Asian Palace

Goodbye to a Memphis Favorite: A Farewell to Asian Palace and a Welcome to Dim Sum King

It’s always hard to say goodbye to a beloved restaurant, especially when it has become a staple for the local community. Unfortunately, Memphis said goodbye to Asian Palace in September, and the void was quickly filled by a new name—Dim Sum King—which opened on October 1. Before the transition, Asian Palace was a place where food lovers gathered for its authentic Chinese dishes, offering a blend of flavors and textures that captured the essence of traditional Chinese cuisine. I had the privilege of dining there just before it closed, and the experience was nothing short of remarkable.

A Flavorful Farewell at Asian Palace

On my last visit to Asian Palace, I made sure to try as many dishes as possible to pay homage to the restaurant’s incredible menu. From fried rice to fresh seafood, everything was prepared with care, quality ingredients, and, most importantly, the rich flavors that made the restaurant stand out.

Young Chow Fried Rice

To start, I ordered the Young Chow Fried Rice—a classic dish that never disappoints. The rice was perfectly fried, with a nice balance of eggs, vegetables, and a slight touch of soy sauce. It was the kind of dish that made you want to order more, with each bite delivering comfort and satisfaction.

Crispy Spicy Salted Tofu

Next, I dove into the Crispy Spicy Salted Tofu, which was an absolute winner. The tofu was crispy on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside. The spice and salt combination was bold and tantalizing, making it a perfect dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their meal.

Spicy Salt Shrimp

Following that, I enjoyed the Spicy Salt Shrimp, a dish that truly highlighted the restaurant’s expertise in preparing seafood. The shrimp were perfectly seasoned with spicy salt, making every bite bursting with flavor. It was a dish that left you wanting more, and it paired beautifully with the fried rice.

Garlic Ginger Onion Lobster Stir Fry & Whole Steamed Fish with Ginger Onion

For something more indulgent, I ordered the Garlic Ginger Onion Lobster Stir Fry and the Whole Steamed Fish with Ginger Onion. The lobster was incredibly tender, coated in a savory garlic and ginger sauce that was both fragrant and mouthwatering. The fish was steamed to perfection, maintaining its delicate flavor while being complemented by the aromatic ginger and onion sauce. Both dishes captured the essence of what makes Chinese cuisine so special—balanced, bold, and full of flavor.

Dumplings and Soups: A Comforting Touch

I couldn’t resist trying some of the restaurant’s dumplings and soups, and I’m so glad I did. The Shrimp and Chives Dumpling was a perfect bite-sized treat, with the shrimp and chives combination offering a subtle yet flavorful experience. The Shumai Dumplings were just as delicious, with the perfect balance of textures and seasonings.

The Fish Maw Soup was a comforting choice, with its rich broth and soft fish maw adding an extra layer of depth. Paired with the Steamed Tripe with Oystery Sauce, it was a meal full of bold, savory flavors that perfectly complemented each other.

Vegetable and Stir-Fry Dishes

In addition to the rich seafood and meats, I also made sure to try some vegetable dishes. The Chinese Broccoli with Garlic was a fresh and crisp side that balanced out the heavier dishes, and the Lo Mein was the ultimate comfort food with its noodles coated in a savory sauce.

For another seafood treat, I tried the Stir Fried Clams, which were cooked in a flavorful sauce that enhanced the natural sweetness of the clams. The Oysters with Black Bean Sauce was another memorable dish, with the briny oysters soaked in a savory, umami-rich black bean sauce.

Steamed Chicken with Ginger Onion Sauce

Lastly, I had to try the Steamed Chicken with Ginger Onion Sauce, a simple yet delicious dish that highlighted the natural flavors of the chicken. The ginger onion sauce was light but aromatic, and it complemented the chicken without overpowering it.

A Beloved Restaurant That Will Be Missed

Asian Palace was more than just a restaurant; it was a gathering place for families, friends, and anyone who appreciated authentic Chinese cuisine. The dishes were always consistent, flavorful, and made with care, and it will undoubtedly be missed by many.

While Dim Sum King has now taken over the space and promises to bring something new to the table, it’s hard not to look back fondly at the memories created at Asian Palace. The food, the atmosphere, and the hospitality will forever remain a part of Memphis’ culinary landscape.

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