Unveiling the top dim sum destinations in Singapore

It’s no secret that we Singaporeans love our dim sum. At the rate we’re going, we might as well make them a permanent diet. 

And no, we’re not complaining. Dim sum superiority is honestly something else. 

But where do you go when you’re on the hunt for the perfect dim sum brunch, buffet, or even a good ‘ole pushcart dining experience? 

Keep reading as we introduce you to some of the city’s finest dim sum destinations that promises to satisfy your cravings for these delightful bite-sized treats. 

And hey, if you missed our previous article on the best Chinese food in Singapore, don’t hesitate to give that one a quick read. We had a delicious lineup with renowned restaurants like Jia Wei Chinese Restaurant and many more!

Without further ado, let’s dive right in!

1. Mouth Restaurant

With over three decades of dim sum expertise under their belt, Mouth Restaurant is a time-tested gem in Singapore’s culinary scene. 

Not only do they serve up classic Cantonese dishes with finesse, but they also bring a modern twist to the table. Mouth Restaurant is the perfect venue for both large gatherings and intimate family feasts. In fact, you can even host a wedding banquet or a corporate function here as well. 

Don’t skip the: Rainbow Har Gao, a visual delight that tastes even better than it looks. And have you heard about their Squid Ink Char Siew Bao? Let’s just say it’s a flavour explosion you won’t want to miss. And as for the baked crust custard, or Liu Sha Bao, brace yourself for an irresistible salted egg custard filling that just oozes decadence. 

Location: 38 Maxwell Rd, #01-01/02 Air View Building, Singapore 069116

Opening hours: Mon – Fri (11.30 am – 3 pm for lunch & 6 pm – 10 pm for dinner), Sat – Sun (10 am – 4 pm for lunch & 6 pm – 10 pm for dinner)

2. Peach Garden

Peach Garden is where affordability meets deliciousness in the world of dim sum. 

The real excitement, however, lies in their variety of outlets. Peach Garden Miramar serves up an a la carte buffet with unlimited orders from their signature dim sum dishes, while Peach Garden Chinatown Point spices things up with a dim sum high tea buffet.

And let’s not forget Peach Garden Thomson’s afternoon dim sum parade with traditional push carts. Here, they switch up their offerings weekly, so prepare for a journey of endless discovery. 

Pro tip? Keep an eagle eye out for their occasional 50% off dim sum lunch promotions – a steal for sure. 

Don’t miss the: Pan-fried Green Wrasse with Orange Sauce and Double-boiled Fish Maw Soup – they’re worth every penny. And don’t even think about leaving without trying their Roasted Peking Duck; it’s so so good.

Location: Multiple outlets, including one in Miramar, Chinatown Point and Thomson.

Opening hours: Varies by outlet.

3. Hai Tien Lo

The dim sum feasts at Hai Tien Lo are all about blending the past and the present for an unforgettable dining experience.

Their weekend and weekday dim sum buffets offer an array of mouthwatering options that won’t disappoint. And if you want to take things up a notch, go all out and pay S$90 for unlimited house-pour champagne, house wines, beers, juices, and soft drinks.

Don’t miss the: Steamed Pork and Prawn Dumplings with Mushrooms and Bonito Flakes. But the real showstoppers are the Deep-fried Banana Fritters with Prawn Paste and Sesame, and the Baked Hokkaido Cheese Tart that’ll send your taste buds on a rollercoaster ride.

Location: 7 Raffles Blvd, Singapore 039595

Opening hours: Mon – Sun (11.30 am – 2.30 pm for lunch & 6 pm – 10 pm)

4. Cherry Garden

Cherry Garden is your ticket to dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal produce.

Their ever-changing menu ensures authenticity in every dish. We don’t know about you, but we love surprises – so, trying something new here is always a treat. 

While the dim sum brunch might cost you a bit, the weekend dim sum buffet is a true feast. Honestly though, you can’t go wrong with either option. 

Don’t miss the: Steamed Prawn Dumpling with Black Garlic or the Steamed Kurobuta Char Siew Bao. These are flavour-packed works of art that deserve all the applause.

Location: 5 Raffles Ave., Singapore 039797

Opening hours: Mon – Fri (12 pm – 2.30 pm  for lunch & 6.30 pm – 10.30 pm for dinner). 

Note that at the time of this article’s posting, Cherry Garden is under renovation, but you can expect their services to be back in September. For more updates, visit the official website.

5. Yum Cha Restaurant

For those who crave that old-school dim sum charm, Yum Cha Restaurant’s pushcart service is a nostalgic delight. Here, you can find classics like the Siew Mai, Prawn Dumpling, Pork Ribs with Garlic and Baked Mini Egg Tarts and see exactly why they’ve stood the test of time. 

With over 60 items on their dim sum spread, you’ll be spoiled for choice. But if you need a little help on where to start, we’ve got you covered. 

Don’t miss the: BBQ Pork Bun and the Xiao Long Bao. They are a must-try for good reason. In all honesty, we haven’t stopped thinking about the XLB and its juicy pockets of succulent meat since the last time we ate them. 

Location: There are two branches, including one outlet in Chinatown and Changi.

Opening hours: Varied based on the outlet.

6. Beng Hiang

Established as one of Singapore’s finest Hokkien restaurants, Beng Hiang offers dim sum that’s authentic, satisfying, and most importantly, affordable. 

And yes, they’re rocking the pushcart services too. If you can’t already tell, we’ve got a little soft spot for these eateries. The vibes in pushcart dim sum restaurants are just on a whole nother level.  

Don’t miss the: Crispy Beancurd Skin Roll with Prawn, Crispy Baby Squid in Honey Sauce, and Kong Ba Bao. They’re to die for. Did that sound a little dramatic? Yes. Are we taking it back? No. It’s just that good.  

Location: 135 Jurong Gateway Rd, #02-337, Singapore 600135

Opening hours: Tues – Sun (11.30 am – 2.30 pm for lunch & 6 pm to 9.30 pm for dinner)

Closed on Mondays

7. Red Star

Red Star is a name that resonates with Singapore’s dim sum history. 

Their pushcart service and old-school décor create an atmosphere that feels nostalgic and absolutely heartwarming. In fact, Red Star was one of the OG restaurants with pushcart services a thing back in the day. 

And when it comes to what not to skip, the list is deliciously long – and honestly, we’re not complaining. 

Don’t miss the: Liu Sha Bao, the Zha Leung, Chee Chong Fan, Roast Duck, Carrot Cake, Lo Mai Kai, and the Braised Chicken Feet. 

Location: 54 Chin Swee Rd, #07-23, Singapore 160054

Opening hours: Mon – Sun (8 am – 3 pm for lunch & 6 pm – 9.30 pm for dinner)

8. Lei Garden Restaurant (Chijmes)

Saving the crème de la crème for last, Lei Garden Restaurant has earned its Michelin Star for a reason. 

Their extensive dim sum menu, available exclusively during lunch hours, is a testament to their unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. So, if you’re looking for a memorable midday indulgence, look no further.

We’re not going to lie though, their dishes are a little on the pricier side of things. However, if you have the extra coin to spare, this experience promises to be a worthwhile investment in a lavish journey into the world of flavours, textures, and artistry that only a Michelin-starred restaurant can offer.

Don’t miss the: Classic dim sum delicacies like deep-fried shrimp beancurd roll and pan-fried turnip cake. And make room for the Roasted Pork Belly Siew Yuk, cheong fun with BBQ pork, and the Crab Roe Soup Dumpling – these dishes are nothing short of exquisite.

Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-24 CHIJMES, Singapore 187996

Opening hours: Mon – Sun (11.30 am – 3 pm  for lunch & 6 pm – 10 pm)

Wrapping up

So there you have it – our take on the best dim sum delights in Singapore. 

From traditional to innovative, and affordable to luxurious, these dim sum destinations offer a range of experiences that promise to tickle your taste buds and warm your heart. 

Just a quick note, the information provided in this article is accurate as of August 2023. For the latest updates and further details, keep an eye out for the venue’s official website or social media channels.

What do you think of our list of top dim sum faves in Singapore? Do you have any suggestions or hidden gems that weren’t included here? Let us know down below in the comments!