Back in February, I visited one of my favorite restaurants, Little Sister, for dineLA. That experience was exceptional, so when I saw they were part of the summer dineLA lineup, I knew I had to return. Four courses, each one designed to surprise and delight.

First Course: Papaya Salad and Goi Cuon

I started with the Papaya Salad and Goi Cuon. The Papaya Salad combines crisp green papaya, fresh herbs, beef jerky, and candied shrimp in a bright chili lime vinaigrette, topped with salty, crunchy peanuts. Light, refreshing, and never boring — perfect for summer.

The Goi Cuon, fresh spring rolls with shrimp, pork, and Vietnamese herbs, came wrapped in delicate rice paper and paired with a coconut peanut sauce that had just the right richness.

Second Course: Housemade Dumplings

Next came the Housemade Dumplings — plump pockets filled with chicken and shiitake mushrooms, served with a chili vinegar dipping sauce that added a tangy balance. A bit salty for my taste, but the sauce kept me coming back for “just one more.”

Third Course: The Shorty and Coco Pork

My main dish, The Shorty, was everything I’d hoped for: tender char siu short rib resting on scallion fondue with mushrooms, pickled leeks, and lotus root — a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

My friend chose the Coco Pork, a braised pork dish reminiscent of Filipino adobo, made with bay leaf, coconut, black pepper, and ginger, and finished with a quail egg. Flavorful, though my heart stayed with The Shorty.

Fourth Course: Café Sua Da Pot au Crème

Dessert was the Café Sua Da Pot au Crème, a smooth coffee custard with a bold caffeine kick — creamy, intense, and exactly how I wanted the meal to end.

Every time I dine at Little Sister, I leave with the same thought: When can I come back? Whether it’s dineLA or a casual dinner out, this place always makes me smile.

For more smiles, please check out my Yelp Review on Little Sister.