Empire Chinese Kitchen is OPEN

Empire Chinese Kitchen. [Photos: Official Site]

Empire Chinese Kitchen, Portland's first dim sum restaurant, opened today for lunch at the corner of Forest Avenue and Congress Street. It occupies the first floor of the former Empire Dine and Dance space. Upstairs, in what is now simply called Empire, live music recently resumed.

The restaurant is co-owned by Theresa Chan and Todd Bernard. Chan is also the GM. They've hired a "dim sum master" from San Francisco to head the kitchen. Here's what the website has to say: "Our kitchen specializes in Dim Sum, a style of Chinese brunch comprised of delectable dumplings and savory small dishes meant to be leisurely eaten family-style. The menu also features traditional and modern Chinese soul food, sourced locally, taking advantage of Maine's amazing natural offerings."

The Bangor Daily News has a story on the opening. Kathleen Pierce writes: "Chinese chowhounds will recognize some dishes, such as wonton noodle soup and egg rolls, but Chan gives them a twist. The Empire eggroll is made with local pastrami, asparagus, cabbage and served with honey dijon dipping sauce ($5)."

Here's the full menu:

Empire Menu