Guangzhou, the heart of Cantonese cuisine, is renowned for its unique and delicious dim sum offerings. A culinary tradition that has been passed down for centuries, dim sum is an essential part of the food culture in Guangzhou. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, exploring the local dim sum scene is a must. Here's everything you need to know to enjoy the perfect dim sum experience in this vibrant city.

What Is Dim Sum?

Dim sum refers to a variety of bite-sized, typically steamed, fried, or baked dishes served in small portions. Traditionally, dim sum is paired with tea in a leisurely dining experience known as yum cha, or "drinking tea." The dishes are often brought to your table on trolleys, allowing you to choose from a wide range of offerings. In Guangzhou, dim sum is more than just a meal—it's an opportunity to socialize with family and friends, enjoy a slow-paced, communal dining experience, and savor exquisite flavors.

Top Dim Sum Spots in Guangzhou

To fully immerse yourself in Guangzhou's dim sum culture, here are some of the best dim sum restaurants in the city:

1. Tao Tao Ju

Tao Tao Ju is one of Guangzhou's oldest and most famous dim sum restaurants. Established in 1880, this historic restaurant offers traditional Cantonese dim sum in an elegant yet relaxed setting. The service is impeccable, and the menu features a wide variety of both classic and innovative dim sum dishes. Don't miss their char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) and har gow (shrimp dumplings).

2. Guangzhou Restaurant

As one of Guangzhou's most iconic dining establishments, Guangzhou Restaurant is known for its high-quality dim sum and traditional Cantonese flavors. The restaurant is often busy, especially during peak hours, but the wait is worth it. Their steamed pork ribs and lotus leaf rice are highly recommended.

3. The Dynasty Restaurant

For a more upscale dim sum experience, head to The Dynasty Restaurant in the Dynasty Hotel. This elegant venue serves premium-quality dim sum made from the freshest ingredients. Their shrimp dumplings and egg tarts are particularly popular among regulars.

4. Liwan District Tea Houses

If you want to enjoy dim sum in a more traditional, local atmosphere, the tea houses in Liwan District are your best bet. This area is home to many small, family-run dim sum restaurants, where you can enjoy authentic flavors and a more affordable experience. It's a great spot to get a true taste of local life.

Must-Try Dim Sum Dishes

While the selection of dim sum varies by restaurant, there are certain dishes that you simply cannot miss during your visit to Guangzhou. Here are some of the most popular dim sum options:

1. Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow)

Perhaps the most iconic dim sum dish, har gow are translucent dumplings filled with succulent shrimp. The skin is delicate yet chewy, and the shrimp inside is perfectly seasoned. A must-try for any dim sum lover.

2. Pork Dumplings (Siu Mai)

Siu mai are open-topped dumplings made with ground pork, shrimp, and a variety of seasonings. Often garnished with fish roe or mushrooms, these dumplings are savory and flavorful. They're a staple of any dim sum meal.

3. Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)

Steamed char siu bao are soft, fluffy buns filled with sweet, savory BBQ pork. These buns are a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and they’re an essential part of the dim sum experience.

4. Egg Tarts (Dan Tat)

For dessert, nothing beats a freshly baked egg tart. The pastry is crispy and flaky, while the egg custard inside is rich and smooth. A delicious way to end your dim sum meal!

5. Steamed Spare Ribs (Pai Gu)

Steamed spare ribs are marinated in black bean sauce and steamed to tender perfection. The ribs are flavorful, with a hint of spice, and they make for a great savory snack between other dim sum dishes.

6. Lotus Leaf Rice (Lo Mai Gai)

Sticky rice wrapped in a lotus leaf and filled with a savory mixture of chicken, Chinese sausage, and mushrooms, lo mai gai is a comforting dish that’s perfect for those who love sticky rice and bold flavors.

The Best Time to Enjoy Dim Sum

In Guangzhou, dim sum is most commonly eaten for breakfast or brunch, typically from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. If you want to enjoy an authentic experience, it’s best to go early in the morning, especially on weekends when the restaurants can get crowded. If you're visiting during peak times, it's a good idea to make a reservation to ensure you get a table.

Dim Sum Etiquette in Guangzhou

Dim sum in Guangzhou is as much about the experience as it is about the food. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy dim sum like a local:

Order a Variety: The best way to enjoy dim sum is by sampling a wide range of dishes. Order several different types to share with your dining companions. Dim sum is a communal meal, so it’s all about variety and sharing.

Drink Tea: Tea is an essential part of the dim sum experience. In Cantonese culture, tea is not just a beverage but a way to cleanse the palate between bites. Pu-erh tea or oolong tea are the most commonly served.

Tap the Table to Say Thank You: If the tea server pours tea for you, it's customary to lightly tap the table with your fingers as a sign of gratitude. This gesture is a polite way of thanking the server.

Pace Yourself: Dim sum is a leisurely meal. Take your time to enjoy the variety of dishes, chat with friends, and sip tea. The experience is as much about the socializing as it is about the food.

How to Order Dim Sum

In most dim sum restaurants in Guangzhou, you’ll either be presented with a menu or the dishes will be served from trolleys. The trolley system allows you to choose from a wide range of dim sum items, and the server will mark your bill based on what you order. Be sure to ask the server for recommendations, especially if you're unsure about what to try.