The Americana at Brand lands a new marquee restaurant via Din Tai Fung, the popular worldwide purveyor of soup dumplings with twin outlets in Arcadia, officially open today in a brand new space that is best described as stark, modern, and clean. Simple wood accents line the ceiling and rear of the eatery, while sturdy gray plastic chairs act as the main seating. It’s an upgrade from their more utilitarian spots in the SGV, though mostly because of the unified, cavernous room that houses up to 160 people. Originally founded by the Yang Family, personally approached by Americana owner Rick Caruso, this Din Tai Fung might become one of the best mall restaurants in Los Angeles.
Upon entrance, one will note the trademark fishbowl-like dumpling room where a dozen or so busy pairs of hands assemble the dumplings during service. Off to the side is a scattering of tables that look out to Brand Boulevard (and probably where dozens of diners will wait hours for tables), as well as a full bar, making this the only Din Tai Fung in L.A. to offer full liquor. Non-alcoholic beverages like boba tea in a variety of flavors will also be available.
On the menu, the typical Din Tai Fung fare, from those soup dumplings to pan-fried pork to dan dan noodles. Exclusive to this outlet (at least in America) are truffle dumplings, which run $22.50 for an order for five. The standard dumplings cost anywhere from $8.50 to $11, slightly higher than the SGV locales, but still fairly reasonable for the Americana. Also on the menu, a host of soups like braised beef and wonton, pork chop fried rice, and fried noodles.
Remember that Din Tai Fung’s expansion out of SGV doesn’t stop here. The Costa Mesa is looking at a 2014 debut. Hours run Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with earlier service on the weekends starting at 10 a.m.