Though we understand their circumstances may have been a bit different, like Oliver and his clan of orphan boys, we’ve all fallen into a daze dreaming of “food, glorious food” at one point or another.
After all, it’s been said that food is the great equalizer, connecting us and bringing us together, either with family or friends, colleagues or companions, or any others from all walks of life, to dine often at a communal table or gathering space wherein we share stories and reveal the most authentic parts of ourselves.
In our continued effort, however, to find our way into others’ hearts (and stomachs!), sometimes it helps to venture beyond our tables and into the kitchens of others — especially in a city with such a diversified abundance of eateries as New York.
And of course, you can’t spell “theatre” without “eat.”
So, in our food-based series, we continue to poll some of the Great Bright Way’s best to “dish” (get it?) on where they love to eat, drink, and take in the vibes either pre- or post-show, while also answering why they love to sup there, sharing a favorite dish or two, and more.
Today, we turn to Janae Hammond, currently managing mischief as Rose Granger-Weasley in the Tony-winning epic Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. With regional credits including Hairspray with Starlight Theatre Company, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Flat Rock Playhouse (North Carolina), and Catch Me If You Can, All Shook Up and My Fair Lady, all at the Tent Theatre, she’s also performed in Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular and The Little Mermaid, Seas the Adventure, both aboard the Disney Cruise Line. A proud graduate of Missouri State University, her stint in the wizarding world marks her Broadway debut.
But where does this wizard choose to Apparate when she has an appetite?
(334 W. 46th Street)
With a name whose literal translation means “to touch the heart,” Dim Sum Palace (here spotlighted in Hell’s Kitchen, but with a plethora of locations throughout the city) has specialized in “the timeless traditions” of authentic Cantonese cuisine since the franchise first opened in 2016. Offering exceptionally refined flavors and swift, attentive service in a warm and comfortable environment – all things one associates with a sophisticated and satisfying dining experience – “It’s a great place to bring friends and family, and it’s especially convenient to visit between shows,” says Hammond. “I love being able to order a variety of small dishes for the table.”
On the selection front, she continues, “I love being able to order a variety of small dishes for the table,” advising that “since dim sum is served in smaller portions, it’s the perfect opportunity to try something new.”
And “new” could include anything on their abundant, award-winning menu. (Note that in lieu of traditional dim sum delivery from rolling carts, customers order directly off the menu by checking boxes with a marker.) “I always order their BBQ pork buns, and cucumber appetizer,” suggests Hammond, the latter swimming in a spicy Schezuan sauce. “The pork buns are incredibly soft and warm, while the cucumbers have the perfect level of spice… which is perfect for me, since I can't handle food that's too, too hot.”
If the BBQ pork flavor doesn’t float your boat, no need to drag out the Sorting Hat for alternatives, as the combined dim sum and main menus present 26 dumpling options overall, from steamed to fried and savory to sweet.
Customers also rave about the pleasantly plump har gow – steamed shrimp dumplings with a pleated wrapper that visually resembles a clam shell – and the Seafood Peashoot Dumplings – “they taste better [when] fresh from the kitchen anyway [versus a cart]” according to one review – noted for their sweet-and-saltiness, offset by the bitterness of the titular vegetable, in addition to the signature Shredded Roast Duck dumplings.
Hammond also shouts out their unmissable scallion pancakes – “the perfect combination of crispy and greasy” – and their “amazing soup dumplings,” filled with a rich, savory broth, and available in pork and chicken varieties.
And, to top it off, there’s a full bar, and drinks, including white wine, red wine, sake & beer, are all 50% off from 11am-5pm on weekdays.
So, if you’re looking for a deliciously decadent meal, it’s time to say, “accio Dim Sum Palace, please!”
Dim Sum Palace Hell’s Kitchen is open from 11:30am-1:30am on weekdays and from 10:30-1:30am on weekends. Dim Sum is served ‘til closing 7 days a week.
We’ll continue to present a new performer with new restaurants and new menus, so keep checking back to see who we poll and what’s on their mind at mealtime! Until next time, as always, bon appétit!
