JUST BACK FROM China Pearl, in Boston’s Chinatown

The venue for the opening event at Discover New England Tourism forum 2025, China Pearl, located in Boston’s vibrant Chinatown at 9 Tyler Street, is one of Boston’s oldest and most beloved Chinese restaurants, renowned for its dim sum and traditional Cantonese cuisine.

After a temporary closure in 2020, it reopened in early 2024 with renovations that modernise the space while preserving its nostalgic charm. Here’s what visitors can expect, along with its signature dishes:

The revamped China Pearl blends contemporary design with its classic roots. Expect a spacious, multi-level dining area with clean lines, modern decor, and a nod to its heritage through subtle Chinese accents. The second-floor banquet hall, a longtime favorite for weddings and events, retains its festive appeal. The vibe is bustling yet welcoming, especially during peak dim sum hours.

Euphemistically described as being “known for efficiency over warmth,” the staff keep things moving—dim sum carts roll swiftly, and orders are fulfilled with practiced speed. It’s not overly polished, but the focus is on feeding you well, not coddling you. Language barriers may pop up, but pointing at carts or menu items works just fine.

Weekends bring queues, especially for brunch, so arrive early (doors open at 8:30 AM) to snag a table. Weekdays are calmer, ideal for a leisurely meal. The restaurant operates daily from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM, offering dim sum until around 3 PM and a full dinner menu after.

Dim sum is the star—carts weave through tables laden with steaming bamboo baskets and plates, offering a tactile, choose-as-you-go adventure. For dinner, it’s a more standard sit-down affair with an extensive menu. The reopened space feels fresher, but the soul of this Chinatown staple shines through in its food and community feel.

The menu spans hundreds of items, from fried rice and noodle dishes to seafood and veggie options, ensuring something for everyone. Dim sum carts don’t always carry every dish, so ask if you’re hunting a specific bite.

Prices are reasonable—dim sum dishes typically range from $4 to $7, while entrees hover between $12 and $20, with lobster priced by weight. It’s a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Since reopening, China Pearl offers delivery and takeout, though the in-person dim sum cart experience is the draw.

Visitors can expect a lively, no-frills dive into authentic Cantonese fare, where the food—especially the dim sum—steals the show. It’s a place where tradition meets a refreshed setting, perfect for groups, families, or anyone craving a taste of Boston’s Chinatown legacy. Bring an appetite and a willingness to point at what looks good—you won’t leave hungry.

Lobster of couorse. Delegates for the Destination New England tourism forum gathered at the China Pearl Restaurant in Boston’s Chinatown.

Dim Sum Favorites:

Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings): Translucent, paper-thin wrappers encase plump, juicy shrimp—a benchmark of Cantonese dim sum. While some note they can be slightly dry here, they remain a must-try.
Siu Mai (Pork and Shrimp Dumplings): Open-faced dumplings packed with a savory mix of pork, shrimp, and sometimes mushroom, praised for their hearty flavor.
Cheung Fun (Steamed Rice Rolls with Shrimp): Silky rice noodle rolls stuffed with shrimp and drizzled with soy sauce—light, slippery, and a crowd-pleaser.
Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf: Fragrant glutinous rice wrapped in lotus leaves, studded with bits of sausage, chicken, or pork—unwrap it for a steamy, aromatic treat.
Chicken Feet: Braised until tender with a glossy, garlicky sauce, these are a polarizing delight for adventurous eaters.

Delegates for the Destination New England tourism forum gathered at the China Pearl Restaurant in Boston’s Chinatown, there to greet them were Nik Pereira, Martha Sheridan and Dave O’Donnell of Meet Boston

Dinner Standouts:

Roast Duck and BBQ Pork Rice Platter: A Chinatown classic—crisp-skinned duck and sweet-salty char siu pork over rice, often paired with a side of hot sauce for kick.
Lobster with Ginger and Scallion: Fresh lobster stir-fried with aromatic ginger and green onions, a luxurious staple that nods to New England’s seafood bounty.
Salt and Pepper Calamari: Lightly fried squid tossed with salt, pepper, and chili—a crispy, addictive appetiser that balances spice and texture.
Beef Chow Fun: Wide, flat rice noodles stir-fried with tender beef and bean sprouts in a smoky wok hei finish—simple but soul-satisfying.
Congee with Century Egg and You Tiao: Creamy rice porridge with preserved egg and crispy fried dough sticks—a comforting breakfast or late-night option.