Y Ben House Retreat?

[JimboG]

I attempted to get an informative response to the question, "Where do the locals who frequented Y Ben House now go for early morning dim sum?" in the thread about the place closing (http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/8058...), and failed.

Here is another attempt.

When it was was still operating, there would easily have been 75-100 patrons inside when it opened very early in the morning. There is no way Dol Ho (across the street) could have absorbed them.

So, where do they go now?

Please give a definitive answer if you know.

Thanks.

[Chandavkl]

Many of the dim sum bakeries on Stockton, Jackson and Broadway open at 7 am, so I suspect they've absorbed the Y Ben House crowd, particularly since Y Ben House wasn't exactly gourmet stuff.

[JimboG]

But, those bakeries don't come close to offering the same social experience - even if their products are superior - having a leisurely breakfast - variety of items to eat - making choices one at a time, etc.

That is what those people will miss, and so will I.

[Robert Lauriston]

I suspect they've scattered among the other cheap nearby places open for breakfast, e.g. ABC, Washington Bakery, Great Oriental.

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ABC Bakery Cafe
650 Jackson St, San Francisco, CA 94133

Washington Bakery & Restaurant
733 Washington St, San Francisco, CA

Great Oriental
848 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94108

[JimboG]

Robert, I had the same thought. I don't think the places you mention do dim sum. Do you really think they gave up on dim sum at that hour? Is Dol Ho the only alternative? If it is, it must be VERY crowded. I may have to find out the hard way the next time I have an opportunity - next June.

[shanghaikid]

hing lung on broadway opens at 8 a.m. most days. no dim sum per se but they have excellent shrimp crepes (ha cheung) and outstanding congee (porridge), just a block away.

not sure if they still have the "special" 8 a.m. menu.

[JimboG]

I have been there (last June, I think - yes, there is a pattern here), and I believe they did have the "special" - choice of congee or noodle/soup dish and fried Chinese bread - which is very good and a great deal. Did not know about the ha cheung. Thanks for the tip.

Several years ago Lichee Garden was our go to place for early dim sum. It was very good and a nice atmosphere. Then, they stopped doing dim sum and/or early anything. We found out about Y Ben House which became the alternative. Now, it is closed.

Still, no early dim sum except Dol Ho?

[Robert Lauriston]

There are a few takeout places that open early. The You's on Broadway has a few tables.

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You's Dim Sum
675 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133