China Max

Beef rice noodle.

BBQ pork buns.

Shrimp and spinach dumplings.

Shrimp har gow.

Baked custard buns.

Rating: Two thumbs up

Date: 11/5/10
Time in: 12:50 PM

Time out: 1:50 PM

Server's recommendations: Shrimp har gow

What we ordered: Shrimp and spinach dumplings, shrimp har gow, beef rice noodle, steamed BBQ pork buns, baked custard buns (We ordered from the Dim Sum menu but they have a lot of other things.)

Number in our party: 2

Final check amount: $21.40

Notes:

• The server was a very friendly and helpful "kind of adorable" older man.
• We liked the shrimp and spinach dumplings best, but everything was good.
• The bathroom was clean, but shabby.
• Small plates were about $2.75, large were $4.50.
• It has a very nice atmosphere (white tablecloths, nice patio).  You could come here for a celebration, but it's not too expensive and we didn't feel out of place in jeans.

RESTAURANT INFORMATION

Address: 4698 Convoy St

Phone number: 858.650.3333

Website: www.chinamaxsandiego.com

Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-11pm; Sat-Sun 9am-11pm

Accepts credit cards? Yes

Parking: Private lot shared with rest of plaza -- spaces available.

Ideal group size: Any -- they even have banquet space upstairs.  Most of the dim sum came in multiples of 3, so keep that in mind.

Available vegetarian options: Mainly sweets; a few vegetable dishes.

Who not to bring: People who hate Chinese food?  Otherwise this would be a great place to bring almost anyone, including in-laws, children (if more or less well-behaved) or unadventurous eaters.

Noise level: 2

Chopsticks: On the table; no forks offered.