Bret and I always end up back at Diamond Jamboree. Who can blame us, though? It’s a stone’s throw away from Bret’s office, right off the freeway for me, and we seem to stumble upon something new to end our diets every time (we’re not actually on diets because, you know, they don’t actually work, but you get what I’m trying to say). 

We lead busy lives, but it’s funny how quick a plan can come together when dumplings are involved. We had to reschedule once or twice, but we found ourselves seated for lunch at Paper Lantern Dumpling House not too long after the thought to go was conceived. The more we looked around, the more warm and comfortable we felt, even with the sleek, modern decoration. Sitting near a window, we watched people idly pass by and go about their day, acting like they weren’t only feet away from the sweet embrace of dumplings. 

Bret’s Tea (Bret Kavanaugh)

These were to be the main event, of course, but there were a few opening acts that were determined to make their impression. The first, surprisingly enough, wasn’t a food item at all. Rather, it was a cup of fresh, warm chrysanthemum tea Bret ordered to start things off. The sight of what looked like small bulbs floating in the cup was confusing at first, but a closer inspection cleared things up. You see, over a couple dozen of the little chrysanthemum flowers were floating in the tea and blooming as time went on, which made us that much more optimistic. It tasted even more refreshing than it looked, and each sip brought a wave of calm along with it. It was light on the tongue, but it made a statement nonetheless. 

After a bit, we elected to put the rest of the tea to the side, agreeing it might pair well with our food. First to the table was an enticing bowl of egg soup, which greeted us with a pleasant and balanced visual before we even got to know how it tasted. Once Bret took the first spoonful, though, they noted that the theme of balance remained strong. Savory notes came in waves, as did umami, and while the right amounts of salt and seasoning were probably the root of the savory taste, the source of the latter was a mystery until we found pieces of shrimp in our later bites. The chives played their part beautifully as well, and the chef was careful to ensure they didn’t bring an overwhelming flavor. 

Since it’s in the name, though, it only made sense that the real star of the show was the lacy and perfectly cooked egg, offering a satisfying texture and a great deal of heartiness to the dish. Not to say it felt unhealthy by any means; in fact, I almost felt like I lost weight while eating it. It’s a filling dish on its own, yes, but it wouldn’t hurt to pair it with another appetizer, or even a main dish, if you have the stomach space. 

Beef Wrap (An. H)

How do we know it pairs well, you ask? Well, we paired it. Coming in to help us put our theory to the test, I had a good feeling the scallion pancakes would be making a case for themselves, and by God did they do exactly that. The first thing I noticed was a smattering of darker, crispy spots atop the light, flaky outside, which clued me into the texture variety I’d enjoy upon munching. I could see the scallions peeking at me from behind the pancake; with no mercy, I tore into their warm home and took a generous bite. A light crunch was the first sensation I noted, followed by a fresh, savory, soft pancake that evoked images of clouds in my mind. Alternating between bites of pancake and spoonfuls of soup, I felt like I found the perfect harmony. This was exactly when I remembered the tea, still warm and ready to be enjoyed. As I guessed, even though a cold tea might have paired better with warm food, the refreshing sensation of the tea was an ideal palate cleanser. 

Last — but perhaps most, rather than the least — an order of steamed shrimp and pork dumplings landed on the table to catch my heart in less than an instant. The song “Can’t Believe the Way We Flow” started playing in my head. I noticed the shrimp, looking straight out of an advertisement, nestled on top of what I presumed was some equally beautiful pork, and the song in my head grew steadily louder. I reached for my chopsticks, took the one closest to me, and let it fall into my mouth whole. The song in my head erupted into glorious crescendo as I bit down. Nothing else mattered. The soup rushed in like a tidal wave, bringing some of the best pork I’ve ever had along with it. All that, teamed up with the umami brought by the shrimp … it was almost too much to handle. Almost.

Pork dumplings (Christian/Yelp)

The dumplings even lasted the 90-minute journey with me to the recording studio later that day, where my friends dug in and had nearly the same reaction. We didn’t have a microwave, or any other way to heat them, by the way. Even lukewarm, their power is nothing to be ignored. Obviously we recommend eating them fresh, but if life comes at you fast, just know these descendants of the Flavor Gods will help you slow things back down, as will any of the culinary blessings we were given at that table. 

If there’s anything I should note at this point, it’s that this might not be the best spot for your vegetarian friends, since there’s only one noodle dish, one dumpling option, and three appetizers for them to choose from. It’s also unclear whether any of these options are vegan, but it never hurts to be safe and ask.

You can learn more about them, check out their menu, and get directions on their website.

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