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J Lee's Culinary Journey: Dim Sum Delights and Thai Cuisine in D.C.

Oct 3, 2026
J Lee's Culinary Journey: Dim Sum Delights and Thai Cuisine in D.C.

J Lee, the host of the food and culture podcast "Expense Account" and a critic-at-large for "Feed Me," recently embarked on a culinary journey that took him from San Francisco to Washington, D.C. His trip was marked by a wedding and a craving for dim sum, leading him to the legendary Good Mong Kok in Chinatown. There, he indulged in a feast of dumplings, including har gow and siu mai, which he packed for his flight back to New York.

Reflecting on his love for dim sum, J Lee expressed that bringing food across the country is a testament to its significance. He humorously noted that leftover dim sum often tastes even better than when freshly served, making it a delightful treat during his travels.

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Once in D.C., J Lee was eager to explore the local food scene. He visited Alfie's, a Thai restaurant in Georgetown, where he sampled dishes such as sausage with nam phrik and chili mussels. He praised the restaurant for its vibrant flavors and the quality of fresh herbs sourced from Virginia, declaring it as some of the best Thai food he has encountered in America. J Lee's admiration for Thai cuisine shines through as he describes it as "the most advanced and delicious cuisine in the world," highlighting its complex balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory elements.

His culinary explorations didn't stop there; J Lee also enjoyed a lavish dinner at Lutèce, indulging in dishes like squab and uni, further showcasing the diverse dining experiences D.C. has to offer. As he navigated through his travels, J Lee's passion for food remained evident, making his journey not just about the destinations but the flavors that accompany them.

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