A Convoy District spot Roger rated among the better local options for xiao long bao and pan-fried sheng jian bao, with better-than-typical service to match.
From the order notes
Crab meat xiao long bao · Sheng jian bao · Zha jiang mian · Pork feet
A Kearny Mesa Vietnamese spot Roger praised for freshly made, generous portions — nothing mass-ordered frozen — plus made-to-order coffee and wings he ranks among the only two worth ordering at an Asian restaurant in town.
A low-key Convoy-area grocery Roger called a one-stop shop for a Chinese household: herbal remedies, dried seafood, nostalgic HK/China/Taiwan sodas and whole-leaf teas, tucked in a warehouse half a block west of Convoy.
The newer Chula Vista location of Manna, which Roger tried to dodge the perpetual wait at the Convoy branch; better service and the same standout brisket, "finger meat" and beef tongue.
A Koreatown-area soju lounge Roger used as a pre-dinner stop before hitting nearby KBBQ spots; fast service and reasonably priced flavored soju, though he hadn't yet tried the food.
