Big Dish

Welcome to Big Dish, a Chinese restaurant located at 339 9th St, Oakland, CA 94607, USA. Situated in the heart of Oakland's Chinatown, Big Dish has established itself as a favorite among locals for grabbing affordable and tasty dim sum and roasted meats to go. You can contact them at (510) 839-3188 or their mobile number +1 510-839-3188 for inquiries.

Based on customer reviews, Big Dish is a popular and often busy establishment, particularly known for its efficient service despite the crowds. The restaurant operates with a distinct setup featuring two separate lines. One line is specifically for purchasing the roasted meats that are visibly displayed hanging in the front window, while the other line is dedicated to dim sum orders. This clear separation helps to streamline the ordering process, although first-time visitors might find the signage a bit challenging to spot due to customer congestion. Despite the potential for initial confusion, the lines are reported to move at a good pace, indicating an efficient system for handling a high volume of customers.

In terms of services, Big Dish primarily functions as a takeout establishment. While there is "one long table with a few chairs along the wall" available inside, it appears to be more for customers who wish to briefly rest and eat their purchased food rather than a dedicated dine-in area. This "no-frills hole in the wall spot" emphasizes quick service and the convenience of enjoying their offerings elsewhere. The staff is consistently described as "helpful and friendly," with typically two to three people serving each of the two lines, ensuring that customers are attended to promptly.

A major feature of Big Dish is its dual focus on dim sum and roasted meats. Customers rave about the flavor and quality of their dim sum selection. Popular items frequently ordered include siu mai, chicken feet, tofu skin roll, baked char siu bao, and various fried dumplings, all of which are described as "so flavorful and tasty" that they do not require any additional sauces. Reviewers specifically note that the dim sum is well-seasoned, neither too salty nor too oily or fatty, indicating a balanced and delicious preparation. The baked char siu bao is particularly highlighted as a "thing of beauty" and a must-try item, with a generous filling and a good bun-to-meat ratio compared to other places.

While the dim sum receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, opinions on the roasted meats (such as roasted duck, soy sauce chicken, and roast pork) are more divided. One reviewer expressed a personal preference for the roasted meats from other establishments, finding the seasoning and flavor at Big Dish less appealing to their taste. However, they explicitly state that this is their personal opinion and acknowledge that others might still enjoy these offerings. Therefore, while dim sum appears to be a standout feature, Big Dish also provides a selection of roasted meats for those who prefer them.

Information regarding the environment of Big Dish suggests a functional, no-frills setting focused on efficiency for takeout. The "hole in the wall spot" description implies a basic and unpretentious ambiance, where the emphasis is on the food and value rather than elaborate decor or a spacious dining area. The presence of a single long table with a few chairs indicates a minimal provision for on-site consumption, reinforcing its primary role as a takeout location. Its location in Oakland's Chinatown makes it easily accessible to those in the area seeking authentic Chinese fare.

Currently, there is no specific promotional information available for Big Dish based on the provided customer reviews. There are no mentions of special deals, discounts, or combination offers. To inquire about any current promotions, seasonal specials, or catering options, it would be best to contact Big Dish directly at (510) 839-3188 or +1 510-839-3188. Given its popularity and focus on affordability, it's possible they offer regular value-oriented pricing rather than frequent promotions, but direct inquiry would be the most reliable way to obtain this information.

In conclusion, Big Dish in Oakland's Chinatown is a highly recommended spot for affordable and delicious dim sum to go. Its efficient two-line system caters to a busy clientele, and the friendly staff ensures a smooth ordering experience. Standout dim sum items like siu mai, chicken feet, tofu skin roll, baked char siu bao, and fried dumplings are praised for their flavor and quality. While opinions on the roasted meats may vary, the overall consensus points to Big Dish as a reliable and budget-friendly option for authentic Chinese takeout in Oakland. If you're in the area and craving flavorful dim sum or are curious about their roasted meat selection, Big Dish is definitely worth a visit. For any information on promotions or specific menu offerings, contacting them directly is advised.