?

[silverlainy]

My mom is visiting and I want to take her to dim sum. She's Cantonese so looking for the most authentic spot. She is getting dropped off in manhattan chinatown and we only have time to stay in the area. It will be early so waits should not be a problem.

I know this has been debated in the past but I'm just wondering if anywhere new could replace my go-to spot Oriental Garden. I have tried Ping's and the huge ballroom banquet place by the bridge (forget the name) which were fine but I always end up back at OG. Also I really dislike Jing Fong. I have heard good things about Red Egg - was not impressed with their "fusion" at dinner but perhaps the dim sum is better?

Thanks!

[windycity]

I went to Red Egg and think it's slightly pricey for what it is. Your best bet is to go to Dim Sumo Go Go early or Ping's (though I haven't been to Ping's in a while.) Go Go doesn't have carts, it's all a la carte off the menu.

[City Kid]

If it is early, as you say, you might take a chance on Red Egg during happy hour (4-8 PM, M-F) when the extensive dim sum menu is half price and drinks are 2 for 1 (in the lounge upfront where there are a couple of booths and a few long, curving communal tables). I happen to love the place, though I hasten to add that I am no authority on dim sum.

[kathryn]

Red Egg is pretty good, I'd say maybe a little bit better than Oriental Garden. Their dim sum does have a fusion section but it's pretty easy to steer clear of it. The room is pretty attractive and modern, as well. But overall I'd say Chinatown Brasserie has better dim sum.

[silverlainy]

How do prices/portions compare for Red Egg and OG? My mom would not be pleased with trendy overpriced dim sum so def not Chinatown Brasserie...

[buttertart]

Red Egg is definitely trendy and somewhat expensive. We don't eat dim sum that often so really don't have a suggestion - but I would not go to Red Egg if trendiness is a concern.