If you’re an abalone lover, you know that finding a 5-head braised set for under ten bucks is basically a myth in Richmond.
We visited Empire Seafood Restaurant for dinner the other night and noticed a promotion on the table that seemed too good to be true. You can get the Braised Abalone with Goose Web (蠔皇五頭鮑魚配鵝掌) for just $9.90. Considering the regular price is listed at $38.80, that is a massive drop.
The “Catch” (But It’s Not Too Bad)
Because this is such a deep discount, there are a few ground rules we had to clarify with the server:
- The Minimum: You have to order at least two regular-priced dishes to unlock the $9.90 price point.
- Mealsets Count: If you’re eyeing their bigger dinner sets, those count as “one dish” toward your two-dish minimum (since they’re already discounted).
- Per Person: It’s limited to one abalone plate per person at the table.
- Dine-In Only: This is strictly for those sitting down for a meal.
Our Verdict
We tried it out, and the sizing was surprisingly generous for the price. The abalone was tender and the sauce was incredibly rich and flavourful.
With prices going up everywhere, finding a high-end delicacy for the price of a fast-food burger is a win. It honestly reminds us of the IKEA Swedish Thursday deal where everything is half-price—it’s just one of those rare spots where you actually feel like you’re beating the system.
What do you think? Are you heading to Empire to claim your $10 abalone, or does the two-dish minimum make you hesitate? Let us know over on Instagram!
Address: 5951 Number 3 Rd Unit 200, Richmond, BC V6X 2E3
