Craving dumplings? Our guide to the best dim sum restaurants in Singapore is for you. From traditional to fine-dining, we’ve got somewhere for you.
As someone who cannot get through a weekend without a dim sum fix, some may say that I am obsessed. Thankfully, Singapore has a huge number of fantastic dim sum restaurants to choose from.
Going for dim sum is not just about the taste. It’s about the experience.
From plush, elegant settings to quaint, hole-in-the-wall establishments, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the vast array of dim sum that the city has to offer.
It’s a quest that has taken me from the traditional, steaming baskets of dumplings to innovative creations that push the boundaries of what dim sum can be. From affordable dim sum in a casual setting to lavish dim sum buffets, I’ve tried it all!
My guide to the best dim sum in Singapore will help you choose where to go for your own dim sum fix.
My Top Picks
These following restaurants may not be the fanciest, most expensive, most innovative or most awarded restaurants in town, but they are my go-to places for dim sum in Singapore.
1. Crystal Jade Golden Palace
Orchard Road Retreat
Crystal Jade Golden Palace is my favourite place to stop for dim sum when shopping on Orchard Road. Don’t be put off by its location in a shopping mall, it serves up some of the best dumplings in town.
The opulent interior, complete with glistening chandeliers, proves that Crystal Jade is serious about this restaurant. The company has over 100 outlets in 25 cities (from casual to fine dining), but this is their crown jewel, often topping best restaurant lists and holding a Michelin star from 2016 – 2018.
The restaurant is known for its fine-dining Teochew dishes, but I usually come here for the dim sum. The quality is excellent, the service attentive and the surroundings are elegant. It’s the perfect break from flexing the credit card in all the designer boutiques of Orchard.
You’ll find elegant and innovative versions of most traditional dim sum dishes here. Don’t miss the Barbecue Roasted Platter, a delicious combination of succulent Roasted Iberico Pork Belly Char Siew and Crispy Crackling Pork Belly. It’s divine.
Where to find it: 290 Orchard Rd, The Paragon, #05-22.
2. Yum Cha Restaurant
Traditional Charm in the heart of Chinatown
Handily located in the heart of Chinatown, Yum Cha is a favourite with both tourists and locals, who flock here for the buzzing atmosphere and reliably good dim sum.
Bringing back the dim sum tea house concept in a shophouse setting, there’s nothing overly fancy about Yum Cha, but you always know you will get good quality dim sum at an affordable price.
They often have the dim sum trolleys here, too, to add to the nostalgic feel.
I often recommend this restaurant to visitors to Singapore – it’s the perfect little hideaway to escape the crowds of Chinatown and refuel for some more sightseeing.
All the classic favourites are on offer here, including juicy Har Gow (steamed shrimp dumplings) and fragrant Siu Mai (pork dumplings). Other favourites not to be missed include delicious Sesame Prawn and Mango Rolls, Fried Garlic Prawn Dumplings and the Crispy Prawn Cheong Fun (rice noodle rolls).
Where to find it: 20 Trengannu St (corner of Temple St).
3. Tim Ho Wan
An Affordable Michelin-Star Experience
Tim Ho Wan is a beloved restaurant chain that proves that excellence in dim sum doesn’t always have to come with a hefty price tag.
The restaurant first became famous for earning a Michelin star at its original hole-in-the-wall eatery in Hong Kong to become the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant in the world.
As an aside – I was lucky enough to visit this original outlet back in 2010, right after it achieved its star. And yes, as you can see from my very old food blog here, I have been writing about dim sum and food in Singapore for over 15 years!
Tim Ho Wan no longer holds a Michelin star, but it still focuses on bringing affordable Hong Kong dim sum to the world. You can now find more than 60 outlets in 13 countries, including several in Singapore.
It’s still famous for its fluffy BBQ Pork Buns that are a must-try, along with the light and spongy Steamed Egg Cake, Beancurd Skin with Pork & Shrimp, and Pan-Fried Carrot Cake.
Where to find it: Locations all over Singapore, including Marina Bay Sands, Jewel Changi Airport, Plaza Singapura and Great World City.
Michelin Starred Dim Sum Restaurants in Singapore
If you like to head to restaurants safe in the knowledge that the dim sum has been approved by the world’s strictest food critics and awarded the highest accolade – a Michelin Star – then these following restaurants are for you.
4. Summer Palace
Regal Dim Sum in an Imperial Setting
If you’re looking for opulent surroundings in which to enjoy your dim sum, then Summer Palace ticks all the boxes. Elegant marble entrance hall – tick. Overflowing vases of fresh flowers – tick. A dining room dotted with arts and antiques – tick.
The dim sum is as exquisite as the surroundings, with Executive Chef Liu Ching Hai carefully crafting ever-changing offerings with sometimes surprising ingredients. Take the Lobster Dumpling with Prawn, Pine Nuts and Caviar or the Deep Fried Prawn Ball with Lychee and Wasabi Sauce.
But you don’t need to miss out on the favourites, with Char Siu Bao, Vegetable Spring Rolls and Baked Egg Tarts all making an appearance on the menu too.
It’s an ideal spot for special occasions or when you just want to indulge in a lavish dim sum experience.
Where to find it: Conrad Orchard, 1 Cuscaden Road.
5. Imperial Treasure Fine Teochew Cuisine
Teochew Specialty Dim Sum
Imperial Treasure Fine Teochew Cuisine is a treasure trove of classic dishes from the rich Teochew culinary tradition, offering dim sum with a difference.
The chefs here are masters at crafting dishes that pay homage to this unique style of Chinese cuisine, known for its emphasis on freshness and flavours.
Highlights on the menu include Steamed Pork Dumpling in Teochew Style, Steamed Crystal Dumpling in Teochew Style and the Steamed Teochew Dumpling.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Teochew cuisine or curious to explore it, Imperial Treasure is a must-visit.
Where to find it: branches in ION Orchard and Marina Bay Sands.
6. Lei Garden
Highly acclaimed cuisine in a historic setting
Located in the beautiful heritage surroundings of Chijmes, Lei Garden dishes up more high-class dim sum dishes.
This Hong Kong stalwart is no stranger to accolades. Since the launch of the Hong Kong guide in 2009, Lei Garden has earned 93 stars across its branches in the Asian Michelin Guides. It proudly boasts that it is the most awarded and critically acclaimed restaurant group in the Asian region.
Dim sum stand-outs include the Flaky Pastry with Shredded Turnip and the Steamed Pork Dumpling. Also, don’t miss out on the Barbecued Honey Pork and the Roasted Pork Belly with its exquisite crispy skin
Where to find it: #01-24 Chijmes, 30 Victoria Street.
7. Summer Pavilion
Sophisticated dim sum in a Chinese garden-inspired setting
Offering authentic Cantonese cuisine in a sophisticated Chinese garden-inspired setting, Ritz Carlton’s Summer Pavilion has been awarded the coveted Michelin Star for six consecutive years.
The hand-painted Italian tableware, intimate booths and exclusive artwork match the exceptional cuisine.
Highlights include the Deep-fried Lobster Roll with prawn paste and breaded vermicelli and the Deep-fried Seafood Roll, which includes scallop, prawn, and coral clam paired with mango, cucumber, and turnip.
The Barbecued Sliced Duck with Fresh Mango and Lemon Sauce is another hit, and there’s also an impressive selection of specialty teas to wash it all down with.
Where to find it: Level 3, the Ritz-Carlton, Millenia, 7 Raffle Avenue.
Affordable dim sum restaurants in Singapore
You don’t need to spend a fortune or head to a fine-dining establishment to find good dim sum in Singapore. There are plenty of places to indulge without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best.
8. Red Star Restaurant
A Nostalgic Pushcart Experience
If you want to experience old-school-style traditional dim sum, then Red Star is the place to go.
It’s a celebrated icon in the Singapore dim sum scene thanks to being one of the only restaurants in town that still serves up the dishes the traditional way – on food trolleys.
Take a seat, peer into the baskets as they pass, and let the server know which ones you want.
In all honesty, the food isn’t the best you’ll find in Singapore. But that doesn’t stop people queuing out the door at weekends (no reservations for dim sum) to relive the good old days.
Where to find it: 54 Chin Swee Rd, #07-23 (it’s in an HDB apartment block).
9. Swee Choon Dim Sum Restaurant
A Nocturnal Delight
While dim sum is normally associated with breakfast and lunch, Swee Choon has become a supper institution in Singapore due to its high-quality, affordable dim sum.
Known for its wide selection and late-night service, it has been a beacon for night owls and dim sum aficionados since 1962. The restaurant’s ever-expanding presence into the neighbouring shophouses is a testament to its popularity.
The charm of Swee Choon lies in its simplicity and authenticity. This no-frills approach, combined with its affordability, makes Swee Choon a popular part of Singapore’s dim sum landscape. Be prepared the queue though!
Where to find it: 183-193 Jalan Besar.
10. Dim Sum Haus
Popular no-frills dim sum option
Swee Choon isn’t the only affordable dim sum restaurant on Jalan Besar. In fact, several other outlets have opened over the years, piggybacking on Swee Choon’s success and drawing in the stragglers who don’t have the patience to queue.
Dim Sum Haus is one of the more popular alternatives, located just a 5-minute walk away. With its minimalist interior and plastic green chairs, it is definitely no-frills. But it packs in the crowds who flock here for the decent, affordable dim sum.
Crowd favourites include their Steamed Crispy Rice Roll with Shrimp and the Pan-Fried Carrot Cake with Chinese Sausage, while many locals claim that the Baked Salted Egg Custard Bun is the best in town.
Where to find it: 57 Jalan Besar.
Fine Dining Dim Sum Restaurants
Looking to take it up a notch? You’re in luck. Singapore’s high-end restaurants have taken the classic dim sum experience and elevated it to another level.
You’ll find innovative takes on the classics, featuring luxury ingredients and exquisite presentation, all dished up in refined surroundings at some of Singapore’s best Chinese restaurants.
11. MOTT 32
Exquisite dim sum in stylish surroundings
Mott 32 was one of my favourite places to go for dim sum in Hong Kong, and so I was among the first to celebrate when they opened an outlet in Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.
Renowned for their Wagyu Beef, Barbecue Iberico Pork and 42-day Apple Wood Roasted Peking Duck, this multiple award-winning restaurant also serve up exceptional dim sum dishes.
The stylish interior, blending New York industrialism with Chinese opulence is the perfect backdrop to indulge in hand-crafted cocktails and some decadent dim sum.
Highly recommended dishes include the Black Miso Cod dumplings, the Signature Crispy Sugar Coated Peking Duck Buns and the Iberico Pork and Black Truffle Siu Mai, complete with a delicate quail egg hidden inside.
Don’t miss the Iberico Char Siu, served with Yellow Mountain honey – it is among the best I’ve ever had.
Top Tip: Great news for vegans and vegetarians – unusually, Mott 32 also offers a good selection of plant-based alternatives.
Where to find it: B1-42-44, The Shoppes Marina Bay Sands.
12. Shang Palace
Cantonese Classics and Innovative Creations
Shang Palace within the Shangri-La Hotel has been serving well-heeled diners since 1971. But don’t let the age of this grande dame put you off. It’s anything but old-fashioned.
Alongside some old-time Cantonese classics you’ll find modern and innovative creations such as the famous Deep-fried Chicken and Shrimp Dumplings in Carrot Shape and the Pan-fried Pork Dumplings with Morel Mushroom.
Although it recently lost its Michelin star status, it still deserves its reputation as one of the best Chinese restaurants in Singapore.
Where to find it: Shangri-La Hotel, 22 Orange Grove Road.
13. Min Jiang at Dempsey
Too-pretty-to-eat dumplings in a garden setting
Set within a heritage black and white building amidst the luscious greenery of Dempsey Hill, Min Jiang offers a bright and sophisticated setting for a dim sum lunch.
Presentation is everything here, and the perfectly executed dumplings demonstrate an exceptional eye for detail. Don’t miss the too-cute-to-eat Steamed ‘Goldfish’ Prawn Dumplings or the Steamed Crabmeat Dumpling ‘Tang Bao’.
If you really want to be impressed, order the Exclusive Dim Sum Platter, featuring exquisite creations such as the Steamed Blue Pea Truffle Vegetable Dumpling and the Deep-fried Glutinous Rice ‘Golden Pumpkin’.
Where to find it: 7A &, 7B Dempsey Rd.
14. Si Chuan Dou Hua
Fantastic views and theatrical service
Its location in the CBD makes this a popular spot for business lunches, but we always recommend Si Chuan Dou Hua to tourists and visitors due to its fantastic views from atop the UOB Plaza and its theatrical service.
Although renowned as a pioneer of Sichuan cuisine in Singapore, the restaurant also specialises in Cantonese cuisine, including exquisite handcrafted dim sum.
Popular choices include the Steamed Crystal Prawn Dumplings, the Deep Fried Spring Roll with Shredded Yam and the Crispy Sweet Potato Pancakes.
What really sets this restaurant apart though, is its skilled Tea Masters who combine martial arts, dance and showmanship in the traditional art of tea pouring. It’s a fun and theatrical experience not to be missed.
Where to find it: Top of the UOB Plaza, 80 Raffles Place.
15. Kai Garden
Classic dim sum with marina bay views
Famous for its Peking Duck, Kai Garden also offers a good range of dim sum and benefits from fantastic views of the Marina Bay skyline.
You’ll find all the favourites here – Xiao Long Bao, Spring Rolls and Char Siu Bao alongside some more contemporary offerings such as Deep Fried Sesame Ball with Durian Mousse and Mushroom Dumplings with Truffle Oil.
The Fried Scallop with Mango Roll is a highlight. And of course the Peking Duck…
Where to find it: Marina Square, 6 Raffles Boulevard.
16. Cassia
Refined Cantonese on Sentosa
If you’re over on Sentosa when the craving for dim sum hits you, then head on over to Cassia at luxury Singapore hotel The Capella.
Housed in a heritage building within one of Singapore’s most beautiful hotels, this plush restaurant serves high-quality dim sum in a refined setting.
In an interior fit for a design magazine, you can indulge in fine-dining dumplings such as Australian rock lobster dumplings, Pan-fried wagyu beef buns with black pepper and Prawn, Pork and Abalone Siew Mai.
Feeling really indulgent? Order the Crispy suckling Iberico pig skin, served with minced shrimp and a gold flake!
Where to find it: Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island.
Dim Sum Buffets in Singapore
Feeling super hungry? These restaurants offer unlimited servings of all your favourite dim sum dishes. You’ll often find free-flow drinks packages to accompany your dumplings too. Chin chin!
17. Madame Fan
Dim Sum and Cocktails
Madame Fan, located within the stylish NCO Club on Beach Road, offers more than just a meal. It provides an experience.
Brought to us by restaurateur Alan Yau (the man behind Hakkasan), the weekend dim sum brunch is an elegant affair, featuring a selection of traditional dim sum alongside innovative creations.
The ambiance, with its sophisticated red and black decor, sets the perfect backdrop for a leisurely brunch that feels like a special occasion.
The menu features unlimited servings of over 40 dim sum and Cantonese classic dishes. Dim Sum highlights include the Crab Roe Har Gau and Black Truffle Dumplings, or try some of the main course dishes such as the Australian Striploin with Sarawak black pepper or the Ume Wasabi Prawns.
In fitting with the festive atmosphere, you can upgrade to a 2-hour free-flow package, which includes champagne and cocktails such as Aperol Spritzes and Moscow Mules.
Where to find it: NCO Club, 32 Beach Road.
18. Man Fu Yuan
Free-flow dim sum with free-flow prosecco.
At the highly regarded weekend dim sum a la carte buffet at Man Fu Yuan, you can indulge in an unlimited selection of over 40 dishes, from signature dishes and dim sum delicacies to appetisers and desserts.
Highlights include Crispy Prawn Bean Curd roll with wasabi mayonnaise, Wok-fried Radish Cake with X.O. chilli sauce, and Honey-glazed Pork Belly.
Opt to upgrade to free-flow Prosecco for the ultimate pairing. There are two 90-minute sittings available on weekends and public holidays.
Where to find it: Intercontinental Singapore, 80 Middle Road.
19. Yan Ting at the St Regis
Extravagant brunch in a refined setting
Yan Ting at the St Regis Singapore is renowned for its extravagant weekend brunch in a refined setting.
Showcasing the best of Cantonese fine dining alongside dim sum favourites, you can look forward to delectable treats such as Deep Fried Boston Lobster with Egg Floss and Steamed Crystal Shrimp Dumplings with Caviar.
In keeping with the elegant atmosphere, you can opt to upgrade the experience with free-flow champagne.
Where to find it: The St Regis Singapore, 29 Tanglin Road.
20. Cherry Garden
A Luxurious Weekend Buffet
Cherry Garden, located in the opulent Mandarin Oriental hotel, is synonymous with luxury. The weekend dim sum buffet here is an indulgence.
Reminiscent of a traditional Chinese teahouse with its wooden panels and slate floors, the interior is inspired by Feng Shui principles.
The 2-hour brunch seating includes unlimited dim sum, allowing you to order as many sumptuous dumplings as you can manage. Don’t miss the Steamed Sumac Prawn Dumplings or the Steamed Crystal Dumpling with black truffle.
There’s no need to stop at dumplings either, with all the main courses, noodles and desserts all included in the price too.
Where to find it: Mandarin Oriental Singapore, 5 Raffles Avenue.
21. Hai Tien Lo
Traditional Cantonese Dining with a Contemporary Twist
If you’re looking to combine your dim sum lunch with a more substantial meal, then Hai Tien Lo is a great option.
The Yum Cha menu here is fixed-price and allows diners to choose from several courses, including soup, a dim sum selection, main dishes, and dessert.
With six dim sum choices per table, we recommend the Charcoal BBQ Pork Buns with Black Truffle and the Deep Fried Seafood Dumplings with mango, scallop and vermicelli.
When it comes to main courses, it’s hard to choose between the Crispy Prawns with Lemon Butter Sauce, the Wok Fried Angus Beef Tenderloin with mushroom, black pepper and foie gras sauce and the Szechuan Queensland Grouper Fillet with fresh chilli and minced garlic. Tough decisions.
Where to find it: Pan Pacific Singapore, 7 Raffles Boulevard