Crystal Palace - Fine Dim Sum and Chinese Restaurant

Located in the heart of Monterey Park at 555 N Atlantic Blvd, Crystal Palace - Fine Dim Sum and Chinese Restaurant delivers a refined yet inviting take on Cantonese cuisine, especially renowned for its expertly crafted dim sum offerings. Formerly known as Chef Tony, this establishment has seamlessly blended tradition with innovation, creating a dining experience that both delights and surprises.

From the moment you step inside, the atmosphere hums with lively energy that captures the authentic Cantonese yum cha spirit—bustling yet warmly welcoming. The space accommodates everything from casual family brunches to intimate business dinners, with private rooms available for special occasions, ensuring every visit feels personalized.

The menu is an adventurous journey through classic and contemporary Chinese flavors. Start with the iconic pan fried shrimp & pork pandan buns, their delicate exterior contrasting beautifully with the savory, aromatic filling. The steamed chicken feet in brown sauce (酱汁蒸凤爪) are tender and richly infused with umami, a true dim sum staple elevated here to glossy perfection. Don’t miss the abalone sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf (鲍鱼糯米鸡)—a dish bursting with fragrant, comforting notes, though some diners may find the abalone flavor more subtle than expected.

Seafood lovers will appreciate dishes like the braised scallop with XO sauce and crispy honey walnut shrimp, where the textures harmonize from tender to crispy, and the balance of sweet and savory flavors captivates every bite. The inventive Squid Ink Pasta with Seafood offers a unique twist, injecting the menu with a modern flair.

Dim sum devotees will find classics executed with care: the pork xiao long bao (上海小笼包) steaming with juicy, meaty broth, the steamed BBQ pork buns (蚝皇叉烧包) boasting a luscious, slightly sweet filling, and the deep fried sesame balls (芝麻煎堆) that crackle with a perfect golden crust hiding a sweet surprise inside.

The dessert selection continues the imaginative trend, featuring exquisite treats like the silky coconut bunny pudding (椰汁兔子糕) and the decadently rich steamed lava salted egg yolk bun with gold foil—a visual and gastronomic delight.

The beverage lineup complements the food thoughtfully, offering everything from Perrier and Evian mineral waters to traditional teas, providing clean, refreshing palate cleansers between the flavorful courses.

Customer feedback reflects a sincere appreciation for the restaurant’s aspirations and creativity, even if some elements, such as abalone presence in sticky rice or scallops in shumai, didn’t fully meet expectations for all guests. Still, many praise the warm hospitality and attentive service, which elevate the overall dining experience. The staff’s engagement and announcements add to the charm, creating a vibrant yet comfortable scene where guests feel at home.

Whether you’re new to dim sum or a seasoned enthusiast, Crystal Palace offers a compelling fusion of quality ingredients, inventive dishes, and an authentic Cantonese ambiance. It’s a place to savor familiar favorites while exploring bold new flavors—all within the welcoming heart of Monterey Park’s vibrant Chinese culinary scene.