Tampa’s food scene just got a major upgrade. Retro House Dim Sum has officially opened its brand-new sit-down café at 934 E Henderson Ave, just outside Historic Ybor City. This stylish new addition turns the popular dim sum spot into one of Tampa’s best new hangouts, complete with local art, cozy seating, and a community-driven atmosphere.
A collaboration between the team behind Felicitous—Corrinne Liou and Paul Venghaus—and the owners of Heritage Dim Sum—Meishan Lu and Joseph Hixon—Retro House continues to serve up unforgettable bao buns, big bowls, and dim sum favorites. Now, they’ve created a space that invites guests to stay a while.
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Retro House offers a full cafe experience
Open for both dine-in and takeout, Retro House has expanded its hours to fit the new café concept:
- Wednesday–Sunday: 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 7:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Thanks to Felicitous’s signature coffee program, morning visitors can enjoy expertly brewed coffee and fresh pastries, alongside dim sum staples. It’s the best of both brands, all in one place.
A culinary powerhouse
The journey behind Retro House began at one of Felicitous’s vendor markets, where Liou first encountered Meishan Lu’s dim sum. “It blew my mind,” Liou said after tasting Lu’s expertly crafted Har Gow.
Lu’s culinary roots run deep. Her grandparents were master dim sum chefs, and her mother is a certified chef. After launching her food truck in Miami in 2017, Lu’s ube and golden lava bao buns quickly went viral, gaining a loyal following.
For Lu, Retro House is more than a restaurant—it’s a tribute to her heritage and the flavors that connect generations. That same passion fuels the partnership with Liou, who’s devoted to bringing more culinary diversity to Tampa.
Vegan treats and must-try dishes
The Retro House menu is packed with crave-worthy options. Highlights include:
- Crispy Mango Shrimp Wontons
- Golden Lava Bao: A dramatic black and gold bun filled with salted egg yolk custard
- Pan-Fried Bao Buns
- Crab Rangoon Egg Rolls
- Char Siu Fried Rice
Vegan diners will love the Ube Bao—a bright purple, sweet-savory treat that’s already earned glowing reviews. The Curry Tofu Fried Rice is another standout, and it might just be one of the best dishes in Tampa this year.
What’s next for Retro House
Beyond the café experience, Retro House is planning to host on-site night markets featuring vintage vendors and local creatives. “We want to create a space where people feel inspired, fed, and connected,” said Paul Venghaus.
Whether you’re enjoying a bao bun, sipping a latte, or browsing handmade goods at a market, Retro House offers a truly unique experience in Tampa.
Follow Retro House on Instagram for updates, upcoming events, and new menu items. Orders for pickup are available directly on their website. Retro House is open for takeout. Follow the restaurant on Instagram for updates, and order for pickup directly on the restaurant’s website.
