31 best dim sum spots in Singapore

Nothing epitomises the saying “good things come in small packages” quite like some good ol’ dim sum. These bite-sized pieces of satisfaction have shaped up to be a perennial favourite comfort food of Singaporeans’.

The origins of their popularity can be traced back to the arrival of early migrants who brought these culinary treasures from Hong Kong to our shores. Dim sum culture has undoubtedly flourished through the decades — it has evolved to include diverse culinary influences from regions like Shanghai and Sichuan, as well as unique local touches. Classics remain well-loved all the same, too.

Needless to say, we Singaporeans love our dim sum and will leap at any opportunity to savour some good ones. So, we’ve researched, tasted and developed this comprehensive guide to the 31 best dim sum spots in Singapore. It was also the perfect excuse to stuff ourselves senseless with liu sha bao (流沙包).

Do note that several restaurants listed here only serve dim sum in the morning until early afternoon, before switching to a different dinner menu. Look out for the stated hours to avoid dimsum-pointment!

—No-frills hawker dim sum—

The only thing better than dim sum is dim sum that doesn’t burn a hole in your wallet, am I right? On that note, here’s a list of no-frills hawker spots with dim sum that is as delicious as they are affordable. 

Do bear in mind that service charges and additional fees for appetisers and napkins apply at several of these spots. Nonetheless, you can expect the damage per person to be no more than S$25.

1. Five Star Hong Kong Style Handmade Dim Sum

Starting this guide off strong is Five Star Hong Kong Style Handmade Dim Sum. This humble establishment entered the dim sum scene just a few years ago in 2021 and has garnered much popularity since. 

Of their 6 outlets islandwide, their most notable one is tucked away in Shun Li Industrial Complex, an industrial building at Sims Drive. This outlet is also the only one that offers zi char dishes (11am – 9pm only) on top of an already-extensive selection of dim sum.

You’ll be in good hands when you dine at Five Star. It’s helmed by Chef Yiu Wah Tai, a seasoned professional in the realm of Cantonese dim sum with over 30 years of experience under his belt.

Their menu features a plethora of delectable dim sum that is handmade with quality ingredients on a daily basis. 

Some familiar favourites include Steamed Prawn Siew Mai (S$5) and Crystal Steamed Prawn Dumplings (S$5), each morsel chock-full of filling encased in silky smooth skins. Another notable item is the Mala Fresh Prawn Beancurd Rolls (S$5), a dish of savoury stuffed beancurd rolls doused in a spicy-sweet Szechuan peppercorn sauce.

If you love char siew in your dim sum, the fluffy BBQ Char Siew Buns (S$4) and hand-crafted HK Char Siew Cheong Fun (S$5) will be right up your alley.

For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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2.  126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi 搵到食

Long-timer 126 Dim Sum Wen Dao Shi 搵到食 has cemented itself as a mainstay of our local dim sum scene and a frequent haunt for many aficionados. The ‘Wen Dao Shi’ in its name, or ‘Wan Dou Sek’ in Cantonese, means ‘found something to eat’ — how cute! Bonus points for the quaint atmosphere, too; you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to 1980s Hong Kong when you dine here.

126 Dim Sum’s menu features one of the largest ranges of dim sum you’ll probably ever lay your eyes on, and affordable ones at that. The best part? Their Sims Ave outlet opens round the clock while the Boon Keng outlet opens until 2am — perfect for quelling those late-night hunger pangs.

Though they’re technically not on the menu, we recommend the freshly-baked Egg Tarts (S$4.50 for 3). These goodies consist of a crispy, flaky crust filled with light and airy custard, tied together by a slight char.

That aside, simply take the chance to go all out with your orders. However, if you don’t know where to start, head straight for the King Siew Mai (S$8.10 for 4), Cha Shao Bao (S$1.40) and Fried Carrot Cake (S$6.20).

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126 Sims Ave, Singapore 387449
+65 6746 4757
Daily: Open 24 hours

1086 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 328187
+65 6297 5032
Daily: 5pm – 2am
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3. Ji Tuo Hong Kong Style Tim Sum

Ji Tuo Hong Kong Style Tim Sum is yet another hidden gem nestled in an industrial complex. This quaint stall sits in the quiet rooftop kopitiam of the SkyTech building situated in the heartlands of Bukit Batok. 

Now, don’t give it a skip just because of its ‘ulu’ location; brave the journey and you’ll be rewarded with delicious dim sum against picturesque rooftop views of the neighbourhood and forests on the horizon.

Don’t expect to see a sprawling menu like you would at better-known establishments. Ji Tuo’s has just 14 items for you to pick from; you could practically order the whole menu if you’re dining in a big group.

Where steamed items are concerned, we recommend the Siew Mai (S$2.50 for 3 pieces) and the Steamed Shrimp Dumpling (S$3.50 for 3 pieces), both of which star meticulously-crafted morsels stuffed with juicy meat and shrimp filling respectively.

As for the fried goodies, get the Fried Carrot Cake (S$3 for 3 pieces) which has an addictive crispy exterior and silky, chewy interior. There’s also much to shout about the Crispy Beancurd Skin Roll (S$2.50 for 3 pieces), which features a tasty minced meat filling encased in a light crispy skin. Don’t forget to pair these with their hae bee-laced sambal.

2 Bukit Batok St 24, SkyTech, #09-18, Singapore 659480
+65 8150 8784
Sat to Mon, Wed & Thu: 7.30am – 3pm
Closed on Tue & Fri
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4. Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant

As one of Singapore’s oldest and most renowned roadside dim sum places, Swee Choon requires absolutely no introduction.

One of the most wonderful things about Swee Choon is that their flagship Jalan Besar outlet stays open into the wee hours of the morning. It has thus become a popular spot among supper seekers and ravenous late-night party people.

It also goes without saying that their extensive menu of delicious wallet-friendly dim sum is a major draw for many, myself included. As much as we might lament about their (inevitable) price hikes over the years, we’ve got to be grateful that their dim sum remains very much affordable.

In recent years, they’ve opened a 24-hour outlet in Changi Airport as well as several Swee Choon Express takeaway kiosks islandwide. Yay, convenience!

While you can’t go wrong with most of their dim sum, their signature Mee Suah Kueh (S$3.80 for 2 pieces) is a definite must-try. These fried slabs of vermicelli goodness, packed with bits of shrimp and Chinese sausage, are crispy on the outside and bouncy on the inside.

Where are my fellow liu sha lovers? I fervently recommend the Salted Egg Custard Yolk Bao (S$4.80 for 3) and Sweet Potato Salted Egg Custard Ball (S$4.30 for 2). These morsels ooze with the most indulgent molten custard that’ll have you ordering them in multiples.

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For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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5. Victor’s Kitchen

With a centrally-located outlet in Sunshine Plaza and another in Chinatown Point, Victor’s Kitchen is a convenient spot for you to satisfy your dim sum cravings. It gets really packed at lunch and dinner times, though, so you best make a reservation or visit during off-peak hours to secure your fix.

Victor’s Kitchen stands among the ‘more expensive’ joints within this section of no-frills hawker dim sum. It’s a happy problem, to be honest; they’ve raised prices in recent years due to their growing popularity — in that sense, you essentially know that you’re paying for quality.

You can rest assured that you’ll be getting bang for your buck, too — the size of their dim sum is larger than average. They also punch above their price points by incorporating unique spins in classic dishes. Take the Steamed Carrot Cake with XO Sauce (S$5.30) and the vegetable and prawn-loaded “Spring Is In The Air” Cheong Fun (S$5.80) for example.

Oh, I forgot to mention that they tout their Golden Egg Yolk Lava Bun (S$5.70 for 3 pieces) as the ‘#1 Custard Buns in Singapore’. Why not give that a whirl? You might very well be nodding your head in agreement.

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For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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6. Yi Dian Xin Hong Kong Dim Sum 一点心

Yi Dian Xin Hong Kong Dim Sum 一点心 is the undoubted epitome of no-frills, fuss-free and affordable hawker dim sum. Located along the popular midnight supper stretch of Upper Serangoon, it is easy to miss this little corner shop with massive crowds for Teochew porridge right beside them.

Chef Foong, the mastermind behind Yi Dian Xin, brings over 25 years of culinary experience to the table, including a notable stint at the Tung Lok restaurant group.

The dim sum at Yi Dian Xin are well-worth the price in terms of quality. If we had to pick favourites, try the Yi Dian Xin Prawn Dumpling (S$4.20 for 3 pieces) and Signature Salted Egg Custard Bun (S$4.20 for 3 pieces). Just look at that gorgeous yellow custard; need we say more?

Alternatively, go for the unique Otah & Chicken Siew Mai (S$3.80 for 3 pieces) or Chicken Claw with Black Pepper Sauce (S$3.50) if you fancy.

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1014 Upper Serangoon Road, Singapore 534752
+65 9168 5587
Mon, Wed & Thu: 7am – 3pm
Fri to Sun: 7am – 3pm & 5pm – 8pm
Closed on Tue
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7. Fu Yuan Handmade Dim Sum (吉隆坡富园手工点心•包)

Fu Yuan Handmade Dim Sum (吉隆坡富园手工点心 • 包) is a relatively hidden dim sum place in Clementi West. It’s also worth noting that they share a coffeeshop with the famous Ah Hoe Mee Pok.

The stall-owner, originally from Kuala Lumpur, travelled to Hong Kong many years ago to master the art of making pau before returning to his hometown to kickstart his dim sum business. It wasn’t until 2016 that he decided to move it to Singapore, where his children work and reside.

The irresistible range of baos, handcrafted with a secret technique, take centre stage at Fu Yuan. Some must-tries include their signature Liu Sha Bao (S$1), brimming with luscious salted egg custard, and the Kou Rou Bao (S$1.80), packed with tender braised pork belly. 

Another noteworthy mention is the Ji Wo Bao (S$4), which translates to ‘chicken nest bun’. This unique nest-shaped creation features tasty glutinous rice adorned with chicken and shiitake mushrooms, all cradled in a steamed bun. Its sizable portion definitely justifies its steep price point.

If you thought that the West of Singapore doesn’t have good food, Fu Yuan begs to differ.

710 Clementi West Street 2, Singapore 120710
Wed to Mon: 5.30am – 5pm
Closed on Tue

8. Dim Sum Express

Do you remember S$1.30 Dim Sum? Well, following recent price hikes, their dishes are now priced at S$1.50 each instead of S$1.30 each. Swiftly adapting to the change, they’ve rebranded themselves as Dim Sum Express. Their new Chinese name (筷餐点心, kuai can dian xin) isn’t too far a cry from their previous one (块三点心, kuai san dian xin).

You’ll find them on just about every list of supper spots in Singapore. They’re a popular establishment with various 24-hour stalls situated in heartland kopitiams throughout the island.

Dim Sum Express’s main draw has to be their incredibly affordable menu, with every dish priced at S$1.50. No joke, even the congee bowls and baskets of seafood-filled dim sum cost just S$1.50. As expected, lunch and dinner crowds tend to be pretty huge; you’ll want to visit during off-peak hours.

Try the Century Egg Pork Porridge (S$1.50) if you’re in search of comfort food. Thick, creamy and served in a substantial portion, it’s simple yet satisfying.

Other options that’ll give you bang for your buck include Paper Wrapped Chicken (S$1.50) and Prawn Chee Cheong Fun (S$1.50). You can also count on the classics here, such as Siew Mai (S$1.50 for 3 pieces), Prawn Dumpling (S$1.50 for 3 pieces) and Steamed Yam Cake (S$1.50).

Of course, they also offer a range of traditional steamed baos such as Big Bao (S$1.50), Char Siew Bao (S$1.50 for 2 pieces) and Custard Bao (S$1.50 for 2 pieces), just to name a few.

For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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9. Uncle Kun’s Delicacies (根叔美食世家)

Sometimes, the best dim sum comes from the stalls tucked away in our hawker centres. Uncle Kun’s Delicacies (根叔美食世家) is one such gem where you can enjoy quality Hong Kong dim sum at wallet-friendly prices.

Uncle Kun’s Delicacies is named after its Hong Kong-born owner Chef Lam Kun, affectionately known as Uncle Kun. Having been in the F&B business since he was 13 years old, he brings decades of experience to every dish.

He arrived in Singapore in 1978 and worked in Shangri-La Hotel’s Shang Palace. He also served as the head chef and consultant of Mouth Restaurant for 15 years before retiring. Restless at home, he then decided to open his own stall at Toa Payoh Vista Market in 2003.

You have to try their most iconic dish, the Oblong Lor Mai Kai 长形糯米鸡 (S$4.30). This one-of-a-kind dish, created by Uncle Kun, can only be found here in the whole of Singapore. This unique lor mai kai is studded with a generous amount of ingredients such as chicken, salted egg, Chinese sausage, dried shrimps, dried scallops and mushrooms.

Another popular dish worth a try is the Signature Yam Cake (S$2.80). Here, 2 large slabs of yam cake are doused in a generous amount of savoury sauce and garnished with spring onions, fried shallots and peanuts.

The dishes at Uncle Kun’s Delicacies are almost on par with the ones from Cantonese restaurants, so pay a visit if you’re in the area.

74 Lorong 4 Toa Payoh, Toa Payoh Vista Market, #01-03, Singapore 310074
+65 8556 7133
Thu to Sun: 6am – 12pm
Closed on Mon, Tue & Wed

10. Sum Dim Sum

Sum Dim Sum offers dim sum that’s slightly pricier than those from hawker stalls but is well worth the price. Besides, you can’t really complain while enjoying your dim sum in air-conditioned comfort.

It is well-noted as the more atas alternative to Swee Choon, considering how both establishments have their flagship outlets situated across the road from each other in Jalan Besar.

When in doubt at a dim sum place, go for the char siew buns. Sum Dim Sum’s Signature Crispy Pork Bun (S$5.50 for 3 pieces) features honeyed char siew encased in crispy green-hued pandan shells. Don’t forget to take a shot for ‘gram before devouring them!

Another Instagram-worthy dish is the XL Prawn Dumplings (S$6 for 3 pieces). Made with butterfly pea flowers, this striking Tiffany blue har gao might be the prettiest you’ll ever lay eyes on. And yes, this dumpling is as delicious as it is beautiful.

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For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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11. Bei-Ing Dim Sum Club

Fancy a unique twist on your dim sum? Bei-Ing Dim Sum Club, located at The Bullion Hawker Bar along East Coast Road, has just what you’re looking for. This modern dim sum concept, the brainchild of the folks behind Bei-Ing Wanton Noodle, boasts a variety of ultra-unique dim sum dishes — think truffle, aburi mentai and squid ink variations.

You can’t deny the allure of that basket of jet black dumplings — they’re none other than the Truffle Xiao Long Bao (S$4.50 for 3).

Other interesting options that’ll either entice you or have you raising your eyebrows include the Cheesy Chicken Pizza Pau (S$1.80), Cocoa Chocolate Lava Pau (S$1.80) and the Aburi-Mentai Siu Mai (S$4.50 for 3), which features siu mai topped with smoky torched mentaiko mayonnaise.

Fret not if you’re more of a dim sum purist; there are plenty of traditional options available as well. Opt for the fruity yet savoury Sesame Mango Prawn Fritter (S$4.50 for 3 pieces), nutty Custard-Lava Sesame Ball (S$4.50 for 3) or the comforting Steamed Chicken Yam Wrap (S$4.50).

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396 East Coast Rd, The Bullion Hawker Bar, Singapore 428994
+65 9046 7176
Mon, Wed & Fri: 11am – 8.30pm
Tue, Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 8.30pm
Thu: 10.30am – 7.30pm
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—Quality casual restaurant dim sum—

Moving on, let’s highlight some casual restaurants where you can enjoy great dim sum in comfort. While the prices you see here are a little steeper than what you’d find at hawker stalls, they’re perfectly justified considering the exceptional quality you receive. Besides, the ambience and service standards at these restaurants more than make up for the hole you might be burning in your wallet.

We recommend making reservations for these restaurants in advance so you can await dim sum dates with peace of mind.

12.  Peach Garden 桃苑

The very first Peach Garden 桃苑 opened in Novena Garden in 2002 as a place for connoisseurs of Cantonese cuisine to gather. Since then, their success has propelled them to open to multiple outlets islandwide.

Peach Garden offers a modern chic atmosphere and features a mix of Asian cuisines, including dishes with Thai influences. Boasting a clean and inviting ambience that appeals and caters to a wide range of diners, their restaurants are ideal spots for both business and family dinners. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice with their extensive dim sum menu. Some must-try items are the Steamed Creamy Custard Buns (S$6.65), Fried Carrot Cake with XO Chilli Sauce (S$12.10) and Steamed Siew Mai with Fish Roe (S$6.65).

Be sure to stay tuned to Peach Garden’s website and socials as they offer exciting promotions from time to time. At the moment, you can enjoy their Afternoon Dim Sum Buffet available from 3pm to 5pm on weekends at their Thomson Plaza outlet. Priced at S$28.90++/adult and SS$19.80++/child, it includes all the dim sum you could possibly eat and very conscientious service.

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For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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13. Imperial Treasure Cantonese Cuisine 御寶

Imperial Treasure Cantonese Cuisine, a part of the Imperial Treasure group, stands out for its exceptional dim sum selection. While other branches also offer great dim sum, the most extensive and exceptional range can be found at this specific outlet in Great World.

With a primary focus on authenticity, Imperial Treasure Cantonese Cuisine serves exquisitely crafted dim sum prepared by their skilled Hong Kong chefs. Regardless of the number of times you dine here, the quality remains consistently high.

The dim sum dishes with fresh prawn are crunchy and delicious, like the Steamed Crispy Rice Roll with Shrimp (S$14 per plate) and the classic Steamed Pork & Shrimp Dumpling ‘Siew Mai’ (S$8.80 for 4 pieces).

Try some of the dishes that you don’t see often at other dim sum places — the Marinated Duck Tongue (S$18) certainly isn’t for the faint-hearted.

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1 Kim Seng Promenade, Great World, #02-112, Singapore 237994
+65 6732 2232
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm & 6pm – 11pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 11pm
*Dim Sum available during lunch seatings only
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14. Mouth Restaurant 地茂馆

Established in the 1980s, Mouth Restaurant 地茂馆 first opened its doors in Chinatown before relocating and settling down in Maxwell. Nonetheless, they’ve maintained their reputation for freshly handmade dim sum.

With a revamped menu, Mouth Restaurant now presents innovative dishes like Mouth’s Prawn Har Gao (S$7), which comes in a spectrum of colours and flavours with the likes of Squid Ink, Spinach, Sweet Potato, Pumpkin, Carrot and Original.

The Steamed Char Siew Bao (S$4.60) and Steamed Char Siew Rice Roll (S$6.20) are 2 dishes you should try as well. And don’t forget their famous Top 10 Baked Cream of Salted Egg Yolk Bun (S$6.60 for 3 pieces), which features oozy salted egg custard filling encased in crispy bolo buns.

38 Maxwell Road, Airview Building, #01-01/02, Singapore 069116
+65 6534 4233
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 10am – 4pm & 6pm – 10pm
*Dim Sum available on weekdays only
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15. Chopsuey Cafe

The trendy Chopsuey Cafe isn’t your regular dim sum restaurant; instead, it presents plenty of innovative twists on classic Chinese dishes. Expect a sophisticated casual dining experience at this establishment, run by the same folks behind the popular P.S. Cafe chain.

Unlike traditional dim sum spots in Singapore, it boasts an elegant contemporary interior, befitting of its location in the ever-glamorous neighbourhood of Dempsey Hill.

One (literally) eye-catching item on their menu is the Dim Sum Basket (S$19 for 6 pieces, S$26 for 9 pieces). It features an array of vibrantly-coloured creations — think luxurious reimaginations such as Crispy Lobster Wantons and Orange Duck Dumplings.

If you’d like something more traditional though, Chopsuey Cafe’s menu also has a lot of traditional dim sum you’ll find in other restaurants in Singapore including Char Siew Pau (S$9 for 3 pieces) and Traditional Har Gao (S$10 for 4 pieces).

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10 Dempsey Rd, Dempsey Hill, #01-23, Singapore 247700
+65 6708 9288
Sun to Thu: 11am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 11.30pm
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16. Chao Yue Xuan

Chao Yue Xuan, situated in the atas Capitol Building, is a casual dim sum restaurant that saw humble beginnings in the basement of Junction Nine in Yishun. It’s helmed by brothers Chef Vanness and Sean Chai, both of whom bring a wealth of experience as Head Dim Sum Chef at St. Regis and Head congee & noodle chef at Crystal Jade respectively.

Needless to say, Chao Yue Xuan has a menu that showcases both of their fortes, specialising in all-day handmade dim sum, noodles and congee.

First things first, you have your standard traditional Cantonese dim sum such as Steamed BBQ Pork Bun (S$7.80 for 3 pieces), Siew Mai (S$6.80 for 3 pieces) and Har Gao (S$7.80 for 3 pieces).

However, here’s where the menu gets more exciting. On the list of Chef’s Recommendations are several unique creations such as the ‘Snow Pear’ Dumpling with Honey BBQ Pork (S$7.80 for 3 pieces), Deep Fried Black Pepper ‘Man Tou’ (S$9.80 for 3 pieces) and the Master Chef Swan Crisp (S$15.80 for 3 pieces), a taro dumpling cleverly fashioned into the likeness of a swan.

They even put creative spins on the crowd favourite xiao long bao, with the likes of Steamed Golden Soup Crab Meat Xiao Long Bao (S$9.80 for 3 pieces) clad in yellow skin, and the Steamed Bak Kut Teh Dumpling (S$9.80), a super-sized xiao long bao filled with the beloved porky soup.

13 Stamford Rd, Capitol Singapore, #B2-51/52, Singapore 178905
+65 8921 1929
Daily: 11am – 9pm
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—Premium ‘tai-tai’ dim sum—

Ah, the atas (upscale), expensive stuff. These hotel restaurants demand deep pockets or are typically reserved for special occasions. With great food, excellent ambience and top-notch service, you really will get what you pay for.

It’s also worth mentioning that several of these restaurants offer exquisite dim sum buffets for you to indulge to your heart’s content.

17. Hua Ting Restaurant 华厅餐厅

Established in 1992, Hua Ting Restaurant 华厅餐厅 boasts a stellar reputation in the culinary scene. It’s by Hong Kong Masterchef Lap Fai, crowned Asian Cuisine Chef of the Year 2012 at the World Gourmet Series Awards, and stands as an excellent choice for mid- to high-range dim sum.

Based on our experience, we have to say that Hua Ting has the best overall dim sum — every dish we’ve tried was delectably impressive. Given the restaurant’s (unquestionable) popularity, we recommend that you make reservations at least 2 days in advance.

Indulge in delicious favourites like the Signature Baked Mango Chicken Tartlet (S$8.40 for 3 pieces) and double-boiled Cantonese soups such as the Double-boiled Fish Maw Soup (S$45/pax) and Wagyu Beef Soup (S$32/pax). Another must-try is the Custard Bun (S$7.80), which features a thick, creamy filling with a delightful hint of salty graininess, encased in smooth bao skin.

Don’t forget to request for some of their homemade chunky XO chilli sauce to pair with your dim sum as well; you won’t regret it.

442 Orchard Rd, Orchard Hotel, Level 2, Singapore 238879
+65 6739 6666
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
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18. Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant 华乐酒楼

Boasting a long history of accolades, Wah Lok Cantonese Restaurant 华乐酒楼 has long held a reputation as one of Singapore’s finest dim sum establishments. The restaurant, nestled in Carlton Hotel, stands out with its speciality in traditional Cantonese cuisine and dim sum.

While prices at Wah Lok may be slightly steeper than those at regular casual Cantonese restaurants, we assure you that the quality is well worth the expense.

Here, you can order several dim sum selections according to the number of diners rather than by fixed basket sizes. For instance, the unique Shark’s Fin Soup Dumpling sets you back S$20/person and the classic Steamed Cheong Fan Prawn/Barbecued Pork/Beef/Dough Fritter/Scallop costs S$9.80/serving.

Try the Steamed Crab Meat & Egg White Dumpling (S$8.80) and Baked Custard Bun (S$7.50) for a delightful twist on familiar classics. You can’t go wrong with their Baked Mini Egg Tarts (S$6.80), too. 

76 Bras Basah Road, Carlton Hotel, Level 2, Singapore 189558
+65 6311 8188
Mon to Sat: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 6.30pm – 10pm
Sun: 11am – 2.30pm & 6.30pm – 10pm
*Dim Sum available during lunch seatings only
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19. Social Place

If there’s a place that best embodies the ‘tai-tai‘ aspect of dim sum in Singapore, it’s the swanky Social Place located at Orchard. A concept originally founded in Hong Kong, their Instagram-worthy dim sum has garnered plenty of love here as well.

Their menu is diverse but one thing that most people go for is their dim sum, which is elevated with luxe ingredients to match the experience.

A favourite is the fragrant Truffle Shiitake Buns (S$8.80) that’s meticulously moulded into the likeness of a mushroom. Many also swear by the decadent Deep-Fried Lobster Glutinous Puffs (S$9.80 for 3 pieces) and striking Charcoal Custard Buns (S$9.80 for 3 pieces) that overflow with alluring gold custard.

To further tie into that tai-tai vibe, you can also get some of their playful desserts that you’ve probably seen on social media before. Get a laugh out of the adorable Small Pig Pudding (S$7.80), which jiggles uncontrollably when you spank it. There’s also the Mahjong Jelly (S$7.80 for 6 pieces) for those who can’t get enough of the addictive game.

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583 Orchard Rd, FORUM The Shopping Mall, #01-22, Singapore 238884
+65 8870 2288
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 9pm
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20. Yan Ting Restaurant 宴庭

Yan Ting Restaurant 宴庭 offers arguably the best dim sum brunch in Singapore, that is, if you are ready for the bill. Located in The St. Regis Singapore, the restaurant has an interior that seamlessly combines modernity with a distinctive Chinese fine-dining ambience.

However, to have dim sum at this prestigious restaurant comes with a hefty price tag of S$128++ per person for the non-alcoholic weekend a la carte brunch buffet, featuring not only dim sum but also other Cantonese delicacies. 

For those looking to splurge further, go all out with the S$178++ per person dim sum brunch option, which includes wines and beer, or the S$198++ per person option which includes champagne.

Dining at Yan Ting certainly isn’t an everyday affair. For the best experience, opt for the morning seating as it’s less crowded, and the dishes won’t run out as quickly.

29 Tanglin Rd, The St. Regis Singapore, Level 1U, Singapore 247912
+65 6506 6887
Weekend Dim Sum Brunch: 10.30am – 12.30pm & 1pm – 3pm
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21. Man Fu Yuan 满福苑

Man Fu Yuan 满福苑 is a classy Cantonese restaurant nestled within InterContinental Singapore at Bugis. Adorned with butterfly lamps and peony flowers, it exudes a nostalgic yet classy atmosphere perfect for reunion dinners and date nights.

Their Weekend Dim Sum Buffet stands as the second most expensive option on this list (after Yan Ting Restaurant), starting at S$98++ per person for a minimum of 2 diners.

Having a meal here means you’ll get to treat yourself to a delicious array of handcrafted premium dim sum. With over 40 types ranging from signature classics to elegant appetisers and desserts, it’s a surefire way to live the high life.

Be sure to try the exquisite Crispy Filo Prawn Pastry with Wasabi Aioli & Tobiko, which sees wonderfully fried skin paired with the sharp punch of wasabi. And of course, you can count on the Classic Honey-glazed Duroc Barbecued Pork Bun and Steamed Bamboo Charcoal Lava Custard Bun for sophisticated spins on beloved crowd favourites.

80 Middle Rd, InterContinental Singapore, Level 2, Singapore 188966
+65 6825 1008
Weekend Dim Sum Buffet: 11.30am – 1pm & 1.30pm – 3pm
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22. Hai Tien Lo 海天楼

Located conveniently within Pan Pacific Singapore, Hai Tien Lo 海天楼 is yet another restaurant which offers classic Cantonese dishes with a contemporary flair.

My inner kiasu Singaporean simply implores you to opt for Hai Tien Lo’s Yum Cha Lunch. Priced from S$78++ per adult and S$39++ per child (6 to 12 years old), this dim sum buffet may seem pricey, but is definitely worth the splurge.

Each table is entitled to 6 choices from their dim sum selection, including exquisite options like the Steamed Charcoal Barbecue Pork Buns with Black Truffles and Steamed Scallop Dumplings with Seafood & Spinach.

The buffet also offers a variety of main courses and side dishes. Each table can choose up to 2 dishes from the restaurant’s specialities such as Deep-fried Crispy Prawns with Lemon Butter Sauce and Stewed Ee Fu Noodles with Shredded Chicken & Pine Mushrooms. Additionally, there are options from the soup menu including Double-boiled Mini Buddha Jumps Over The Wall and Fish Bone Broth with Australian Scallop, Grouper Fillet, King Prawn & Bamboo Pith.

You’ll also find dishes with Teochew influence, like the Szechuan Steamed Queensland Grouper Fillet with Fresh Chilli & Minced Garlic.

7 Raffles Blvd, Pan Pacific Singapore, Level 3, Singapore 039595
+65 6826 8240
Weekend Dim Sum Buffet: 11.30am – 2.30pm
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23. Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant

For more than 30 years, connoisseurs of fine Cantonese dining have flocked to Xin Cuisine Chinese Restaurant. Its exquisite authentic menus are crafted by some of the most talented chefs from Hong Kong and the experience is elevated by the restaurant’s plush decor.

You’ll find a refined variety of both steamed and fried dim sum on Xin’s menu. Alongside unadulterated classics like Custard Bun with Salted Egg Yolk (S$8.80) and Pork Siew Mai with Wolfberries (S$10.80), there are also zhng-ed options like Abalone Seafood Dumpling (S$12.80) and Pork Xiao Long Bao with Crab Meat & Dried Scallop (S$9.80).

Additionally, there are several uniquely shaped dim sum such as the aptly pumpkin-shaped Deep-fried Pumpkin Dumpling with Seafood Filling (S$9.80) and an elegant swan-shaped Yam Dumpling with Chicken & Seafood Filling (S$9.80).

317 Outram Rd, Holiday Inn Atrium, Singapore 169075
+65 3138 2531
Wed to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm & 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11:30am – 1pm, 1:15pm to 3pm & 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Closed on Mon & Tue
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—Value-for-money dim sum buffets—

Death by dim sum — doesn’t that sound glorious? I’m kidding, but who doesn’t like to stuff their faces with dim sum? I know I do. Here’s a list of spots where you can find dim sum buffets with good variety and quality.

24. Jade 玉楼

Jade 玉楼 at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore is renowned for offering authentic Cantonese cuisine in a beautifully decorated space adorned with overhead lantern lighting and specially commissioned wallpaper.

At S$68++ per person with a minimum of 2 to dine, Jade’s Weekend Yum Cha falls within mid-range buffet brunch pricing and is worth every dollar. You can choose up to 15 items from the menu, which includes signature dim sum, appetisers, soups, mains and dessert.

Among the a la carte items is the sumptuous, savoury Braised Bird’s Nest With Truffled Egg White in Superior Broth (S$42), a great substitute for the usual shark’s fin soup. It contains generous amounts of crab meat and has a fragrant, addictive truffle after-taste.

The fried and baked items at Jade are equally excellent, with the likes of Okinawa Brown Sugar Char Siew Bun (S$10 for 2 pieces) and Pan-Fried Radish Cake (S$10 for 3 pieces), which have crispy yet non-greasy crusts. The extremely well-trained and attentive staff members are a bonus, making this one of the best balanced dim sum buffets.

1 Fullerton Square, The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, Ground Floor, Singapore 049178
+65 3129 8330
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm & 6.30pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 1pm, 1.30pm – 3pm & 6.30pm – 10.30pm
*Weekend Yum Cha Buffet available on weekend lunch seatings only
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25. Yum Cha Restaurant 飲茶酒樓

Yum Cha Restaurant 飲茶酒樓 opened its doors in the heart of Chinatown in 2000 and has remained there ever since, although they now have a second outlet in the far East at Changi Business Park. The casual establishment takes on an unpretentious teahouse setting, complete with old-fashioned dim sum carts, marble tables and wooden chairs.

This dim sum stalwart offers a S$32.80++ Weekday High Tea Dim Sum Buffet (Tue to Fri) from 3pm to 6pm at their Chinatown outlet and from 5.30pm to 10pm at their Changi outlet.

There are over 60 items to choose from, including unique offerings like Coriander Prawn Dumpling, Pan-fried Pork Pancake and Scallop Pea-Shoot Dumpling among many crowd favourites.

They do have an a la carte menu available when the buffet isn’t. However, it’s worth noting that Yum Cha can get quite crowded over the weekends during breakfast and lunch hours, so the buffet probably stands as your best bet at getting a taste of their dim sum.

Order Delivery: foodpanda Deliveroo 

For a list of locations, contact numbers and opening hours, click here.
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26. Peony Jade

Peony Jade is a Szechuan and Cantonese restaurant that has been awarded the prestigious Michelin Plate. It has relocated several times since its 2004 debut in Clarke Quay, moving to the serene Keppel Club in 2008 before finding its current home in the posh AMARA Singapore in the heart of the CBD. The restaurant features high ceilings, quaint red lanterns and great dim sum.

For the best bang for your buck at Peony Jade, you best gather your friends. The Daily Dim Sum Brunch Buffet is priced at S$49.80++ per person on weekdays with a minimum of 4 diners. Plus, for every 4 paying adults, 1 dines for free. On weekends, enjoy a 1-for-1 deal with a minimum of 4 diners, where 2 adults dine for S$136++ instead. For smaller parties of 2 to 3 diners, it’ll cost S$59.80++ and S$75.80++ per person on weekdays and weekends respectively.

You can look forward to a selection of handcrafted Hong Kong-style dim sum, complete with hot and cold desserts. Classic treats include Steamed BBQ Pork Buns, Sesame Banana Prawn Roll and Beancurd Skin Roll with Prawn & Cheese, to name just a few.

The weekend menu includes various indulgent selections such as Baked Lobster with Mozzarella Cheese, Steamed Shanghai Pork Xiao Long Bao and Peony Jade’s Legendary Szechuan Camphorwood Tea Smoked Duck, all of which each diner is entitled to 1 serving of. I simply wouldn’t know where to start!

165 Tg Pagar Rd, AMARA Singapore, #2F, Singapore 088539
+65 6276 9138
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 9.30pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
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27. Jia He Chinese Restaurant

The moment my mom saw me working on this dim sum guide, she insisted I include Jia He Chinese Restaurant, AKA her favourite spot for a laidback ladies’ lunch with her friends.

‘Jia He’ is short for 家和万事兴 (jia he wan shi xing), a Chinese idiom which means ‘a harmonious family will prosper’. With a well-rounded menu that features both time-honoured delicacies and contemporary creations, the restaurant aims to embody ‘harmony’ in their food.

As with Peony Jade, dining at Jia He with your friends gives you better value for money. The Weekday Dim Sum Brunch Buffet is priced at S$33++ per person with a minimum of 4 diners, while the Weekend Buffet is priced at S$36++ per person. However, if your party consists of just 2 or 3 diners, it’ll cost S$49.80++ per person and S$56.80++ per person respectively.

Either way, brace yourself for a wide variety of both steamed and fried dim sum. Several menu highlights include the Crisp-fried Kurobuta Pork with Bell Pepper & Yam Dumpling, Steamed BBQ Pork Bun and the indulgent Peanut Lava in Sesame Ball. 

Here’s a disclaimer, though: take it easy with the Steamed Creamy Custard Bun. Delicious as it is, it’s classified as a dessert which each diner is entitled to only 2 servings of.

1 Farrer Park Station Rd, Connexion, #01-14/15/16, Singapore 217562
+65 6694 8988
Daily: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
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—Classic old-school dim sum—

Finally, we have a list of charming old-school dim sum restaurants. Each listed here has a history spanning at least 30 years, with many of their dim sum recipes remaining unchanged for decades.

The ambience at these spots oozes nostalgia, and we believe that Gen X’ers in particular will adore the traditional vibe. Younger generations should also visit these restaurants for a literal taste of tradition.

28. Red Star Restaurant 红星酒家

Red Star Restaurant 红星酒家 is the brainchild of 2 members of the legendary ‘Four Heavenly Kings of Cantonese Cuisine’ who rose to fame and received multiple culinary awards in the 1970s.

They were all disciples of grandmaster Chef Luo Chen at Cathay Restaurant in the 1950s, which was considered the most prestigious Chinese restaurant at the time. These chefs are also credited with the invention of famous Singaporean dishes we regularly enjoy today — namely, chilli crab, yam ring and yu sheng. Wow.

There isn’t anything too over-the-top about the dim sum menu at this humble Cantonese speciality restaurant. Expect to find comfortable classics such as BBQ Pork Pie (S$5.70), Paper Wrapped Chicken (S$5.70) and Cha Sao Bao (S$4.70) among many nostalgic Hong Kong-style dim sum.

One wonderful thing about Red Star, though, is that it’s one of the few remaining restaurants in Singapore that still serves up dim sum in pushcarts. It’s definitely an experience worth heading down for in and of itself.

54 Chin Swee Road, #07-23, Singapore 160054
+65 6532 5266
Mon to Fri: 8.30am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
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29. Summer Palace 夏宫

Located in the Conrad Singapore Orchard, Summer Palace 夏宫 is a classy Cantonese restaurant that blends modernity with nostalgia. It takes on the aesthetic of a tranquil imperial garden, complete with bamboo-esque fixtures and elegant paintings on their walls.

It’s a popular choice for traditional Chinese wedding diners and an excellent venue for business lunches when you want to treat your clients to traditional Cantonese cuisine.

Summer Palace’s dim sum menu is only available for lunch. That aside, you can expect excellent service as befitting a hotel restaurant, as well as dishes like Lobster Dumpling (S$15), Vegetable Spring Rolls with Black Truffle Sauce (S$11) and Conpoy Siu Mai (S$12) stuffed with pork, prawn and mushroom.

1 Cuscaden Rd, Conrad Singapore Orchard, Level 3, Singapore 249716
+65 6725 3288
Mon to Fri: 12pm – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
Sat & Sun: 11.30am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10.30pm
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30. Asia Grand Restaurant 亚洲金阁海鲜酒家

Winner of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs medallion, Asia Grand Restaurant 亚洲金阁海鲜酒家 maintains one of the highest service standards among the restaurants on this list. They have also modernised their decor to keep up with the times, incorporating several contemporary touches including tables that can seat up to 15 diners!

They offer a variety of traditional dim sum alongside simple yet innovative creations with contemporary twists. Take, for example, the Pan-Fried Cheong-Fun w/ X.O. Chilli Sauce (S$11), Steamed Salted Egg Yolk Bun w/ Charcoal (S$8.80) and Sweet Egg Twist (S$8.80).

While the dim sum is popular and undoubtedly delicious, you mustn’t miss out on the Peking Duck (S$98) here; it’s said to be one of the best in Singapore.

252 North Bridge Rd, Fairmont Singapore South Tower, #03-22B, Singapore 179103
+65 6887 0010
Mon to Fri: 11.30am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun: 11am – 3pm & 6pm – 10pm
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31. Spring Court 詠春園

Spring Court 詠春園 is the oldest surviving family-run restaurant in Singapore. Believe it or not, it has been around since 1929 — before most of us were even born!

Housed in a massive 4-storey heritage shophouse in Chinatown, Spring Court accommodates families and business VIPs alike, offering amenities such as an elevator, VIP rooms equipped with karaoke facilities and even all-day valet parking.

Strictly speaking, the current restaurant is pretty new considering how they’ve moved several times. Nonetheless, their dim sum offerings are timeless classics. Now onto their third generation of family management, this establishment continues to evolve and adapt to modern times and tastes. Now, isn’t that a good sign that they’ll continue delighting us with their dim sum into the future?

The Dumplings with Peppery Spicy Sauce (S$8.30 for 3 pieces) are fiery hot but oh-so-satisfying. While the spiciness might make your ears tingle, you won’t be able to resist shovelling them down; they’re just so delicious and full of flavour.

Get a portion of the Roasted Pork Belly (S$16.80 per portion), too — each cubed morsel is the perfect bite of crispy, crackling skin, melt-in-your-mouth fats and succulent meat.

52-56 Upper Cross St, Singapore 058348
+65 6449 5030
Mon to Thu: 11am – 2.30pm & 6pm – 10pm
Fri to Sun: 11am – 2.30pm & 5.30pm – 10pm
*Dim Sum available during lunch seatings only
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