First Emperor

Though Kirin Court (deservedly) gets a lot of the attention for its dim sum in Richardson, there’s a tiny little spot across the street with some of the tastiest Chinese food in all of North Texas—and rarely any wait. Try the signature Sesame Cake to share (a dense, layered bread loaded with sesame seeds and amazing alongside a family-sized bowl of Hot & Sour Soup). Then move onto dishes that go beyond the typical Chinese-American offerings. Favorites include the simple-yet-incredible Salt-and-Pepper Fried Fish, Shredded Pork with Leeks, and Tea-smoked Duck with Pancake.
How to support: Stop by for first come, first served seating.