Savor the Ultimate Dim Sum Brunch at Ling Wu at The Grove

Craving an authentic dim sum brunch in Austin, TX? Look no further than Ling Wu Asian Restaurant at The Grove, located at 2625 Perseverance Dr, Austin, TX 78731. Opened in July 2024 by acclaimed chef Ling Qi Wu, this stylish restaurant in the Rosedale neighborhood has quickly become a hotspot for foodies seeking high-end Chinese cuisine with a focus on dim sum. In this article, we’ll dive into why Ling Wu at The Grove is the go-to destination for a memorable weekend brunch and how it elevates Austin’s dining scene.

Why Ling Wu at The Grove is a Dim Sum Haven

Ling Wu at The Grove, the fifth restaurant from Chef Ling Qi Wu, blends traditional Chinese flavors with modern flair. Known for her tenure as the opening dim sum chef at Wu Chow and her successful ventures like Lin Asian Bar and Qi Austin, Chef Wu brings her expertise to this elegant eatery. Here’s why the dim sum brunch at Ling Wu at The Grove stands out:

• Weekend Dim Sum Brunch: Available Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM, the brunch features an extensive menu of dumplings, buns, and more, perfect for a leisurely meal.
• Authentic and Innovative Dishes: Expect classics like shrimp har kaw alongside unique offerings like scallop caviar sui mai and crispy sea cucumber har kaw.
• Sophisticated Ambiance: The restaurant’s nautical-themed decor, with Chinese dragons and ropes, creates a chic yet approachable vibe, ideal for brunch with friends or family.
• Dietary Options: Gluten-free dishes like crispy trio dumplings and vegan options like steam spinach dumplings cater to diverse preferences.

Top Dim Sum Dishes to Try at Ling Wu at The Grove

The dim sum brunch menu at Ling Wu at The Grove is a culinary delight, showcasing Chef Wu’s mastery. Here are must-try dishes to elevate your brunch experience:

1. Ling’s Soup Dumplings: Plump and juicy, these pork-filled dumplings deliver a burst of savory broth in every bite.
2. Shrimp Har Kaw: A dim sum staple, these large, salty shrimp dumplings are a crowd-pleaser.
3. Scallop Caviar Sui Mai: An upscale twist on traditional sui mai, topped with luxurious caviar for a decadent touch.
4. Pan Sear Basil Chicken Dumpling: Crispy triangles stuffed with ground chicken, water chestnuts, and shiitake mushrooms, offering a balanced flavor.
5. Lobster Cheese Puff: A rich and indulgent treat combining lobster and creamy cheese.
6. Steam Spinach Dumpling: A vegan-friendly option with vibrant green wrappers and a fresh, flavorful filling.

Pair your dim sum with a lychee martini or a classic mimosa from the full bar to complete the brunch experience. The Austin Chronicle praises the scallion pancake with curry sauce as a standout, noting its flaky, non-greasy texture, making it another must-try.

The Ling Wu at The Grove Experience

Nestled in The Grove’s vibrant Perseverance Drive, alongside restaurants like Carve and Verdad, Ling Wu offers a welcoming atmosphere with indoor and outdoor dining options. Yelp reviewers highlight the “aesthetic vibe” and comfortable seating, while the restaurant’s elegant decor, featuring bird cages and Chinese lanterns, adds sophistication. With a 4.5-star Tripadvisor rating, diners rave about the food and ambiance, though some note the service can be friendly but not overly warm.

Pro Tip: Brunch can get busy, especially on Sundays. Reserve a table via Resy to avoid waits, as the restaurant is a popular weekend destination. Online takeout is also available for those who prefer dim sum at home.

What Diners Are Saying

Ling Wu at The Grove has earned a loyal following since its grand opening. Here’s what customers are saying:

• “The dim sum brunch is really fun, and I liked most of the dishes I tried. The soup dumplings were delicious!” – Reddit user
• “The food, service, and ambiance are fantastic. The curry ox tail is a must-have!” – MapQuest reviewer
• “The shrimp har kaw were large, very shrimpy, and salty in a good way. A great addition to The Grove.” – Austin Chronicle

Some diners mention that certain dishes, like the minced meat butter lettuce wrap, didn’t meet expectations, but the dim sum offerings consistently receive high praise. Prices are considered reasonable, with dim sum plates ranging from $10 to $15, though some entrees, like market-priced items, can be higher.

Tips for Your Dim Sum Brunch Visit

Maximize your brunch experience at Ling Wu at The Grove with these tips:

• Reserve Early: Use the Resy app or visit lingwugrove.com to book, as brunch hours (10:30 AM–3:00 PM) are peak times. Ensure you select “Ling Wu Grove” to avoid confusion with the Lantana location.
• Share Plates: Dim sum is best enjoyed family-style. Order a variety of steamed, fried, and pan-seared items to sample the menu’s diversity.
• Try Exclusive Dishes: The Grove location offers unique items like true morel mushroom chicken and sautéed celtuce, not available at other Ling Wu restaurants.
• Arrive Hungry: Portions are generous, and the menu’s variety encourages exploration.
• Plan for Parking: The Grove offers ample parking, making it easy to access the restaurant.

How Ling Wu at The Grove Elevates Austin’s Dim Sum Scene

Austin’s dim sum scene is competitive, with restaurants like Wu Chow and Lin Asian Bar setting a high bar. Ling Wu at The Grove distinguishes itself with Chef Wu’s innovative approach and focus on lighter, locally sourced ingredients. Eater Austin notes that the restaurant draws inspiration from Wu’s Beijing roots and East/Southeast Asian influences, creating a menu that feels both authentic and fresh. Unlike traditional cart-style dim sum, Ling Wu’s à la carte service ensures every dish is made to order, enhancing quality.

Visit Ling Wu at The Grove Today

Ready to experience Austin’s premier dim sum brunch? Here’s how to plan your visit:

• Address: 2625 Perseverance Dr, Austin, TX 78731
• Brunch Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
• Reservations: Book via Resy or call 512-551-9799
• Website: lingwugrove.com
• Email: lingwugrove@gmail.com

Whether you’re a dim sum aficionado or a first-timer, Ling Wu Asian Restaurant at The Grove delivers a brunch experience that’s flavorful, elegant, and uniquely Austin. Book your table today and discover why this restaurant is a shining star in the city’s culinary landscape!