Ha Long Bay Restaurant

Ha Long Bay Restaurant, located at 5944 34th St N in St. Petersburg, FL, is a vibrant culinary gem specializing in traditional Chinese and Vietnamese cuisines with an impressive focus on authentic dim sum. This restaurant offers a warm, bustling atmosphere that nods to the classic dim sum experience, complete with the nostalgic element of pushcart service—a rare find in the Tampa Bay area that immediately immerses diners in the lively ritual of selecting bite-sized delicacies as they roll by.

The menu at Ha Long Bay is a richly textured journey through the flavors of both Chinese and Vietnamese kitchens. For dim sum lovers, the Shumai Shrimp Dumpling and Black Bean Spare Ribs promise a satisfying mix of tender, savory bites, though some diners have noted a slight greasiness that might temper the experience for those seeking lighter fare. The Peking Duck and Roast Duck Dim Sum showcase the kitchen’s commitment to traditional recipes, offering crispy skin and flavorful meat that melts delightfully on the tongue. Other standout dishes like the Fried Shrimp Ball and BBQ Pork deliver comforting, savory notes that enhance the overall feast.

Vietnamese specialties elevate the dining experience with delicately balanced salads such as the Lotus Rootless Salad with Pork & Shrimp and the vibrant Shrimp & Pork Salad, each brimming with fresh herbs and a tantalizing blend of textures. The Vietnamese-style soups, including the Hot & Sour Canh Chua and Watercress with Pork and Tofu Soup, provide a fragrant, soothing warmth, perfect for cleansing the palate between more robust dishes. Angel Hair Vermicelli dishes topped with charbroiled meatballs or shrimp cakes are bright, fresh, and uniquely satisfying—the kind of authentic meals that speak to the heart of Vietnamese home cooking.

The dining room itself is inviting and clean, decorated thoughtfully to offer a relaxed yet lively ambiance that suits both casual meals and special outings. Guests often mention the friendly, patient service and the charm of watching carts glide through the restaurant, creating an interactive and engaging meal scene. While some diners have shared that portions for certain dim sum items can be modest and service hiccups occur occasionally, the overall sentiment is of a locally cherished establishment where diners can indulge in a diverse range of Asian flavors. The restaurant’s bustling vibe, coupled with the occasional presence of families captivated by the fish aquarium, crafts a welcoming environment that feels both traditional and lively.

For those seeking a nuanced, savory escape into Chinese and Vietnamese culinary traditions, Ha Long Bay Restaurant offers a rich palette of flavors, from the deep umami in their Beef Chow Fun to the fragrant, delicate layering of sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf. Whether you're drawn by the dim sum carts or the vibrant, fresh Vietnamese salads and soups, this spot embodies a heartfelt culinary adventure that resonates with authenticity and community spirit. It’s a place where the interplay of textures and bold flavors invites you to savor each bite thoughtfully and return for more discoveries.