Located in Burnaby on Edmonds near Kingsway, in a very nondescript building is a culinary gem revered by food aficionados – the Peaceful Restaurant. Inside the restaurant you can get the most wonderful, silky smooth, delicate Xiao Long Bao.
The Xiao Long Bao, sometimes known as XLB, or soup dumplings served at Peaceful Restaurant embody an experience of unparalleled bliss. Crafted with precision and artistry, each Xiao Long Bao is a delight.
The process begins with the creation of a thin, elastic dough, skillfully folded into small pouches that hold a tantalizing filling. Within these parcels lies an exquisite blend of flavours – a marriage of savory broth and finely minced meats, enfolded in the delicate wrapper.
The magic of the Xiao Long Bao reveals itself in the first bite. As you gingerly lift one from the steaming bamboo basket, the aroma teases your senses. A careful nibble of the dumpling releases a burst of flavours. It is important to catch the soup in your spoon which you carefully hold below the dumpling.
If you are not careful, the steaming hot soup broth will spill onto your plate (see the picture above of me not-so-adeptly eating my XLB). For those with a keen eye, they will notice that this is the XLB I had at Mei Le restaurant – I was so mezmerized by the soup dumplings at Peaceful Restaurant I didn’t get pics of me doing the “first nibble”.
The savoury broth mingles with the succulent essence of the delicate meat filling. The tender dough, so carefully pleated, cradles the savory nectar within.
Similar to the story about flying First Class or Business Class, you cannot go back to flying economy, once you have had XLB at Peaceful Restaurant, you can not go back to eating cheap dumplings. The Xiao Long Bao at the Peaceful Restaurant transcend the ordinary.
The art of savoring a Xiao Long Bao extends beyond its taste. It’s an experience steeped in mindfulness and appreciation – a reminder to slow down and relish each moment. If you are skilled enough to handle the dumpling, try dipping it into the ginger-infused vinegar and delicate soy sauce. That simple addition again elevates the experience.
In a world bustling with noise and haste, the Xiao Long Bao at Peaceful Restaurant isn’t just a dish; it’s an indulgence, a harmonious blend of culinary finesse and a testament to the profound joy found in simplicity.
We visited the Burnaby Peaceful Restaurants at 7355 Edmonds Street. There are other locations in Coquitlam, Richmond, and two in Vancouver.