Find the Best Dim Sum Restaurants Conveniently Near You

The Best Dim Sum Restaurants Near You

Craving those delicate little dumplings filled with meat and veggies? Searching for steamed buns stuffed with sweet barbecue pork or crispy sesame balls dripping with ooze? You've come to the right place. This guide will help you find the top dim sum spots located conveniently near you.

What is Dim Sum?

Originating in southern China, dim sum refers to a style of Chinese cuisine prepared as small bite-sized portions. The term literally translates to "touch the heart" referring to the wide array of tiny plates offered that allows diners to sample a variety of flavors and textures. Typical dim sum dishes include:

• Dumplings - filled with meat, seafood, or veggies
• Buns - baked dough with savory or sweet fillings
• Rice rolls - thin rice sheets wrapped around fillings and steamed
• Congee - rice porridge served with mix-ins like chicken, fish, or mushrooms
• Taro cakes - made from mashed taro root fried until crispy

These appetizer-sized plates are usually served on rolling carts that make their way around the restaurant so you can pick and choose what looks good. Playing dim sum is like Chinese-style tapas!

When to Go for Dim Sum

Dim sum is traditionally eaten for breakfast or lunch. Many authentic restaurants serve it during morning hours on weekends when friends and families get together for yum cha, meaning "drink tea" in Cantonese. Sip Chinese tea, nibble on small plates, and catch up on conversation - it's a lovely weekend ritual.

What to Order

With so many options rolling around on carts, dim sum menus can be overwhelming for first-timers. Here are some must-try dishes to look out for:

• Siu Mai - open-topped dumplings filled with pork and shrimp
• Har Gow - translucent dumplings packed with plump shrimp
• Char Siu Bao - pillowy baked buns stuffed with sweet barbecued pork
• Shumai - open-faced dumplings filled with crab or pork
• Spring Rolls - crunchy fried rolls with shrimp, pork, and veggies
• Egg Custard Tarts - sweet egg tarts dusted with powdered sugar

Venture beyond the classics and try some fusion and regional specialties too. There's always something new to discover!

Dim Sum Etiquette

Brush up on dim sum dos and don'ts so you can dig in properly:

• Do signal servers for more dishes - tap the table with two fingers.
• Don't over-order. Wait to see if you want more after finishing some plates.
• Do use chopsticks and spoons only. Forks and knives are not provided.
• Don't pile on lots of chili oil, soy sauce, etc. Dim sum is meant to be eaten as-is.
• Do drink tea paired with dim sum. Hot chrysanthemum and oolong teas are popular choices.

Find Amazing Dim Sum Near You

Now that your mouth is watering for dumplings and buns, it's time to find the closest dim sum hot spots. Here are the top-rated restaurants serving fresh, flavorful dim sum conveniently close to home:

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Dim Sum Dining Tips

Follow these tips for the best dim sum meal:

• Bring a group so you can order more dishes to share.
• Come hungry! Pace yourself so you can try lots of items.
• Ask servers for recommendations if you're unsure what to order.
• Don't be shy about flagging down carts if nothing catches your eye.
• Use soy sauce, chili sauce, and hot mustard sparingly so flavors don't get lost.

Satisfy Your Dim Sum Cravings Nearby

Dim sum is a delightful way to spend a morning or afternoon with friends and family. From juicy dumplings to sweet custard tarts, every bite will dance on your tastebuds. For the best selection of fresh dim sum near you, check out the top-rated restaurants in your area. Just come hungry and leave happy!

FAQs

What are the most popular dim sum dishes?

Some of the most popular dim sum dishes are siu mai (pork and shrimp dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), char siu bao (bbq pork buns), shumai (open-faced pork or crab dumplings), spring rolls, and egg custard tarts.

When is the best time to go for dim sum?

The best time for dim sum is usually breakfast or lunch, when many dim sum restaurants serve their full menu. Dim sum service is traditionally busiest on weekends when families and friends gather for yum cha (drink tea) while enjoying the small plates.

How do you order dim sum?

Most dim sum restaurants serve dishes on rolling carts that make their way around the dining room. Customers can flag down carts and select which dishes they want directly from the carts. You can also signal servers if you need more food by tapping the table.

How much does dim sum cost?

Dim sum is usually very affordable, with most plates ranging from $2-5 each. Of course, pricing can vary by restaurant and region. Expect to pay more at higher-end or Michelin-starred dim sum eateries.

Is there a dress code for dim sum?

Most dim sum restaurants do not have a formal dress code, but casual-nice attire is recommended. Tank tops, shorts, and flip flops are not appropriate, but you don't need to dress up. Think business casual - slacks and a polo or blouse.