Ping Pong: Yum-Yum Dim Sum

An ancient tea house with a modern twist, it isn't surprising why Ping Pong at the Dubai Mall is becoming a destination in itself.

A Dim Sum emporium as it positions itself, the eating joint is as much a draw for its dumplings as it is for its wide pick of mocktails and teas.

The concept of Dim Sum itself is believed to have originated in the 8th century during the period of the Tang Dynasty in China when the royal chefs were ordered to come up with healthy alternatives to heavy meals. The result was the Dian Xin, or dumplings, which were subsequently popularised by merchants in ancient tea houses along the Silk Route.

Drawing on this tradition, Ping Pong too beckons visitors at any time of the day, offering a light but sumptuous spread of steamed, baked or grilled dumplings, puffs and buns. But it's not all Chinese. The cuisine has a blend of Thai and Korean too.

The fusion is evident across the menu. For instance, the Yang Long Mocktail comprises coconut puree, lychee juice and lime leaves, just as the warm, signature vegetable wanton soup has a thin, soothing coconut base.

From spicy chicken and snapper fish shu mai to spicy basil and vegetable, there are over a dozen steamed dumplings to choose from, not to mention other baked and grilled options. The handmade parcels are deceptively small, but can leave you more than full.

The dessert, comprising puddings, buns and ice-cream, could be given a pass, but not the tea that comes at the end of the meal. There's a whole range out there from tea lattes, flowering teas - the Dragon Eye is a must try - and herbal infusions to iced, bubble and gourmet teas.

The ambience too is comfortable as the restaurant can accommodate 242 people at a time, with 68 al fresco options. Brought to Dubai by Igor Sagaryan, a Russian, Ping Pong is a UK-based chain, with 11 restaurants in London and one in Washington.

The restaurant is reasonably priced with a meal for two, inclusive of beverages, costing around Dh200. Set menus range from Dh45 to Dh105. There's also a promotion every Friday at Dh132 for unlimited servings.