The authentic dim sum scene in Las Vegas has always been lacking. Ping Pang Pong and Chang's Hong Kong have been the two well-known local favorites for a long time. KJ is certainly a very welcomed new addition.
Located in the Rio Hotel off-strip, KJ is actually just across the street from the Gold Coast Casino where Ping Pang Pong is located. I can see some friendly competition there LOL!
KJ is a bit more upscale; the ambience is nicer, and of course the place is newer. The service we had was also actually very good for a Chinese dim sum place. The last 2 times I was in Ping Pang Pong I actually found the service rather chaotic. So this is definitely a +1 for KJ.
The dim sum was above average, and actually really good by Vegas standard. The congee rivaled some of the best in the SGV. Pork spareribs were yummy and there was more meat than bones. Cool! Bean curb wrap was good and so was the steamed taro cake. We also liked the beef balls although I found the Chinese bbq sauce flavor a bit too overwhelming.
The basic staples - har gow and siu mai - were only average. The har gow skin was thick and mushy and the shrimp filling didn't taste fresh.
This is really 3.5 stars but in Vegas we'll need to keep our expectations reasonable, so I'll give it 4 Vegas stars.