There’s no preening or puffery necessary at Li Wah. The Asia Plaza eatery cuts right to the chase — a place filled with good conversation and tasty food. The dining room is vast, so grab one of the small two-seater tables against the left wall from the door on a Saturday afternoon. They’re the perfect spot to get to know each other quickly, sip from a pot of complimentary jasmine tea and try to decipher the multilingual menagerie around you. Better yet, Li Wah is a point-and-eat adventure. Wave down one of the army of waiters pushing the dim sum carts and point out three or four small plates you’d like to try such as savory siu mai dumplings or, if you’re feeling adventurous, crispy fried chicken feet. Still hungry? Pick again. “You are always expected to share,” says Ed Hom, Li Wah’s manager and son of the owner. “It is considered rude that this plate is mine and that plate is yours.” 2999 Payne Ave., Suite 102, Cleveland, 216-696-6556, liwahrestaurant.com
After: Find a crazy collection of Hello Kitty dolls, Buddha statues, maneki-neko figurines and other conversation pieces at R & R Gift Shop just outside the restaurant door. 2999 Payne Ave., Suite 122, Cleveland, 216-771-0088 #Culture #Foodie #Inexpensive
Date Night: Do Dim Sum At Li Wah Restaurant
Double up on these savory dumplings.
