Hong Kong’s dim sum scene is a culinary treasure, offering everything from traditional yum cha to inventive takes on classic dishes. These restaurants redefine this beloved Cantonese tradition, making it an unmissable experience for locals and visitors alike.

Dim sum—often called a “little gift from the heart”—has long been woven into Hong Kong’s cultural fabric. Some say it was born as a tea house snack to boost tea sales, while others trace its origins to villagers showing gratitude to soldiers. Today, the ritual of yum cha—literally “drink tea” in Cantonese—remains a cornerstone of Hong Kong dining. Whether you’re drawn to bustling tea houses or sleek modern spaces, here are the top spots to indulge in dim sum in Hong Kong.

The Michelin Star Dim Sum restaurant Duddle's in Hong Kong — *The Michelin-starred dim sum restuarant Duddle’s in Hong Kong*

Tim Ho Wan

Famed as the world’s most affordable Michelin-starred restaurant, Tim Ho Wan is a must-visit for dim sum enthusiasts who value exceptional quality at a wallet-friendly price. The restaurant’s iconic baked barbecued pork bun, with its perfectly crisp exterior and sweet, savory filling, has become a global sensation—imitated often but rarely equaled.

Tim Ho Wan has multiple locations across Hong Kong, making it easily accessible. A popular branch sits conveniently above Hong Kong Station on the Airport Express line. For an authentic experience, head to the original Sham Shui Po location, where the Tim Ho Wan story first began.

Address: 9-11 Fuk Wing Street, Sham Shui Po

Phone: 2788 1226

Lin Heung Lau

A symbol of old-school charm, Lin Heung Lau reopened in April 2024 after a pandemic closure, much to the delight of its loyal patrons. This historic tea house offers authentic Cantonese dim sum served from traditional pushcarts, with highlights like steamed chicken buns and pork liver siu mai. A takeaway counter on the ground floor caters to tea enthusiasts on the go.

Address: 160 Wellington Street, Central

Phone: 2116 0670

Seventh Son

Celebrated for its impeccable Cantonese cuisine, Seventh Son is a haven for purists. Run by a scion of a legendary restaurant family, it’s famous for perfect renditions of dim sum staples like har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and lor mai gai (steamed sticky rice in lotus leaf).

Address: 3/F, Wharney Hotel, 57-73 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai

Phone: 2892 2888

City Hall Maxim’s Palace

This grand dim sum hall at Maxim’s Palace combines vintage charm with a contemporary setting, offering pushcarts full of delights alongside panoramic Victoria Harbour views. The extensive menu includes everything from freshly fried turnip cakes to delicate egg tarts. Arrive early to avoid long queues.

Address: 2/F, Low Block, City Hall, Central

Phone: 2521 1303

Luk Yu Tea House

Step back in time at this 1930s institution, beloved by Hong Kong’s elite. Its antique interiors and traditional service make it a unique dining experience. Visit early for authentic dim sum or stay for lunch to sample specialties like sweet and sour pork made with hawthorn juice.

Address: 24-26 Stanley Street, Central

Phone: 2523 5464

Social Place

Known for its playful approach to Cantonese dining, Social Place surprises and delights with inventive presentations. Dishes like truffle shiitake buns shaped like mushrooms and lobster puffs styled as mangosteens add a whimsical touch to the classic dim sum experience.

Address: 2/F, The L Place, 139 Queen’s Road Central, Central

Phone: 3568 9666

Yum Cha

Trendy and photogenic, Yum Cha offers a modern twist on dim sum. Highlights include emoji-faced custard buns and rainbow-colored dumplings. Its sleek interiors and social media-friendly dishes attract a lively crowd at its Central and Tsim Sha Tsui locations.

Address: 2/F, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Road Central, Central

Phone: 3541 9710

Duddell’s

This Michelin-starred restaurant is as much about art and ambiance as it is about exquisite Cantonese cuisine. Signature dishes like fish maw soup dumplings and Ibérico pork buns are complemented by an elegant setting and a rooftop terrace. The weekend dim sum brunch with free-flow champagne is a highlight.

Address: 3/F, 1 Duddell Street, Central

Phone: 2525 9191

Dim Sum Square

This unpretentious eatery is ideal for all-day dim sum lovers. Known for its fresh, made-to-order dishes, it serves crowd favorites like prawn rice rolls and steamed spare ribs with black bean sauce, as well as hearty rice bowls.

Address: LG/F, Tern Centre Tower 2, 78 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan

Phone: 2851 8088

Sun Hing

A beloved late-night institution, Sun Hing is perfect for dim sum cravings at any hour. Open from 3 am to 4 pm daily, this self-service spot offers everything from pork and shrimp siu mai to sweet custard buns, making it a favorite among night owls and jet-lagged travelers.

Address: 8 Smithfield Road, Kennedy Town

Phone: 2816 0616

From nostalgic tea houses to chic modern venues, these restaurants showcase the vibrant heart of Hong Kong’s dim sum culture.