Let us tell you dumpling good – we’ve tried and tested some of the best dim sum places in Singapore, and here’s what we’ve got!
Dim sum, a beloved Chinese meal of small plates, is perfect for sharing with family and friends — and in Singapore, there are plenty of family-friendly spots to yum cha! Think of it like Chinese tapas, with dumplings, buns, and other goodies that everyone can grab and share. Almost everything is bite-sized and it’s all to encourage conversation and social interaction around the table.
The act of eating dim sum is commonly known as “Yum Cha”, actually means “to drink tea” in Cantonese. Because tea is such a quintessential part of the dim sum ritual. Since it’s traditionally eaten during breakfast and brunch when people had their morning tea, we think dim sum might be the first-ever brunch in the world! What do you think?
This iconic fare has deep roots in China’s Guangdong region, originating as a snack for travellers on the Silk Road. It all started in the tea houses of Guangzhou in the 19th century, after opium dens were banned, where visitors stopped for a bite to eat. Over time, dim sum spread far beyond Guangdong, eventually reaching Hong Kong and beyond. Today, it’s enjoyed worldwide — with each culture putting its twist on the tradition!
One of the best parts about dim sum is the ordering process — fun and interactive, perfect for kids to join in too! Start with a pot of tea (pour for others first to follow tradition), then either check off your choices on a menu card or wave down those famous dim sum carts loaded with goodies. The carts are especially fun for little ones, as they can see the dishes before you order! Want a tea refill? Just pop the lid on top of the pot as a signal to your waiter.
Must-try dim sum dishes
Not sure where to begin? Dim sum offers a little something for everyone! Here are some must-try dishes that both kids and adults will love:
- Shumai (Siu Mai): Tasty pork or shrimp dumplings wrapped in a thin, round wrapper — a classic favourite.
- Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings): Translucent wrappers stuffed with shrimp, always a crowd-pleaser.
- Xiaolong Bao (Soup Dumplings): Delicate dumplings filled with hot broth and pork — sip carefully!
- Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns): Fluffy white buns stuffed with sweet, sticky BBQ pork — perfect for little hands.
- Chicken Feet: This is a more adventurous option, braised in black bean sauce, for those willing to try something new.
- Cheong Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls): Soft steamed rice noodles wrapped around shrimp or crispy filling — a hit with everyone.
- Egg Tart (Dan Tat): Sweet custard-filled pastries to end on a high note.
While many traditional dim sum dishes feature pork or other non-halal ingredients, don’t worry — we’ve got EVERYONE covered. Singapore is home to some fantastic halal dim sum options, where you can enjoy the same beloved dishes like shumai, har gow, and even BBQ buns, but made with halal-friendly alternatives.
Ready to dive in? Here’s a list of Singapore’s top dim sum spots where your family can indulge in this fun and delicious tradition!
Best dim sum places in Singapore
1. Yum Cha Restaurant
Where better to experience this iconic Chinese fare than at Chinatown? Even the entire restaurant looks like an old-school dim sum house. The Chinatown outlet is tucked on the second floor and you’ll need to access the lifts from the side of the building. Our favourites here are the fried carrot cake, char siew buns, and the prawn & mango fritters. Cant get enough? Try their weekday high-tea buffet starting from $32.80++ for adults.
Where: Yum Cha Restaurant, outlets at Chinatown and Changi Business Park
2. Red Star Restaurant
Mention dim sum to any food-loving locals and they’ll tell you all about Red Star Restaurant. Not because the food is lip-smacking-ly good (it’s good enough!) but because this stalwart in Singapore’s dim sum scene serves up all the right yum cha vibes! Think retro Chinese restaurant decor and piping hot dim sum on pushcarts served at top speed — because they get really crowded on the weekends. It’s giving nostalgic Hong Kong eatery, including the sometimes grouchy aunty, which just adds to the experience. Our go-to orders include the fluffy char siew bao, har gow, chicken feet, and their simple yet flavourful porridge. Fun fact: it was opened by one of the “Four Heavenly Kings” of Cantonese cuisine in Singapore in the 1970s. That’s how long it’s been around!
Where: Red Star Restaurant, 54 Chin Swee Rd, #07-23, Singapore 160054
3. Tim Ho Wan
This well-known, one-Michelin star restaurant (pictured up top) hailing from Hong Kong, AKA dim sum land, is kicking off this dim sum roundup. There used to be snaking queues when it first opened, and by Singapore logic, a long queue is equivalent to “good stuff!” These days, it’s easier to get a seat, given its expansion across the island. One of its most raved-about items that you should nom on is its baked barbecue pork bun. You won’t be able to stop at just one!
Where: Tim Ho Wan, multiple locations across the island, including Marina Bay Sands and Jewel Changi Airport
4. Swee Choon
Dim sum is typically a daytime dish. But at Swee Choon, you can have it after your date night (sans kids!) or even as a supper treat after a late-night cycling trip. This homegrown brand has been serving bao-tiful plates of dim sum since 1962 and is showing no signs of slowing down! If you’re looking for an affordable place, this restaurant should be one of your go-to’s.
Where: Swee Choon, outlets at Jalan Besar, Tampines and Ang Mo Kio
5. Chopsuey Cafe
Dempsey Hill is a neighbourhood that we can never get enough of. And if you’re there on a weekend for some much-needed fam time, drop by this cafe for a dim sum brunch! Start off your meal with the Dim Sum Basket before moving on to its Asian-fusion dishes. You’ll appreciate the “plate-sharing” concept here – no food envy, and someone else can finish off if your kid has had enough.
Where: Chopsuey Cafe, 10 Dempsey Road, #01-23, Singapore 249549
6. Din Tai Fung
If you’re new to dim sum, this is a great place for your introduction. This kid-friendly resto serves up a selection of its signature yum cha faves such as xiao long bao, shao mai, and steamed buns. Psst, the sesame buns and xiao long baos are a hit with the little ones! With so many outlets across the island, just walk into anyone and enjoy your dim sum feast.
Where: Din Tai Fung, various locations across Singapore
7. Peach Garden
What’s even better than a dim sum lunch? A dim sum buffet! Visit Peach Garden’s branch at Chinatown Point for a spot of high tea and a la carte buffet between 3 and 5pm. Or, enjoy fine dining and an amazing view across the Singapore River at its OCBC Centre outlet. If you still have stomach space after your yum cha spread, get the Wasabi Prawns, one of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
Where: Peach Garden, locations include Thomson Plaza and Hotel Miramar
8. Sum Dim Sum
If you’d like Sum Dim Sum (ahem), this establishment at Jalan Besar is where you can get some… (Alright we’ll cool it with the puns…). Its Signature Crispy Pork Buns are offered a little different compared to other places, namely its crusty green skin. Another unique rendition is the XL Prawn Dumplings, which is as blue as the storefront. In short, expect IG-worthy dishes that’ll have your followers scrambling to try them out too…
Where: Sum Dim Sum, 161 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208876, 50 Punggol East, Singapore 828826 and 900 Bedok North Road, HometeamNS Bedok #02-02, Singapore 479994
9. 126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi
Here’s another dim sum spot that’s wallet-friendly and can give Swee Choon a run for its money. Plus, its outlet in Geylang is open 24 hours while the Serangoon outlet opens till 4am, meaning you can satisfy your dim sum desires even way past midnight or very early in the morn. There’s a lot to choose from! One memorable thing for our kids is that they serve drinks in a takeaway plastic bowl.
Where: 126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi, 126 Sims Avenue, Singapore 387449 and 1086 Serangoon Road, Singapore 328187
10. Social Place
Is there such a thing as Instagrammable dim sum? Of course, if you’re dining at Social Place! The Hong Kong brand has brought its creative and playful approach to dim sum to our shores, and we’re here for it. Kids will enjoy the jiggly Small Pig Pudding, which comes in the shape of a pig (yes, very meta). Upload this dessert on your IG and wow your followers with its cuteness! We also liked the very pretty Mahjong Jelly and Truffle Shiitake Buns. A feast for the eyes and stomach.
Where: Social Place, Forum the Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Road, #01-22, Singapore 238884
11. Crystal Jade
Everyone knows of this restaurant that has garnered one Michelin star and multiple Michelin Bib Gourmand awards. But did you know that Crystal Jade is a Singapore-based brand? Now you do! Plus, our colleagues regard it as one of the best places for xiao long bao. If that still didn’t convince you, just pop by any of its outlets and decide for yourself. While you’re there, don’t forget to sample its har gao, carrot cake, and siew mai with fish roe.
Where: Crystal Jade, several locations across Singapore
12. Cherry Garden
We know one place where you can enjoy dim sum in a truly opulent setting – Cherry Garden at Mandarin Oriental Singapore. Marvel at the antique wooden doorway as you’re ushered in, before settling down for your decadent yum cha. The dim sum selection may seem like the standard fare, but the fresh produce used in making them elevate the dishes. Try out the steamed crystal dumpling with fresh mushrooms and black truffle. You’ll be going for more after your first helping.
Where: Cherry Garden, Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Marina Square, 5 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039797
13. Hai Tien Lo
Located within Pan Pacific Singapore is this award-winning restaurant that deftly serves up Cantonese cuisine with a modern twist. You can choose to have your dim sum a la carte or buffet style; we suggest you go for the Weekend Dim Sum Brunch Buffet with your fam or gal pals for the ultimate yum cha indulgence. It’s pricey, yes, but oh so worth it! Psst, do remember to dress up as the restaurant enforces a strict smart-casual dress code. Talk about fancy, yo.
Where: Hai Tien Lo, Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard Level 3, Singapore 039595
14. Jade
You might not be able to drop money for a staycay at The Fullerton Hotel, but you can go for the next best option: Jade, the signature restaurant within the hotel. Its weekend yum cha carries classic dim sum delights such as prawn dumplings and crispy har jeong gai, alongside exciting creations like bak kut teh xiao long bao and Okinawa brown sugar char siew bun. The beautiful space lends a decadent touch to your dining experience, too.
Where: Jade, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, 1 Fullerton Square, Singapore 049178
15. Red House Seafood
This long-standing restaurant may specialise in seafood delicacies, but it’s a favourite for dim sum feasts too. There are many dishes to savour here, from the steamed rice roll with you tiao to the lotus leaf glutinous rice. The barbeque pork char siew flaky pastry is calling out to us! Do note that some items are only available for one-time orders; you can still yum cha and fill your tummies with the remaining unlimited items. You’ll want to keep up with them on socials for promotions such as a dim sum and champagne brunch buffet or cool collabs like one with White Rabbit (yes, the candy brand!).
Where: Red House Seafood, locations at Havelock Road, River Valley Road, and Prinsep Street
16. Paradise Dynasty
At Paradise Dynasty, dim sum gets a fun, flavourful twist, making it the perfect spot for family dining! Their famous xiao long bao comes in a rainbow of exciting flavours — from rich crab roe and creamy cheese to bold garlic, fiery Korean kimchi, and spicy Szechuan. It’s an adventure for your taste buds, with something for everyone to love! Try their indulgent foie gras and black truffle xiao long bao for a real treat — a fancy twist the grown-ups will adore! Beyond the dumplings, they offer a mix of northern and southern Chinese dishes, perfect for family feasting with a creative touch.
Where: Paradise Dynasty, various outlets in Singapore
17. Victor’s Kitchen
Victor’s Kitchen brings the taste of Hong Kong to Singapore in a cosy kopitiam setting. Helmed by a chef from the renowned Victoria Hotel, this spot serves up authentic Hong Kong-style dim sum with a relaxed vibe. From classic prawn dumplings and carrot cake to their popular ‘Bo Lo’ char siew butter buns, it’s all here. But the real showstopper? The famous Golden Egg Yolk Lava Buns — soft, fluffy, and oozing with gooey goodness. Plus, everything is wallet-friendly, making it the perfect spot for a tasty yum cha anytime of the day!
Where: Victor’s Kitchen, Sunshine Plaza, 91 Bencoolen Street, #01-49, Singapore 189652 and Chinatown Point, 133 New Bridge Road, #B1-33, Singapore 059413
18. Min Jiang
Min Jiang at Dempsey is a feast for the eyes and taste buds! With its chic, airy space full of natural wood and rattan accents, this fine dining spot feels like a serene escape. The dim sum here, crafted by award-winning Master Chef Goh Chee Kong, is truly a treat. Their Steamed ‘Goldfish’ Prawn Dumplings are almost too cute to eat — these little dumplings look like goldfish “swimming” in a silky egg white sauce and much more! They also have vegetarian options.
Where: Min Jiang, 7A & 7B Dempsey Road, Singapore 249684
19. Canton Paradise
With over 10 locations across Singapore, Canton Paradise makes satisfying yum cha a breeze! Their lunch menu is loaded with classic favourites like lotus paste buns, crispy pork belly, and more. Wherever you are, it’s the perfect spot for a tasty, no-fuss dim sum feast!
Where: Canton Paradise, various outlets across Singapore
20. Dim Sum Haus (temporarily closed)
If you can’t afford Sum Dim Sum and Swee Choon’s just too crowded, pop over to this eating spot just a stone’s throw away from the latter. Menu items that are a must-get when you’re dining there are the Steamed Crispy Rice Roll with Shrimp, Honey BBQ Pork Bun, and Steamed Malay Sponge Cake. Finish off your meal with some Baked Salted Egg Pumpkin Tart.
Where: Dim Sum Haus, 57 Jalan Besar, Singapore 208809
Best halal dim sum places in Singapore
21. The Dim Sum Place
Muslim friends, we have not forgotten about you. This halal-certified eatery is super affordable and, we daresay, as good as its original Cantonese counterpart. We love its Peking Duck Wrap and Crystal Shrimp Dumpling, which satiated our dim sum cravings. Get a few Steamed Milk Buns for the kids to munch on before and after your meal. Makan here soon!
Where: The Dim Sum Place, branches at North Bridge Road, The Centrepoint, Superbowl Jurong and Changi City Point
22. Tang Tea House
Ask any Singaporean for a good supper spot in the east and this place will be highly recommended. This eating house has long been synonymous with halal yet authentic Chinese cuisine, which includes myriad dim sum dishes. The Golden Sand Bun, we’re told, is one that most people would order. If you can handle the heat, then take on the Red Chilli Dumpling. Any adventurous eaters? Go ahead and try out the chicken feet. Now that one’s an acquired taste!
Where: Tang Tea House, outlets at Bedok, Jalan Kayu, Changi, and Jurong West
23. 89.7 Supper Club
This halal-certified hawker centre is one place that you can drop by at any time of the day. Its extensive menu features myriad Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western cuisines, though dim sum is at the top of the list. Apart from the usual offerings like har kow and siew mai, you can also find interesting dishes like Thai-style steamed beancurd roll and coffee pau.
Where: 89.7 Supper Club, 5 Changi Village Road, #01-2035, Singapore 500005 and 1016 Geylang East Avenue 3, #01-165, Singapore 389731
Yum cha wish your dishes were hot like these?
