If you are looking for the 10 best dim sum in Singapore, you have come to the right place. After eating my way through countless steamer baskets across this island, I am ready to share the ultimate list. From the famous Swee Choon dim sum to the elegant Peach Garden Dim Sum and the authentic best dim sum in Singapore Chinatown, this guide covers it all. I have also included spots with Michelin Star dim sum Singapore recognition for those seeking award-winning quality. Get ready to discover the must-try places for your next dim sum feast.
Finding the Best Dim Sum in Singapore Chinatown
.The center of the dim sum culture in Singapore is Chinatown. There's a traditional tea house experience in the historic shophouses and busy streets. The best dim sum in Singapore Chinatown is out there and here are some of the most special.
Yum Cha Restaurant: A Nostalgic Tea House Experience
Located at 20 Trengganu Street, Yum Cha Restaurant offers a unique dining experience . This restaurant aims to bring back the old-school dim sum tea house concept. You will find marble tables and wooden chairs that make you feel like you have stepped back in time .
What I love about Yum Cha is the extensive menu. They offer both traditional recipes and modern creations. The Fish Roe Siew Mai is a classic favorite here. The Har Gow or prawn dumplings are steamed perfectly with a delightful bite . They also have creative items like Squid Ink Dumplings and Mango Prawn Sesame Fritters . If you are looking for something truly unique, try their Bak Kut Teh Xiao Long Bao. It is a fun twist on the classic soup dumpling .
The restaurant can get crowded, especially on weekends. A reviewer on TripAdvisor mentioned it is "probably one of the most legitimate Cantonese dim sum venues in SG" . They also offer a weekday high-tea buffet from 3 PM to 6 PM. This buffet features over 60 dim sum items and is a great way to try a little bit of everything .
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Red Star Restaurant: Old-School Dim Sum with Pushcarts
Red Star Restaurant, a landmark in Singapore's dim sum scene. It's situated at 54 Chin Swee Road. This restaurant is well known for its retro Chinese restaurant design. The special thing about it is the push carts. Aunties push steaming carts of Dim Sum around in the restaurant. Simply looking at what you want, they will serve it at your table.
One of its perks is the nostalgic feeling it imparts. It reminds customers of the traditional Hong Kong restaurants. Food is safe and firm. Make sure to get the soft Char Siew Bao. Also, don't miss out on the Har Gao and Chicken Feet. Their simple yet flavorful porridge is a comforting meal that rounds out the meal. It's a wonderful place to savour old Singapore.
Award-Winning Spots: Michelin Star Dim Sum Singapore
If you are looking for the best of the best, Singapore offers a few places that have Michelin Star dim sum Singapore. The restaurants have good ingredients and good craftsmanship.
Tim Ho Wan: The Famous Michelin-Starred Chain
Tim Ho Wan is definitely one of the most popular brands in cheap Michelin star dim sum. The chain is based in Hong Kong and there are several outlets in Singapore, such as Singapore Plaza and Marina Bay Sands. It's well-known for its Baked BBQ Pork Buns. Crispy and sweet exterior and savory char siew inside.
Dumplings and Pan-fried Carrot Cake are also highly recommended . For those who like spice, the Pork Dumplings in Hot & Spicy Sauce deliver a nice kick . It is a great option for consistent quality dim sum at reasonable prices.
Crystal Jade: A Singapore-Born Michelin Star Brand
Crystal Jade is a brand which is well known in the world and is home-grown. They've been awarded one Michelin Star and several Bib Gourmand accolades. They're considered as one of the best places for Xiao Long Bao in Singapore. They are also popular for their Har Gao, Carrot Cake and Siew Mai with fish roe. It has several outlets on the island, so it is convenient to go and get a quality dim sum meal.
The Best Affordable and 24-Hour Dim Sum
The bottom line is that one doesn't need to fork out too much money to have a wonderful dim sum experience. There are also some great budget-friendly choices in Singapore that won't sacrifice flavor.
Swee Choon Dim Sum Restaurant: A Late-Night Legend
Swee Choon dim sum is a true Singaporean legend. Established in 1962, it changed the game by staying open late. It is the perfect place for a supper fix after a night out. The main outlet at Jalan Besar is a bustling coffee-shop style setting that is always packed with locals .
Their menu is extensive. I highly recommend the Szechuan Chilli Oil Dumpling. It is packed with flavor. The Classic Shrimp Har Gao and Chee Cheong Fun are also staples . A reviewer mentioned that "the Xiao Long Bao taste is excellent, with just the right thickness of dough" . They also have a 24-hour outlet at Changi Airport Terminal 2, perfect for travelers .
Mongkok Dim Sum: Wallet-Friendly and 24 Hours
If you are looking for dim sum on a budget, Mongkok Dim Sum is a great choice. It has a 24-hour outlet in Geylang. A rare offering here is the Zha Leung (you tiao in steamed rice rolls) . They also serve frog porridge, which is an interesting introduction for first-time visitors. It is a solid choice for affordable and quick dim sum.
Kuai San Dian Xin: Dim Sum for Just $1.50
For the most budget-friendly option, check out Kuai San Dian Xin. This chain has multiple locations around Singapore, including Ang Mo Kio and Bedok North. The best part? A plate of dim sum starts from just $1.50. You can get over 30 affordable items, including Siew Mai, Chee Cheong Fun, and Chicken Feet . It is comfort food at its finest, without any fancy plating.
Elegant Dining: Peach Garden Dim Sum
For a more refined dim sum experience, Peach Garden Dim Sum is an excellent choice. This renowned Chinese restaurant is celebrated for its superb cuisine and elegant dining ambiance . They have locations at Chinatown Point and Changi Airport Terminal 2.
Peach Garden: Award-Winning Cantonese Cuisine
Peach Garden is known for its quality ingredients and service. They've been endorsed and featured by many, such as Singapore Tatler and Wine & Dine. They have a dim sum menu to the delight of classic Cantonese craftsmanship.
Must-try items include the Steamed Siew Mai with Petite Abalone. This adds a luxurious touch to the classic dish. The Steamed Fresh Prawn Dumpling is another standout. For fried items, try the Deep-fried Bean Skin Roll with Prawn and Seaweed. They also have creative options like the Deep-fried Lychee Ball Tree . The weekend dim sum buffet is also a great way to enjoy their offerings .
Other Notable Mentions for the Best Dim Sum
Victor’s Kitchen
Victor's Kitchen brings authentic Hong Kong-style dim sum to Singapore in a casual kopitiam setting. It is helmed by a chef from the renowned Victoria Hotel. This is the place to go for a taste of Hong Kong without leaving Singapore. They are known for their generous portions and quality ingredients .
Social Place: Instagrammable Dim Sum
Social Place offers playful and creative dim sum that is perfect for photos. They are from Hong Kong, so they know their dim sum. The Small Pig Pudding is a wobbly, adorable dessert. The Charcoal Custard Buns and Golden Chicken Bao Lotus with Corn are also fun and tasty. It is a great spot for a modern dim sum experience .
Five Star Hong Kong Style Handmade Dim Sum
Located at an industrial complex in Sims Drive, this spot is a hidden gem. Chef Yiu Wah Tai, previously from Four Seasons, makes everything by hand. The Har Gao and Siew Mai are juicy and fresh. For those who like a kick, the Mala Dumpling is a great choice . It shows that you can find incredible dim sum even in unlikely places.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best choice of dim sum in Singapore for foreigners?
Din Tai Fung is a good place to begin for those who are new to the restaurant scene. Very family-friendly and there are multiple locations. They have standbys such as Xiao Long Bao and Shao Mai. Tim Ho Wan is also a good place to enjoy good and cheap dim sum.
Where can you get halal dim sum in Singapore?
The Dim Sum Place offers some great halal dim sum. They serve traditional dishes such as Crystal Shrimp Dumpling and Baked Buns filled with Roast Duck Filling. There are a variety of halal dim sum classics at Tang Tea House as well.
Does Swee Choon's dim sum have an 24 hour service?
Swee Choon dim sum does have a 24-hour outlet at Changi Airport Terminal 2. The original outlet of Jalan Besar is open till 4AM. Other outlets may also be open for different hours, please look at their website or social media website before going.
What are the Michelin star dim sum restaurants in Singapore?
Tim Ho wan is a popular multi-star Michelin restaurant. Another Singapore Based brand that has received one Michelin star and several Bib Gourmand awards is Crystal Jade. These places are great places to sample good dim sum.
Which items are Peach Garden Dim Sum must-have items?
The Steamed Siew Mai with Petite Abalone and the Steamed Fresh Prawn Dumpling are two must-try dishes at Peach Garden Dim Sum. Deep fried bean skin roll with prawn and seaweed is also a great option. If you're looking for a special indulgence, be sure to try the Deep Fried Lychee Ball Tree.