The literal meaning of “dim sum” is “touches the heart,” and that is all it needs. We’ve compiled a list of Vancouver’s Top Ten Best Dim Sum places for all you devoted dim sum fans.
Dim sum, a meal of small bites often served in steamer baskets or on tiny plates, is typically eaten with Chinese tea. The tea aids in digestion since the meal can be quite filling.
There are several dim sum restaurants in Vancouver, and we’ve picked the finest ones for you to visit this winter to fill your tummies with delectable, hot dumplings and buns.
Make sure to bring some friends and family with you when you go – Dim Sum is best enjoyed in company! And while you’re at it, don’t forget the chopsticks – they’ll come in handy. You won’t find better Dim Sum anywhere else in the world.
Table of contents
1 – Western Lake Chinese Restaurant
Western Lake is a beloved Chinese seafood restaurant among Vancouver natives for its Dim Sum. With extremely large portions and always fresh ingredients, it’s no wonder why this location has such a die-hard following.
The next time you visit Western Lake, be sure to try the Steamed Prawn Dumplings, BBQ Pork Buns, and Deep Fried Stuffed Pork Dumplings. You won’t regret it!
If you’re dining with a large group, the Dim Sum Party Tray Combos are an amazing option that will satisfy everyone’s cravings.
What to order: Steamed Prawn Dumplings, BBQ Pork Buns, Deep Fried Stuffed Pork Dumplings
Western Lake Chinese Restaurant Website
Address: 4989 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, BC
2 – Jade Dynasty
There’s no better place to enjoy delicious all-day dim sum than at Jade Dynasty in the heart of Vancouver’s Chinatown. This charming and traditional spot is a real treasure, with amazing food and warm, friendly service. So if you love yum cha as much as we do, you need to visit Jade Dynasty.
The Ha Gao, which is loaded with shrimp, is a delicious dinner, as well as the Siu Mai, which is stuffed with meat. Customers also love their Deep Fried Squid, which comes garnished with garlic and green onion.
What to order: Ha Gao, Siu Mai, Turnip Cakes, Deep Fried Squid, custard buns
Address: 137 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC
3 – Pink Pearl Chinese Restaurant
Pink Pearl offers a warm and inviting service, as well as rolling carts of delectable steamed, fried, and baked Dim Sum. It is one of those Vancouver restaurants that distinguishes itself by providing a unique experience. Stop by for a fun night out, or to impress an out-of-town guest with a delicious Chinese meal.
The Peanut Dippers are delicious and flavorful, so give them a try; also, don’t forget to try some heavenly Steamed Chicken Buns and Steamed Dumplings with Dried Scallops in Soup.
What to order: Peanut Dumplings, Spare Ribs in Blackbean Sauce, Steamed Chicken Buns, Steamed Dumplings with Dried Scallops in Soup
Pink Pearl Chinese Restaurant Website
Address: 1132 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC
4 – Golden Swan Restaurant
The Golden Swan is a well-known Dim Sum restaurant on Victoria Drive. This establishment is great for a quick afternoon snack or an excellent evening out with a good friend because of its ever-changing menu service, as well as off-the-menu Dim Sum.
You’ll love the classic dim sum platters, prawn dumplings, eggplant with shrimp paste, egg tofu, and Suid. And if you can manage any more food, don’t miss out on Ha Gao and Sesame Balls. Trust us – you won’t regret it!
What to order: Prawn Dumplings, Eggplant with Shrimp Paste, Egg Tofu, Suid, Ha Gao and Sesame Balls, Beef Rolls, Beef Tendon, Egg Tart
Address: 5380 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC
Golden Swan Restaurant Website
5 – Golden Ocean Seafood Restaurant
Though it’s now less common, Golden Ocean is one of the few remaining dim sum restaurants that still employs old-fashioned carts. It can be fun to see what treats are being wheeled as you dine! If you don’t want to wait for a table, try to arrive earlier in the day.
Address: 2046 West 41st Avenue, Vancouver
Phone: 604-263-8886
6 – Empire Seafood Restaurant
The revered Empire Seafood Restaurant in Richmond has plenty of dim sum to go around. This modest location is ideal for casual dining and a simple evening of excellent, nutritious, and super-delicious cuisine.
The menu is so large that you might have difficulty picking something, but it’s also fun to simply look at all of the delicious buns, dumplings, and pastries.
Tip: Tourism Richmond put their dumplings on the map as part of Dumpling Trail.
What to order: Pan Fried Pork Buns, Deep Fried Duck, Mashed Taro Pastries, Steamed Spareribs, Steamed Wild Mushroom Dumplings with Black Truffle
Address: Unit 200, London Plaza, 5951 No. 3 Road, Richmond, BC
Empire Seafood Restaurant Website
7 – Neptune Palace Seafood Restaurant
Neptune Palace Seafood Restaurant is a Vancouver classic known for its delicious Dim Sum. Neptune Palace Seafood Restaurant, located on Marine Drive and boasting a magnificent dining hall littered with sparkling crystal chandeliers, is the ideal location for big group dinners.
If you’re looking for an amazing food experience, Neptune is the place for you. Our menu features delicious and exotic dishes from all over the world, like Deep Fried Scallop and Duck Taro Balls and so much more. Come treat your taste buds to something new today!
You’ll love our Mini Sticky Rice Wraps, but you’ll really regret it if you don’t try the Beef Meatballs with Tangerine Peel. I promise they’re super yummy!
What to order: Truffle Mushroom Dumplings, Deep Fried Scallop and Duck Taro Balls, Shrimp Paste Stuffed Eggplant, Dried Scallop & Fish Maw Dumplings, Mini Sticky Rice Wraps, Beef Meatballs with Tangerine Peel
Address: U308 – 470 SW Marine Dr. Vancouver, BC
Neptune Palace Seafood Restaurant Website
Neptune Palace Seafood Restaurant Facebook
8 – Fortune Terrace Chinese Restaurant
If you’re looking for an adorable and delicious dim sum experience, look no further than this restaurant in Richmond. With buns shaped into pigs, turtles, and even pugs, you won’t be disappointed.
Address: 6200 River Road #130, Richmond
Phone: 604-285-8980
Fortune Terrace Chinese Restaurant
Next time you’re visiting Vancouver, we hope you stay with us and take our advice and visit one of these awesome Yum Cha locations.
