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    Gourmet Inspirations

    4.0 (492 reviews)
    ModerateDim Sum, Cantonese

    Order Gourmet Inspirations Takeout

    Gourmet Inspirations Photos

    GOURMET INSPIRATIONS ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for groups
    Good for kids

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    Mary C.

    My husband used to go to this place when he was young and, we finally went together to try it for the first time! The dim sum at this place is pretty good, but there are some drawbacks. Parking is a major issue. They have a small number of parking spaces right in front of the restaurant, so most people have to park in a nearby public lot, which requires payment. On the positive side, the BBQ pork buns were delicious and definitely a highlight. Unfortunately, the fried rice was a big letdown and not something I'd recommend. Overall, if you can deal with the parking situation, the dim sum, especially the BBQ pork buns, is worth trying. Just skip the fried rice.

    A5. Fried Shrimp Balls
    Vy T.

    A great spot to hit if you want Dim Sum. The restaurant size is large and will likely be able to accommodate a big family. Dim sum dishes are good; I particularly like the ones with shrimp wrapped in a steamed rice noodle and the fried ones.

    Chris C.

    Revisiting Gourmet Inspirations today for dim sum and have to say that for the first time I was very disappointed. Both the atmosphere and food quality have gone downhill. While the staff was still friendly and helpful, it doesn't compensate for the fact that there was much less variety of dim sum and half the dishes were cold when they were supposed to be hot. They still have the push carts but they didn't come around as often and when they didn't there was hardly any selection. One of my old favorites, the leaf wrapped sticky rice chicken was so tasteless with hardly any filling, just mostly rice which was half cooked and dry. Used to be there's at least be spring rolls on the carts but now you have to order that like just about everything else. They might as well do away with the carts in which case at least the food would be fresher and hotter. Too bad as this used to be one of my favorite dim sum venues even though it's not in my neighborhood.

    Joshua W.

    Gourmet Inspirations is THE dim sum place in Wheaton. It's often packed, and getting in can sometimes be challenging. The inside is a crowded area of tables, through which carts of food wander almost non stop. Many of your typical fare, depending on time, will be on the carts, from bao and pork buns to chicken feet and Chinese broccoli. They're all very good, and I've never had a disappointing tray (though I hate the sticky rice stuffed with canned sausages -- that's just me). I don't think I'd say the place is classy, and it can be a little loud. Paper plates and plastic cups aren't exactly high dining. But, the food makes up for it. And it's reasonably priced. If you're in the area for a dim sum brunch and the line isn't too long, stop in.

    Hannah H.

    We decided to give Gourmet Inspirations a try for their dim sum. We were greeted and welcomed warmly, which was super nice! On the other hand, that's where it kind of comes to a screeching halt, because once you're seated, you're kind of 'forgotten'. And, no, it just wasn't our table. When the dim sum carts come out of the kitchen, the servers only stop by the two larger tables with the larger parties that are located by the kitchen doors - the rest of the dining room never even gets a chance to check out what is being offered. When the carts do make their way over to the rest of the space, they're the dishes that no one really cares for - like, I'm waiting for the har gow, man! If you order a dish off the menu, such as the chow fun, you get that at a decent time - and, their chow fun is actually really tasty, adding some soy sauce and the chili oil that's already at the table. Ordering off the menu also ensures that it's hot and fresh, but if you order the same exact dish off the dim sum cart, it's not as hot and the noodles are already sticky (because, again, they've been 'stuck' at the larger tables). There was one older gentleman customer who got really fed up, and he actually got out of his seat to grab the attention from one of the servers - since the dining room was kind of loud, the server didn't hear him; he actually squawked loudly - it was a bit uncomfortable, but, honestly, we were all feeling the same frustration. There were a number of waitstaff, and when tables were waving them down and asking for more dim sum options, the response is all the same - 'It's being made right now' or 'It's coming out soon'. One of the management individuals did stop by our table a few types, being apologetic, and asking if there were any specific dishes we were looking for; he stated he would put them in, but we never got them - he would return again, apologizing, saying that the kitchen is backed up, then stating that there are no excuses... but, this really isn't resolving anything? We did try the har gow (this actually wasn't filled with 'minced shrimp' like how the menu stated, but actually whole shrimp; the wrapper was a little gummy); the Beef Rice Noodle Roll (minced beef with parsley, wrapped in rice flour, and served with sweet soy sauce; this was kind of gross and inedible, as the texture was really strange; the sweet soy sauce was overly sweet); and, the spring roll (requested without pork; this was actually pretty tasty and fried well, and good to dip in the duck sauce from the packets that came with). We also ordered the Soy Sauce Chow Mein, but this was absolutely flavorless, and adding soy sauce/chili oil didn't help. Gourmet Inspirations really needs to rethink and review the logistics - the dim sum cart situation is a hot mess, and while this place does seem like a popular choice for many, I feel like it gets filled up since the parties are literally just sitting there, waiting for their food. I get the experience of the cart being rolled around and choosing from it, but no one's getting anything - why not just have the tables fill out a paper menu and put those orders in? I feel like parties would order more as well. Definitely not worth a return visit. Only about 3 spots in the front, but there's a metered County lot just a block over. +inefficient dim sum experience +gummy textures of dumpling wrappers +extremely limited parking in the front; metered County lot is the best option

    9. Chicken Feet with Chili Black Bean Sauce Dim Sum Lunch
    Ivy L.

    Gourmet Inspirations We're looking for dimsum during the week, and in the search this place come up with most reviews, so we gave it a try! It's in the middle of the week, so no reservations needed, just come in and ready to eat good food. This place was almost half filled during lunch hours, it's a local favorite! They offered most of dimsum menu, but you have to order ahead, unlike in weekends they ran carts around. We ordered dimsum staples, like chicken feet, siumay, steamed chinese bbq bun, fried noodle, and the best one is the fried taro shrimp cake and chrysanthemum tea! The best combination! the utensils are from paper plates and plastic cutlery, it makes a lil bit harder to manage some food. 2646 University Blvd W, Wheaton MD 20902 Tue Closed. Mon-Fri 11.30AM-8PM, Sat-Sun 10.30AM-8PM accessible spacious and clean with several booth inside restrooms limited parking in front of restaurant. #gourmetinspirations #wheatonmd #mocomd #visitmoco #visitmaryland

    June K.

    So delicious and our waiter was kind. Inside was spacious and perfect for larger groups. I would order everything again. I forgot the exact names but I was a huge fan of the fried taro thing and ... shrimp shumai?

    Jannet C.

    We've been here for dim sum before, and it was delicious, so we went back to try some dinner there. Everything was so amazing! We got a pork pan fried noodles, a beef chow fun and a sweet and sour fish. The ingredients are fresh, the flavors were right on point. Service is always nice. We will definitely be back soon.

    Victoria S.

    Went on a Sunday afternoon (3pm) for dim sum. They didn't have cart service, but an extensive paper menu and pencil to indicate the dishes and quantities wanted. We ordered a mix of steamed, pan-fried, deep fried, and stir-fried savory and sweet items. All came out together piping hot. The portions were generous and quality was good. The har how and shumai were meaty, surrounded by firm wrappers. The fried taro was crispy on the outside and soft and velvety on the inside. Turnip cakes, fried noodles, stuffed eggplant, and stuffed tofu were all top notch and tasty. The sesame balls for dessert were perfectly fried with a glutinous and chewy texture (with red bean filling). Prices are reasonable, service was friendly and professional. Will be back!

    Maxine J.

    I ABSOLUTELY LOVE DIM SUM! This is a tradition started by my Mother almost 30 years ago. The culture, carts of food, ambiance, etc. is ALWAYS thrilling and enjoyable. This restaurant is, hands down, the BEST in Maryland. We have tried others but we always come home to Gourmet Inspirations. No surprise, it's family owned and they consistently acknowledge our presence with such grace and respect. Our tea pot stays full and hot and a fresh plate of their almond and/or peanut butter cookies are readily shared at the end of our meal. The customer service is always immaculate, no matter how busy they get (which is always unbelievably busy on Sundays - which is what prompted a Saturday visit from us this time). Hint: order the iced coffee and make sure the Dad prepares it for you. Also, ask to meet the Mom and #1 Son ... they never shy away from making connections with their guests. I swear, the Mom is the friendliest restaurant owner ever! Seriously, if you want authentic Cantonese cuisine and NOT from a carry-out ... put this restaurant on your bucket list. (Just don't make plans to visit on a Tuesday ... it's the only day they're closed.)

    Beef ho fun and shrimp dumplings
    Rachel S.

    Came here for the first time for dim sum with another couple on a Sunday. What's Hot - Quality. Delish! Finding good quality dim sum is not very easy and this place has good quality. Our friends, nor my husband, had anything bad to say about the food, which is definitely a good sign. The texture and flavor of the foods was all pretty good and you could taste that it was recently made. My husband and our friends particularly like their pineapple dumplings, egg tarts, and chive dumplings. - Variety. Pretty good selection. That they also have chicken feet is always a good sign! There are many dishes with seafood, meats, and veggies. At the time we were there, there were shrimp rice rolls, shrimp dumplings, chive dumplings, BBQ pork dumplings, pineapple dumplings, suimai, daikon cakes, and a lot more. My point is that their selection goes beyond the handful of standard items, which is good thing. They appear to try to cater to a more ethnic clientele, which is a good sign, as well. During dim sum, it appears you may be able to order off their lunch menu, so if there isn't anything that suits you on the dim sum menu, you have other options. - Service. Pretty good. For example, there were a couple of items that I did not see being wheeled out. When I asked their staff if they have a particular dish, they confirmed with me that they do and they made sure to have it brought out to our table. - Layout. Pretty good. There are many family size tables that cater to a larger group; perhaps 6-8 people. There are also a decent number of smaller tables that will seat anywhere between 1-4. - Health and safety. During this time of the pandemic, when things are still uncertain, I saw all of their staff wearing face masks. Definitely reassuring to see businesses continue to take precautions, especially those that interact with the public on a regular basis. What's Not - Price. Total for the 4 of us came out to $105. It's not the most expensive, but be prepared for the balance to add up quickly for something like dim sum, where you're literally getting the food as it's being wheeled around. It appears the way they charge is based on the type of dish you order- meats, seafood, veggies, etc.... Specifically, their tab is divided into categories- A, B, C. Depending on the type of dish you order, they'll circle the type of dish on your tab. You're also entrusting that they remember exactly what price category of dish you just ordered. - Menu variety. It's not bad, but it's not as extensive as I would like it to be. I wish they had certain dishes like marinated/stewed pork ears and red bean buns. On the day we went, they didn't have specific buns, veggies, etc... My point is not to be surprised if they don't have as much variety as you would hope. - Service. Not bad, but not great. It's not always easy to flag down the wait staff. You may have to be proactive about it. As a result, there were a couple of times, it took me several attempts to get someone's attention and/or to get a specific dish we wanted. - Parking. There's an itty bitty parking lot in front of the restaurant, which I definitely don't recommend you use. Some of the parking spots are back to back parking, which I am not sure how that would work out logistically, but there you have it. There's a metered parking lot on the same street, a couple of restaurants on the side. Sundays is free parking, which is a bonus. Final Answer Would probably return for another round of dim sum.

    1. Har Gow (tons of shrimps and perfect) and 12. Steamed BBQ Pork Buns
    MJ C.

    Went for the dim sum and we weren't disappointed. They walk around with little carts... take your pick. You can also order assorted dishes (recommend grabbing a menu... we just listened to other tables and copied). Also, you can request specific dumplings. Everything was delicious and it was fun seeing what was on the carts and what other tables picked out. One warning - parking is terrible so be prepared.

    a plate of food on a table

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    We have a luncheon party. Absolutely no complaint about the extensive (7 dishes) menu at an unbeatable price of $25 per person.

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    Page 1 of 13

    Ask the Community - Gourmet Inspirations

    Are they still using paper plates for dim sum?

    Yes at least end of year. A very disappointing dim sum experience for us.

    Do they only have the carts on weekends?

    Yes, I think they only do dim sum on the weekends.

    Can you order dim sum anytime?

    Yes, I have been able to order dim sum for pickup on Friday and Saturday evenings in the past year.

    Does anyone know if they have gluten free options? Thanks

    Yes, they do have gluten free options, and their menu is well labeled.

    View All 5 Questions

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    3.5(638 reviews)
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    Stopped by Far East Restaurant for dim sum recently and was so happy to see dine-in seating fully…read moreback again after COVID -- it really brings back the classic dim sum experience. We arrived right when they opened around 11 AM on a weekend and were seated immediately since it wasn't too busy yet. One thing to note is that the entire party needs to be present before being seated, which they enforce, but it helps keep things moving smoothly once you're inside. The service felt traditional and efficient, with attentive push carts circulating constantly, making it easy to see what's fresh and grab dishes as they come by. The staff were also accommodating with a baby seat, which made the visit comfortable for families. The steamed cart is always my favorite, and Far East does it well. Standouts for me were the shrimp rice crepe (silky and delicate), shrimp dumplings (har gow) with plump, juicy filling, and the steamed ribs, which were tender and flavorful. The chicken feet and tripe were also well prepared -- classic dim sum staples done right. I also loved the sticky rice, which was fragrant and satisfying, along with two must-order bakery items: the pineapple buns and egg tarts. Both were fresh and comforting, with the egg tarts having that perfect balance of flaky crust and smooth custard. Overall, Far East delivers a solid, traditional dim sum experience -- lively carts, reliable favorites, and a welcoming environment for groups and families. Great spot to gather, share dishes, and enjoy a relaxed weekend dim sum meal. Definitely glad to have seating back again.

    We had a lot of fun at dim sum brunch at Far East Restaurant. The service was very fast. The…read moreservers with the carts come around with various offerings, and you basically just say yes or no to each thing they try to put on the table. Most of the food was excellent. We especially enjoyed some steamed shrimp dumplings, noodle dishes and fried rice. I loved the stuffed eggplant. The restaurant got very busy around noon, but the fast and attentive service stayed consistent. We felt like we got a good price for a vast amount of dishes. We were happy with the experience.

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    I can't believe it's taken me so long to write a review about this place…read more I don't know where to start, so I'll keep it simple: This place is amazing. Go here for Dim Sum, get everything you know you'd like and then get some random stuff just to try it and see if you like it. It's amazing. My family drives here for special meals a couple times a year all the way from Richmond, VA--about 3 hours away if the traffic is decent. And we do it because the food is fantastic. My favorite item are the golden pork buns, but really, there are so many wonderful things on the menu. And it's affordable too! Grab a couple friends you don't mind splitting plates with, because everything has 3-4 pieces per plate. Each plate is about $3-7. You end up incredibly full by the end of the meal, having only spent maybe $60-70 or the whole table. Go try this place!!!

    Came with some long time fans of this place to see if the hype was real. They are closing at the…read moreend of August in case you want to stop by. The service is good and the bathroom was way cleaner then anticipated. Crispy beef: One of their favorite dishes, I thought it was pretty good. Fried spicy tofu: One of their favorites, if you scrape up the garlic and seasoning to eat together it's fine. Not a fan of tofu but you could think it was bread if you didn't know. Dry flat noodles with pork: A tad salty but overall pretty good. Black pepper beef: Very chewy, not at all peppery, and decidedly average. Spicy eggplant with pork: No one liked this. Rice: Not sticky enough for eating with chopsticks. I didn't have anything very authentic, but for classic Chinese carryout you can do much worse.

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    3.5(19 reviews)
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    There are apparently multiple businesses sharing the same space. One is kung fu tea, one is pho…read moredistrict and apparently there is district dumpling. We ordered brisket pho, pork and soup dumplings, and pork pot stickers (dim sum). Food came out piping hot, as it was cooked. Pho was decent. Meat a little dry but not chewy. Too many onions not enough meat though. Pan fried pork dumplings were excellent. Almost like a soup dumpling, with how juicy they are inside. However the pork has grisly bits that couldn't be chewed so that's a star off despite the taste. The soup dumplings had sufficient juice. Not overflowing like, but good enough (saw some complaints about that). The pork soup dumplings had an unusual somewhat sweet broth that wasn't my favorite. Bubble tea we got half sweet, but kids would have preferred full sweet (half sweet wasn't sweet enough they said). Overall would come back for the chicken soup dumplings and pan fried dumplings.

    Rainbow soup dumplings Ok, these were a great choice to try…read moreout the menu for the first time. Even with delivery, these maintained their dumpling skin integrity and didn't leak in transit. I'd argue that the skin is a little thick, but I was really impressed by the filling flavors. Because it was delivered, it was not as hot as it probably would be in store - the soup broth was still brothy but a little more thick than it would be if they were hotter. - Shrimp and zucchini - very delicate, light flavor. - Black truffle - oh yum! Really flavorful, rich, and delicious. - Pork and crab meat - woot! This is so tasty! This feels like the traditional soup dumpling. Excellent. - Chicken - if you love a good chicken soup, this is for you. It's got a tiny kick of spice at the end as well. - Pork - I was not enamored of this one. It was...fine...but didn't have the depth of flavors of the others I tried. - Mala - I didn't really taste the mouth-numbing, tingly spice these were supposed to bring, which didn't stop them from being good. I'd probably order the black truffle and the crab and pork again. These definitely hit the spot for a dumpling craving.

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    Gourmet Inspirations - dimsum - Updated May 2026

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