Hong Kong, the culinary capital of Asia, is renowned for its vibrant food scene, and dim sum is at the heart of this gastronomic delight. Dim sum, a traditional Cantonese meal of small dishes enjoyed with tea, is a quintessential part of Hong Kong culture. From humble teahouses to luxurious dining establishments, the city offers a plethora of places to savor these bite-sized delicacies. Here’s an in-depth look at the top 20 places to eat dim sum in Hong Kong.
1. Tim Ho Wan
Tim Ho Wan, famously known as the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, is a must-visit for dim sum enthusiasts. Founded by former Lung King Heen dim sum chef Mak Kwai Pui, this eatery offers high-quality dim sum at affordable prices. Signature dishes include the Baked BBQ Pork Buns, Steamed Egg Cake, and Pan-Fried Turnip Cake.
Location: Multiple locations across Hong Kong
2. Lung King Heen
Located in the Four Seasons Hotel, Lung King Heen is the world’s first Chinese restaurant to be awarded three Michelin stars. Executive Chef Chan Yan-tak crafts exquisite dim sum that blends traditional flavors with modern techniques. Must-tries include the Steamed Lobster and Scallop Dumpling and Baked Whole Abalone Puff with Diced Chicken.
Location: 4/F, Four Seasons Hotel, 8 Finance Street, Central
3. Maxim’s Palace City Hall
Maxim’s Palace is renowned for its authentic Cantonese dim sum served in a grand banquet hall setting with a stunning harbor view. The traditional dim sum is served on trolleys, adding to the nostalgic experience. Popular items include the Shrimp Dumplings, Siu Mai, and BBQ Pork Buns.
Location: 2/F, Low Block, City Hall, 5-7 Edinburgh Place, Central
4. DimDimSum Dim Sum Specialty Store
DimDimSum offers a modern twist on traditional dim sum with creative dishes like the Piggy Custard Buns and Pan-fried Minced Fish Head with Lemon Grass. This eatery provides a casual dining experience with consistently high-quality dim sum.
Location: Multiple locations across Hong Kong
5. Ming Court
Ming Court, a Michelin-starred restaurant in the Cordis Hotel, combines luxury with culinary artistry. Chef Li Yuet Faat’s menu features innovative dim sum such as the Steamed Crab Meat Dumpling with Black Truffle and Baked Wagyu Beef Puff.
Location: 6/F, Cordis Hotel, 555 Shanghai Street, Mong Kok
6. Duddell’s
Duddell’s is an elegant restaurant that seamlessly blends art and dining. With two Michelin stars, this establishment offers an upscale dim sum experience. Highlights include the Truffle Dumpling with Assorted Mushrooms and the Pan-Fried Turnip Cake with XO Sauce.
Location: 1 Duddell Street, Central
7. Yum Cha
Yum Cha is famous for its Instagram-worthy dim sum creations. The playful presentation of dishes like the Hot Custard Molten Buns and BBQ Piggy Buns makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Despite the whimsical appearance, the flavors are traditional and satisfying.
Location: Multiple locations across Hong Kong
8. One Dim Sum
One Dim Sum is a local favorite for its affordable yet delicious dim sum. This no-frills restaurant is perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. The Shrimp Dumplings, Siu Mai, and Steamed Rice Rolls are highly recommended.
Location: G/F, 209A-209B Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok
9. Sun Tung Lok Chinese Cuisine
Sun Tung Lok, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers an exquisite dining experience with an emphasis on quality ingredients and traditional recipes. Signature dim sum includes the Steamed Crab Meat Dumpling and the Baked Abalone Puff.
Location: 4/F, China Hong Kong City, 33 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
10. Lin Heung Tea House
Lin Heung Tea House is a historic dim sum establishment that has retained its old-world charm. Known for its bustling atmosphere and traditional dim sum served on trolleys, it’s a step back in time. The Lotus Leaf Rice and Pork Buns are must-tries.
Location: 160-164 Wellington Street, Central
11. The Chairman
The Chairman is known for its farm-to-table approach and emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Although primarily famous for its Cantonese cuisine, the dim sum here is equally impressive. The Steamed Fresh Crab Claw with Aged ShaoXing Wine is a standout dish.
Location: 18 Kau U Fong, Central
12. Seventh Son
Seventh Son, founded by the son of the original Fook Lam Moon founder, offers luxurious and meticulously crafted dim sum. Highlights include the Steamed Pork Dumplings with Crab Roe and the Deep-Fried Taro Puff with Scallops.
Location: 3/F, The Wharney Guang Dong Hotel, 57-73 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai
13. Yan Toh Heen
Located in the InterContinental Hotel, Yan Toh Heen boasts two Michelin stars and offers an elegant dim sum experience with a stunning view of Victoria Harbour. The dim sum menu features luxurious items such as the Steamed King Prawn Dumpling with Gold Leaf and the Baked Barbecue Pork Puff.
Location: Lower Level, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
14. Fook Lam Moon
Fook Lam Moon, known as the “tycoon’s canteen,” is a favorite among Hong Kong’s elite. The dim sum here is known for its premium ingredients and impeccable execution. The Steamed Shrimp Dumplings and Baked Abalone Puff are particularly noteworthy.
Location: 35-45 Johnston Road, Wan Chai
15. Lei Garden
Lei Garden, a Michelin-starred restaurant group, is synonymous with high-quality Cantonese cuisine. The dim sum menu offers a wide variety of traditional and modern dishes, with the Steamed Shrimp Dumplings and Barbecued Pork Buns being highly recommended.
Location: Multiple locations across Hong Kong
16. Yat Lok
While Yat Lok is famed for its roast goose, the dim sum here is equally worth trying. This Michelin-starred eatery offers a variety of traditional dim sum dishes, including Siu Mai and Shrimp Dumplings, that are perfect complements to their signature roast meats.
Location: 34-38 Stanley Street, Central
17. Shang Palace
Shang Palace, located in the Kowloon Shangri-La, is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering a refined dim sum experience. The menu features delicacies such as the Steamed Lobster Dumpling with Bird’s Nest and the Pan-Fried Wagyu Beef Bun.
Location: Lower Level 1, Kowloon Shangri-La, 64 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East
18. Mott 32
Mott 32 combines contemporary design with traditional Chinese cuisine. The dim sum menu features innovative dishes such as the Iberico Pork with Black Truffle Siu Mai and the Soft Quail Egg, Iberico Pork, and Black Truffle Siu Mai.
Location: Standard Chartered Bank Building, 4-4A Des Voeux Road Central, Central
19. Tsui Hang Village
Tsui Hang Village offers a blend of traditional and contemporary dim sum in a relaxed setting. The restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and inventive dishes like the Baked BBQ Pork Buns and the Steamed Rice Rolls with Crispy Dough.
Location: Multiple locations across Hong Kong
20. Serenade Chinese Restaurant
Overlooking Victoria Harbour, Serenade Chinese Restaurant offers a delightful dim sum experience with a view. The dim sum menu features a wide variety of traditional favorites, including the Steamed Shrimp Dumplings and the Barbecued Pork Buns.
Location: 1/F, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Hong Kong’s dim sum scene is a rich tapestry of tradition, innovation, and culinary excellence. From Michelin-starred restaurants to beloved local eateries, each venue offers its own unique take on this beloved Cantonese culinary tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned dim sum aficionado or a curious first-timer, these 20 establishments promise an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Hong Kong’s vibrant food culture.
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