If you’re a foodie looking for an exciting culinary adventure, then dim sum in Singapore should definitely be on your list. This traditional Cantonese cuisine has become a staple in Singapore’s food scene, with a wide range of dishes that cater to all taste buds. From steaming baskets of dumplings to fluffy buns and crispy spring rolls, you’ll find it all in Singapore’s dim sum restaurants.
The origin of dim sum can be traced back to the teahouses of ancient China, where travellers would stop for a quick snack and a cup of tea. Over time, the teahouses began to serve small portions of food to accompany the tea, and thus dim sum was born. Today, dim sum is enjoyed all over the world, but Singapore has some of the best dim sum restaurants that offer an authentic dining experience.
If you’re new to dim sum, you may be wondering what dishes to try. Some of the most popular dim sum dishes in Singapore include har gow (shrimp dumplings), siew mai (pork dumplings), char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), and cheong fun (rice noodle rolls). Each restaurant has its own unique twist on these classic dishes, so be sure to try a variety of dim sum to find your favourites.
Key Takeaways
- Dim sum is a popular Cantonese cuisine that has become a staple in Singapore’s food scene.
- The origin of dim sum can be traced back to ancient China, where it was served in teahouses.
- Some of the most popular dim sum dishes in Singapore include har gow, siew mai, char siu bao, and cheong fun.
The Origin of Dim Sum
If you’re a fan of dim sum, you might be curious about where this delicious cuisine originated. Dim sum is a type of Cantonese cuisine that has its roots in Hong Kong, China. The name “dim sum” translates to “touch the heart” in Cantonese, and it’s easy to see why this cuisine has become so beloved all over the world.
Dim sum is believed to have originated in teahouses along the Silk Road more than 2,500 years ago. Travelers would stop at these teahouses to rest and enjoy some light snacks with their tea. Over time, these snacks evolved into the dim sum we know and love today.
In the early days of dim sum, it was primarily a breakfast or brunch food. However, as it grew in popularity, dim sum became a meal that could be enjoyed at any time of day. Today, dim sum is a staple in Cantonese cuisine and can be found in restaurants all over the world.
One of the reasons dim sum has become so popular is because of the wide variety of dishes that are available. From steamed dumplings to fried spring rolls, there’s something for everyone when it comes to dim sum. In fact, some restaurants offer over 100 different types of dim sum dishes!
If you’re a fan of Cantonese cuisine or just looking to try something new, dim sum is definitely worth a try. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’re sure to find a dish that will touch your heart and leave you feeling satisfied.
Popular Dim Sum Dishes in Singapore
If you’re a fan of Chinese cuisine, then you must try dim sum. This Cantonese-style cuisine is popular in Singapore and is usually served in small portions. The dishes are often steamed, fried, or baked, and are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Here are some of the most popular dim sum dishes you can find in Singapore.
Siew Mai and Har Gow
Siew Mai and Har Gow are two of the most popular dim sum dishes in Singapore. Siew Mai is a type of pork dumpling that is usually topped with crab roe or shrimp. Har Gow, on the other hand, is a shrimp dumpling that is wrapped in a translucent skin made from wheat starch. These two dishes are often served together and are perfect for sharing.
Char Siew Bao
Char Siew Bao is a type of steamed bun that is filled with barbecued pork. The bun is usually fluffy and sweet, while the filling is savoury and slightly sweet. This dish is perfect for those who want a taste of sweet and savoury in one bite.
Xiao Long Bao
Xiao Long Bao is a type of steamed bun that is filled with pork and soup. The soup is usually made from pork bones and is seasoned with soy sauce and other spices. This dish is perfect for those who want a burst of flavour in one bite.
Custard Buns
Custard Buns are a type of steamed bun that is filled with sweet custard. The bun is usually fluffy and slightly sweet, while the filling is creamy and sweet. This dish is perfect for those who want a sweet treat after their meal.
Fried Rice and Noodles
Fried Rice and Noodles are also popular dim sum dishes in Singapore. These dishes are usually served as a main course and are perfect for those who want a filling meal. Fried Rice is usually made with eggs, vegetables, and meat, while Noodles are usually served with vegetables and meat in a savoury sauce.
Overall, dim sum is a must-try cuisine in Singapore. Whether you’re a fan of savoury or sweet dishes, there’s something for everyone. So, head over to your nearest dim sum restaurant and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones.
Top Dim Sum Restaurants in Singapore
Singapore is well-known for its delicious and varied food scene, and dim sum is no exception. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you can’t leave Singapore without trying some of the city’s best dim sum restaurants.
Here are some of the top dim sum restaurants in Singapore that you must visit:
Swee Choon
Swee Choon is a popular dim sum restaurant located in Jalan Besar, Singapore. It is known for its traditional dim sum dishes, such as the steamed pork dumplings and the crispy fried prawn rolls. Swee Choon is open 24 hours, so you can satisfy your dim sum cravings any time of the day.
Tim Ho Wan
Tim Ho Wan is a Michelin-starred dim sum restaurant that originated from Hong Kong. It has multiple locations in Singapore, and is known for its signature baked BBQ pork buns and steamed egg cake. Tim Ho Wan is a must-visit for any dim sum lover.
Dim Sum Haus
Dim Sum Haus is a modern dim sum restaurant located in Jalan Besar, Singapore. It is known for its creative and Instagram-worthy dim sum dishes, such as the truffle shiitake bao and the salted egg yolk lava cake. Dim Sum Haus also offers a halal-certified menu for Muslim diners.
126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi
126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi is a popular dim sum restaurant located in Geylang, Singapore. It is known for its affordable and delicious dim sum dishes, such as the steamed siew mai and the crispy fried prawn dumplings. 126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi is a great option for those on a budget.
Red Star Restaurant
Red Star Restaurant is a classic dim sum restaurant located in Chinatown, Singapore. It is known for its traditional dim sum dishes, such as the steamed pork buns and the har gow (shrimp dumplings). Red Star Restaurant also offers a nostalgic dining experience with its old-school decor.
Yum Cha
Yum Cha is a modern dim sum restaurant located in Chinatown, Singapore. It is known for its creative and Instagram-worthy dim sum dishes, such as the custard buns with salted egg yolk filling and the piggy char siew bao. Yum Cha also offers a vegetarian dim sum menu for non-meat eaters.
Cherry Garden
Cherry Garden is a high-end dim sum restaurant located in Marina Bay, Singapore. It is known for its luxurious decor and exquisite dim sum dishes, such as the steamed lobster dumplings and the crispy wasabi prawns. Cherry Garden is a great option for a special occasion or a fancy night out.
Victor’s Kitchen
Victor’s Kitchen is a popular dim sum restaurant located in Bugis, Singapore. It is known for its affordable and delicious dim sum dishes, such as the steamed custard buns and the crispy fried carrot cake. Victor’s Kitchen is a great option for those on a budget.
The Dim Sum Place
The Dim Sum Place is a halal-certified dim sum restaurant located in Kandahar Street, Singapore. It is known for its delicious and authentic dim sum dishes, such as the steamed chicken feet and the crispy fried yam puff. The Dim Sum Place is a great option for Muslim diners.
Hai Tien Lo
Hai Tien Lo is a high-end dim sum restaurant located in Orchard, Singapore. It is known for its luxurious decor and exquisite dim sum dishes, such as the steamed scallop dumplings and the crispy prawn cheong fun. Hai Tien Lo is a great option for a special occasion or a fancy night out.
Wah Lok
Wah Lok is a high-end dim sum restaurant located in Carlton Hotel, Singapore. It is known for its luxurious decor and exquisite dim sum dishes, such as the steamed abalone siew mai and the crispy fried prawn dumplings. Wah Lok is a great option for a special occasion or a fancy night out.
Yan Ting
Yan Ting is a high-end dim sum restaurant located in St. Regis, Singapore. It is known for its luxurious decor and exquisite dim sum dishes, such as the steamed lobster dumplings and the crispy fried radish cake. Yan Ting is a great option for a special occasion or a fancy night out.
Jade
Jade is a high-end dim sum restaurant located in Fullerton Hotel, Singapore. It is known for its luxurious decor and exquisite dim sum dishes, such as the steamed foie gras dumplings and the crispy fried prawn rolls. Jade is a great option for a special occasion or a fancy night out.
Madame Fan
Madame Fan is a modern dim sum restaurant located in Beach Road, Singapore. It is known for its creative and Instagram-worthy dim sum dishes
Dim Sum Buffets and High Tea
If you’re a dim sum lover, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of dim sum buffets and high tea options in Singapore. These buffets and high teas are perfect for those who enjoy trying a variety of dim sum dishes without having to order them individually.
One of the popular places for dim sum buffet is Swatow Seafood. Their Dim Sum Hi-Tea Buffet is available from 3pm to 5pm daily and comes with an array of dim sum delights to fill you up. For just S$28.80++ on weekdays and S$31.80++ on weekends, you can indulge in fresh scallop dumplings, golden custard buns, and their iconic gold fish dumplings.
Another great option is TungLok Teahouse. They offer a new dim sum high tea buffet starting from just S$21.80++. You can enjoy a wide range of dim sum dishes such as steamed siew mai, har gow, and char siew bao. The buffet is available from 11am to 5pm on weekdays and 11am to 6pm on weekends.
If you’re looking for an affordable dim sum buffet, Beng Hiang Restaurant is a great choice. For just S$23.80++, you can enjoy free-flow dim sum dishes such as steamed pork ribs with black bean sauce, deep-fried prawn dumplings, and many more.
Other popular options for dim sum buffets and high teas include:
- Hai Tien Lo at Pan Pacific Singapore
- Yum Cha Restaurant
- The Line at Shangri-La Hotel
- Si Chuan Dou Hua at PARKROYAL on Beach Road
Whether you’re looking for a casual dim sum buffet or a fancy high tea experience, Singapore has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Delivery and Takeaway Options
If you’re craving dim sum but don’t feel like leaving the comfort of your home, you’re in luck. Many dim sum restaurants in Singapore offer delivery and takeaway options, making it easy to enjoy your favourite dishes without leaving your house.
With a wide variety of options available, you’re sure to find a restaurant that suits your taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for high-end Cantonese cuisine or a quick and affordable meal, there’s something for everyone.
Some popular dim sum restaurants that offer delivery and takeaway options include:
- Sum Dim Sum: This relatively new restaurant along Jalan Besar Road offers an extensive selection of delicious dim sum. Their aesthetically pleasing containers make for Instagram-worthy shots.
- Yumcha Express: Yumcha Express offers a hassle-free dim sum experience right at your doorstep. They offer popular dim sum dishes as well as in-house specialties, and even frozen dim sum for a convenient meal at your convenience.
- Swee Choon: Swee Choon is a household name when it comes to dim sum in Singapore. They offer islandwide delivery and takeaway options, so you can enjoy their famous dishes from the comfort of your own home.
- Yi Dian Xin: This underrated dim sum restaurant offers delicious dishes at affordable prices. They offer islandwide delivery and takeaway options, so you can enjoy their dishes without breaking the bank.
With so many options available, you can enjoy your favourite dim sum dishes without leaving your house. Just sit back, relax, and wait for your delicious meal to arrive.
Dim Sum Dining Experience
If you are looking for a unique dining experience in Singapore, dim sum is a must-try. With its bite-sized portions and delicious flavours, dim sum is a popular brunch or lunch option for locals and tourists alike. Here are some things to consider for your next dim sum dining experience.
Ambience and Service
Dim sum restaurants in Singapore come in a variety of styles and settings. Some restaurants offer a traditional Chinese ambience with pushcarts and bustling crowds, while others offer a more modern and upscale environment. The level of service can also vary from restaurant to restaurant. Some places may have attentive servers who are knowledgeable about the dishes, while others may have a more casual and laid-back atmosphere.
If you prefer a more traditional dim sum experience, head to Chinatown or Ang Mo Kio Ave. These areas have some of the most authentic and affordable dim sum restaurants in Singapore. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more upscale experience, try Orchard Road or Marina Bay. These areas have some of the fanciest and priciest dim sum restaurants in Singapore.
Location and Price
Dim sum is available all over Singapore, with many restaurants located in shopping malls and food courts. For example, you can find dim sum at Nex, AMK Hub, and Chinatown Point. These locations are convenient and affordable, making them a great option for a quick and casual meal.
If you are looking for a more upscale experience, head to Marina Bay or Orchard Road. These areas have some of the most luxurious and expensive dim sum restaurants in Singapore. However, if you are on a budget, there are still plenty of affordable options available.
In conclusion, dim sum is a unique and exciting dining experience in Singapore. Whether you prefer a traditional or modern setting, there is a dim sum restaurant for everyone. With its delicious flavours and bite-sized portions, dim sum is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best dim sum in Singapore?
If you’re looking for the best dim sum in Singapore, you’re in luck! Singapore is home to many amazing dim sum restaurants, each with their unique flavour and style. Some of the most highly recommended dim sum restaurants in Singapore include Tim Ho Wan, Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant, and Din Tai Fung. You can also check out our list of the best dim sum restaurants in Singapore for more options.
What are some highly-rated dim sum restaurants in Singapore?
Singapore has no shortage of highly-rated dim sum restaurants. Some of the most popular ones include Yan Ting, Jade Palace Seafood Restaurant, and Crystal Jade Golden Palace. You can also check out our list of the top 10 best dim sum in Singapore for more options.
Are there any Michelin-starred dim sum restaurants in Singapore?
Yes, there are! Some of the Michelin-starred dim sum restaurants in Singapore include Tim Ho Wan, Lei Garden, and Crystal Jade Palace. These restaurants are known for their exquisite dim sum dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
What are some popular places for yum cha in Singapore?
Yum cha, which means “drink tea” in Cantonese, is a popular pastime in Singapore. Some of the most popular places for yum cha include Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant, Dim Sum Haus Sg @ Jalan Besar, and The Dim Sum Place. These restaurants offer a wide variety of delicious dim sum dishes that are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Which restaurant serves the best Imperial Treasure Dim Sum in Singapore?
Imperial Treasure is a well-known restaurant chain that specializes in Chinese cuisine, including dim sum. If you’re looking for the best Imperial Treasure dim sum in Singapore, we recommend checking out Imperial Treasure Fine Teochew Cuisine, which is known for its exquisite dim sum dishes.
Where can I find delicious dim sum in Chinatown, Singapore?
Chinatown is a great place to find delicious dim sum in Singapore. Some of the most popular dim sum restaurants in Chinatown include Yum Cha Chinatown, Si Chuan Dou Hua Restaurant, and Majestic Restaurant. These restaurants offer a wide variety of dim sum dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.