Dim sum is a traditional Chinese meal made up of small snack dishes, usually accompanied by tea. Whether it’s dumplings packed with juicy fillings or soft, pillowy buns and crispy rolls that disappear before you even blink — each bite is pure joy on a plate. After plenty of ‘research’ (okay, fine, eating), I’ve given the Dim Sum Delight award to these spots. Trust me, I’ve been there, done that, and I keep coming back for more because these places have perfected the art of dumplings. Let’s just say, they’re worth more than just a quick snack — they’re a full-on, belly-happy event.
You know that feeling when you walk into a place and just know it’s going to be good? That’s Din Tai Fung. Their xiao long bao, filled with rich, aromatic broth and finely minced pork, are a standout — each dumpling is meticulously crafted to deliver a delicate balance of tender dough and savory soup. I also tried prawn and pork dumplings which were similarly impressive, with the perfect mix of shrimp and pork wrapped in a light, tender skin. The atmosphere here is always buzzing, and there’s just a special vibe here that makes every visit feel like a dumpling celebration.
Price: Around £35 per person. It’s worth it, I promise.
Hakkasan is where luxury and dim sum collide, and let me tell you, it’s an affair worth having. Kick things off with har gow which are expertly made, with delicate translucent wrappers that give way to juicy, perfectly seasoned prawn filling. Don’t miss char siu buns — soft, fluffy, and lightly sweet, offering a satisfying contrast to the savory pork inside. The vibe here is swanky, sleek, and a little bit fabulous, and the food is pure comfort.
Budget: Expect to pay around £40 per person. Luxury never tasted so good.
You’ve seen dim sum, but have you ever seen dim sum like this? Yauatcha takes this dish and turns it into art. I’m talking venison puffs that are crisp, golden, and filled with tender, well-seasoned meat that’s rich without being overpowering. Yauatcha’s crystal dumplings are equally stunning — transparent wrappers encasing a fresh, delicately flavored filling. This place has that Michelin-starred flair without making you feel like you need to be wearing a tux. Just bring your appetite and a whole lot of love for dumplings.
Price tag: Around £38 per person. Every bite is like a little Michelin-starred hug.
If you’re into bold flavours and dumplings that don’t hold back, BaoziInn is calling your name. This place isn’t shy about heat or spice, and their dumplings are packing some serious flavour punches. Spicy wontons are a real crowd-pleaser, while pickled vegetable dumplings are refreshing with a tangy, vinegary kick. This place has got that gritty, down-to-earth vibe that makes you feel right at home. No pretensions, just really good food.
Cost: Expect to spend about £30 per person. Bold, fiery, and full of flavour.
Dumplings' Legend lives up to its name with a stellar reputation for its xiao long bao. These dumplings are incredibly juicy, with a thin, delicate wrapper and a broth that bursts out with every bite. Their crispy turnip cakes are equally noteworthy, with a satisfying crunch that gives way to a tender filling, perfectly seasoned. If you’re in Chinatown and you don’t stop here, well, I’m just going to say it — you're missing out. Don’t make that mistake.
Ballpark cost: About £25 per person. Classics don’t come better than this.
Lotus Garden reimagines dim sum with a touch of elegance, like wearing your fanciest pyjamas to a Michelin dinner (and still feeling fabulous). Start with truffle siu mai — a luxurious treat with a delicate, fragrant truffle infusion that enhances the classic siu mai’s flavor. Then go on with crystal prawn dumplings that are almost too pretty to eat (but don’t worry, you’ll get over it). The ambiance is plush, polished, and just the right amount of posh. Sip your oolong tea slowly, savour each bite, and let yourself feel like royalty for an afternoon.
Price tag: Around £40 per person. A little fancy, a lot delicious.
Royal China has been serving up dim sum in London for what feels like forever, and with good reason — it’s just that exceptional. Their steamed dumplings are tender, stuffed with perfectly seasoned fillings that deliver a rich, savory taste. Crispy duck pancakes are another highlight, with duck, hoisin sauce, and cucumber wrapped in a soft pancake, creating the ideal balance of textures and flavors. It’s classic, it’s comforting, and it never lets you down. Whether you’re a dim sum newbie or a seasoned pro, this place is where you go when you want to know how dim sum was meant to taste.
Cost: About £30 per person. Timeless and reliably tasty.
Silk Road focuses on simple, yet beautifully executed dishes, like pan-fried chive dumplings, perfectly crisp on the outside, with a satisfying bite and flavorful pork inside. Classic steamed dumplings are delicate and tender, with a light, savory filling that melts in your mouth. The ambience here is minimalist, stylish, and efficient — perfect for when you just want great food without any fuss. Plus, the service is fast, which is always a win when you’re hungry.
Plan for: Around £33 per person. Just do yourself a favour and try a dessert, too.
