Best Places in Singapore to Eat Dim Sum
Singapore is a great place for food lovers, and dim sum is no exception. From traditional Cantonese-style dumplings to modern versions, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best places in Singapore to enjoy dim sum:
1. Yan Ting
Location: The St. Regis Singapore
Why Go: Known for its luxurious setting and authentic Cantonese cuisine, Yan Ting offers high-quality dim sum. It’s perfect for special occasions.
Must-Try: Truffle mushroom dumplings, custard buns, and har gow (prawn dumplings).
2. Din Tai Fung
Location: Multiple outlets (Wisma Atria, Paragon, etc.)
Why Go: Famous for its xiao long bao (soup dumplings), Din Tai Fung is a reliable choice for delicious dim sum.
Must-Try: Xiao long bao, shrimp and pork shao mai, and red bean buns.
3. Red Star Restaurant
Location: Chinatown Complex
Why Go: One of the last old-school pushcart dim sum places in Singapore, Red Star offers a nostalgic experience.
Must-Try: Char siew bao (barbecue pork buns), cheong fun (rice noodle rolls), and egg tarts.
4. Summer Pavilion
Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore
Why Go: A Michelin-starred restaurant with exquisite dim sum and a serene ambiance.
Must-Try: Steamed scallop dumplings, baked abalone puff, and crispy prawn rolls.
5. Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant
Location: Jalan Besar
Why Go: Affordable and delicious dim sum, open late for supper.
Must-Try: Mee sua kueh (fried carrot cake), salted egg yolk buns, and siew mai.
6. Crystal Jade Golden Palace
Location: Paragon Shopping Centre
Why Go: Known for refined Cantonese cuisine and high-quality dim sum.
Must-Try: Steamed custard buns, pan-fried radish cake, and steamed prawn dumplings.
7. Kai Garden
Location: Marina Square
Why Go: Offers a modern take on Cantonese dim sum in an elegant setting.
Must-Try: Black truffle xiao long bao, crispy durian puff, and steamed spinach dumplings.
8. Tim Ho Wan
Location: Plaza Singapura, Capitol Piazza, etc.
Why Go: Known as the “world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant,” it’s affordable and delicious.
Must-Try: Baked char siew bao, steamed egg cake, and prawn dumplings.
9. Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant
Location: Carlton Hotel
Why Go: A classic Cantonese restaurant with high-quality dim sum.
Must-Try: Steamed chicken feet, lotus leaf glutinous rice, and custard buns.
10. Yum Cha
Location: Chinatown
Why Go: A cozy restaurant with traditional dim sum and a great tea selection.
Must-Try: Char siew bao, sesame balls, and prawn cheong fun.
Tips for Enjoying Dim Sum in Singapore:
1. Timing: Dim sum is usually served during brunch or lunch, so visit between 10 AM and 3 PM.
2. Tea Pairing: Order tea like pu-erh, jasmine, or chrysanthemum to complement your meal.
3. Sharing: Dim sum is best enjoyed with friends or family so you can try more dishes.
4. Reservations: For high-end restaurants, book a table in advance.
Whether you’re looking for traditional flavors or modern twists, Singapore’s dim sum scene has something for everyone.
