MaMa Ji's

Millbrae and the Outer Richmond are definitely dim sum epicenters. The Castro? Not so much. Well, that is unless you're at Mama Ji’s, home to outstanding Shanghai Xiao Long Bao dumplings and handmade pulled rice rolls. Of particular note are the crispy-on-the-outside and pillowy-centered seared Pumpkin Cakes that are really deep-fried pumpkins filled with red bean paste that taste like autumn in a bite. Dim sum rules at lunch and takes up much of the dinner menu—including Szechuan classics (where chef/owner Mama Ji is from) offered as dim sum, like the gigantic, palate-numbing plate of spicy cold noodles. And you can always enjoy Belgian beers on tap.
How to enjoy: Walk-ins only. Order pickup and delivery via Caviar.