Best Dim Sum Singapore 2021: Top Restaurants Reviewed

Craving authentic Cantonese flavors? Singapore offers an exciting mix of restaurants serving delicious bites. From Michelin-starred spots to cozy family-run eateries, there’s something for every taste and budget.

This guide highlights handpicked places known for their quality and authenticity. Whether you love steamed dumplings or crispy buns, you’ll find standout dishes across the city. We’ve included well-known favorites and hidden gems.

Expect detailed reviews of popular spots like Man Fu Yuan and Tim Ho Wan. Each Chinese restaurant brings its own twist to classic recipes. Get ready to explore flavors that keep locals and visitors coming back for more.

Key Takeaways

• Discover top-rated spots for Cantonese cuisine in Singapore.
• Options range from luxury dining to budget-friendly eateries.
• Includes Michelin-starred and halal-certified choices.
• Detailed reviews of must-try restaurants.
• Focus on authenticity and fresh ingredients.

Introduction to Singapore’s Dim Sum Scene

Few dining experiences capture the essence of Cantonese culture like a well-prepared dim sum meal. In Singapore, this tradition thrives with a vibrant mix of flavors and techniques. The city’s culinary landscape blends time-honored recipes with local twists, creating a unique dining adventure.

Tea plays a central role in the experience, balancing rich flavors with fragrant brews. From jasmine to pu-erh, each variety enhances the meal. Pairing the right tea with your dishes elevates every bite.

Why Dim Sum is a Must-Try in Singapore

Singapore’s take on Cantonese cuisine reflects its multicultural roots. Early migrants brought recipes from Hong Kong, which evolved with local ingredients. Today, you’ll find everything from classic steamed dumplings to innovative fusion bites.

Places like Man Fu Yuan showcase this blend perfectly. Their menu highlights fresh, high-quality ingredients while honoring tradition. The restaurant also boasts the largest hotel champagne collection, adding a luxurious touch.

What Makes a Great Dim Sum Restaurant?

Quality stands out in every detail. Here’s what to look for:

Bamboo steamers and made-to-order dishes signal authenticity. For a deeper dive into Singapore’s culinary history, explore how dim sum became a local.

Best Dim Sum Singapore 2021: Top Picks

Singapore’s culinary gems reveal standout spots for Cantonese delights. Whether you crave luxury or budget-friendly meals, these venues excel in flavor and authenticity. Below, we spotlight three must-visit locations.

Man Fu Yuan: Award-Winning Cantonese Excellence

Man Fu Yuan blends tradition with modern flair. In 2021, it earned accolades for its signature dishes like steamed lobster dumplings. Pair your meal with their curated champagne selection—the largest in any hotel here.

Tim Ho Wan: Affordable Michelin-Starred Bites

Founded by ex-Lung King Heen chefs, Tim Ho Wan offers Michelin-starred meals at just SGD $40 per person. Their baked BBQ pork buns are legendary. Expect crisp textures and rich flavors without the luxury price tag.

The Dim Sum Place: Halal-Friendly Variety

With five locations citywide, this spot caters to diverse diets. Their halal-certified kitchen serves classics like har gow and custard buns. It’s a top pick for inclusive group dining.

Each restaurant offers unique twists on Cantonese classics. Whether you prioritize luxury, value, or dietary needs, Singapore’s scene has you covered.

Man Fu Yuan: A Deep Dive

At Man Fu Yuan, every dish tells a story of Cantonese tradition and innovation. This Cantonese restaurant at InterContinental Singapore blends time-honored techniques with modern flair. Led by Chef Aaron Tan, the kitchen team crafts dishes that have earned global acclaim.

Chef Aaron Tan’s Culinary Mastery

Chef Aaron Tan brings decades of expertise to Man Fu Yuan. His competition-winning recipes showcase precision and passion. One standout is the 48-hour Peking duck, where the skin achieves perfect crispness through meticulous preparation.

Another highlight? The truffle-infused xiao long bao. These soup dumplings burst with earthy aromas and rich broth. Chef Tan’s dedication to fresh ingredients ensures each bite delivers exceptional flavor.

Signature Dishes You Can’t Miss

Man Fu Yuan’s menu features unforgettable creations:

• Peking Duck: Air-dried for two days, served with house-made pancakes.
• Truffle Xiao Long Bao: Delicate wrappers filled with aromatic truffle broth.
• Steamed Lobster Dumplings: Succulent lobster paired with ginger-infused dough.

For special occasions, book the private dining room. It’s ideal for intimate gatherings or business dinners. The restaurant’s Level 1 access to Bugis Junction mall adds convenience for visitors.

Whether you’re a cuisine enthusiast or a first-time diner, Man Fu Yuan promises an extraordinary experience. From the signature dishes to the elegant ambiance, every detail reflects Cantonese excellence.

Tim Ho Wan’s Michelin-Starred Magic

What began as a humble Hong Kong eatery now serves legendary pork buns worldwide. Tim Ho Wan revolutionized affordable fine dining when its original location earned a Michelin star within ten months. Today, their Singapore outlets continue this tradition of excellence.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Fame

Founded in 2009 by ex-Four Seasons chefs, the Mongkok location made history as the world’s fastest michelin-starred restaurant. The brand expanded to Singapore in 2013, now operating five bustling outlets. Their secret? Maintaining street food prices despite the prestigious accolade.

“We wanted to prove exceptional dim sum shouldn’t require luxury budgets.”

Menu Highlights Worth Queuing For

These standout items showcase why crowds form daily:

• Baked BBQ Pork Buns (SGD $12): Flaky pastry with sweet-savory filling
• Marina Bay Sands Exclusive Roast Meats: Crispy-skinned specialties
• Weekday Lunch Sets: Complete meals under $15

Pro tip: Use their QMS mobile queue system to skip lines during peak hours.

Each dish reflects decades of Cantonese expertise. The baked buns alone have won awards for their perfect crust-to-filling ratio. For first-timers, the steamed egg cake makes an ideal sweet finale.

The Dim Sum Place: Halal Dim Sum Done Right

A halal-certified kitchen meets Cantonese tradition at this beloved local chain. With five outlets across Tampines and Bedok, The Dim Sum Place welcomes everyone with its inclusive approach. Their service ensures dietary needs never compromise flavor.

Inclusive Dining for All Communities

Every dish follows strict halal protocols, from prep to plating. The kitchen uses separate areas for meat and vegetarian ingredients, ensuring authenticity without cross-contamination. Families love the SGD $38 combo set—perfect for sharing.

Vegetarians aren’t left out either. Try their mock-meat siu mai or mushroom-stuffed rolls. The selection spans 80+ items, including congee and noodles for heartier appetites.

Top Halal Dim Sum Picks

Regulars rave about these must-tries:

• Chili Crab Dumplings: Spicy-sweet filling wrapped in translucent skins.
• Salted Egg Yolk Buns: Oozy custard with a buttery finish.
• Har Gow: Classic shrimp dumplings with a bouncy texture.

“Our goal is to make halal dim sum accessible without losing tradition.”

Skip the wait by booking via the Chope app. With an affordable range and efficient service, this spot proves halal dim sum can rival any classic Cantonese feast.

Signature Dim Sum Dishes to Try

Exploring Cantonese cuisine means discovering iconic bites that define the experience. These standout dishes showcase the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and technique. Whether you’re new to this style or a longtime fan, these creations deserve a spot on your table.

Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)

These delicate pouches hold a savory surprise—hot broth inside a thin wrapper. Different restaurants put their spin on this classic. Man Fu Yuan adds truffle oil for an earthy twist, while Tim Ho Wan sticks to traditional pork fillings.

Eating them right prevents spills and burns:

• Gently lift with chopsticks to avoid tearing
• Nibble a small hole to release steam
• Sip the broth before adding dipping sauce

The Dim Sum Place offers halal versions using chicken instead of pork. During winter, some spots introduce seasonal variations like crab roe-infused broth.

Salted Egg Yolk Custard Buns

Sweet meets savory in these golden buns oozing rich custard. The filling combines creamy salted egg yolk with butter for a luxurious taste. When done right, the bun stays fluffy while the center remains liquid.

Top spots prepare them fresh throughout the day. Look for:

• Soft, slightly sweet dough
• Generous filling that flows when broken
• Balanced saltiness without being overpowering

Glutinous Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf

This hearty dish packs fragrant rice with savory ingredients in an edible package. The lotus leaf infuses earthy aromas into the sticky rice during steaming. Common fillings include chicken, mushrooms, and sometimes Chinese sausage.

For gluten-sensitive diners, some kitchens prepare rice without soy sauce. The dish makes a satisfying meal on its own or pairs well with lighter bites.

Weekend Dim Sum Buffets Worth Visiting

The city’s weekend dining scene shines brightest during dim sum buffet hours. From free-flow champagne brunches to family-friendly spreads, Saturdays and Sundays offer unique Cantonese experiences. These meals turn traditional bites into celebratory feasts.

Man Fu Yuan’s Champagne Brunch

InterContinental’s man yuan weekend special elevates the experience with Perrier-Jouët champagne. For SGD $98, enjoy unlimited steamed har gow and siu mai alongside bubbly. Their live stations prepare fresh dumplings while you watch.

Key highlights include:

• Free-flow champagne from 11:30 AM to 3 PM
• Kid-friendly dessert corner with egg tarts
• Exclusive weekend-only lobster dumplings

Tim Ho Wan’s Saturday Specials

This Michelin-starred spot unveils truffle-infused creations just for weekend dim sum service. Their SGD $38 set menu features:

• Black truffle pork buns (weekend exclusive)
• Extra-large shrimp dumplings
• Peanut glutinous rice parcels

Pro tip: Reserve two weeks ahead for dim sum buffet spots. Weekend slots fill fast, especially at award-winning venues like Man Fu Yuan. Early birds often snag window seats with the best views.

Dim Sum Menus: What to Look For

Decoding a dim sum menu unlocks a world of Cantonese culinary artistry. These menus showcase both time-honored traditions and creative innovations. Understanding what to look for enhances your dining experience.

Classic vs. Modern Dim Sum Offerings

Traditional menus feature symbols marking preparation methods. Steamed items often have bamboo icons, while fried dishes might show woks. These visual cues help navigate the cuisine‘s diversity.

Modern twists have entered many menu selections. Cheese taro puffs blend Western and Asian taste profiles. Some restaurants even offer truffle-infused versions of classic dumplings.

How to Navigate a Dim Sum Menu

First-timers should prioritize these essentials:

• Har Gow: Translucent shrimp dumplings test a chef’s skill
• Siu Mai: Open-topped pork and shrimp dumplings
• Char Siu Bao: Fluffy buns with sweet barbecue pork

Dietary needs are easier with these markers:

For groups, order 2-3 dim sum menu items per person. Share steamed and fried selections for balanced flavors. Tea pairings cleanse the palate between rich bites.

Location Guide: Where to Find the Best Dim Sum

Finding exceptional dim sum starts with knowing the right locations across the city. Whether you prefer the energy of downtown or the charm of suburban eateries, Singapore offers diverse settings for Cantonese cuisine.

Central Singapore Hotspots

The Orchard Road and Marina Bay areas boast convenient access to top restaurants. Man Fu Yuan’s Bugis location connects directly to the MRT and shopping mall, making it ideal for visitors. During lunch hours (12-2 PM), expect wait times up to 30 minutes at popular spots.

Key advantages of central Singapore locations:

• Walkable from multiple MRT stations
• Valet parking available at hotel restaurants
• Extended hours for tourist convenience

Neighborhood Gems

Venture beyond downtown to discover authentic local favorites. The Dim Sum Place’s Bedok outlet serves the same quality dishes as their city locations, with shorter waits. Eastern suburbs like Tampines offer free parking and family-friendly neighborhood atmospheres.

Pro tip: Check GrabFood coverage before ordering. Most central Singapore restaurants deliver within 5km, while suburban spots may have wider delivery zones during off-peak hours.

Dim Sum Dining Etiquette

Tea rituals and sharing practices define authentic dim sum culture. These traditions turn meals into interactive experiences. Understanding them shows respect for Cantonese heritage while enhancing your dining pleasure.

Tea Pairings and Customs

Tea service follows specific etiquette rules. Leaving the pot lid slightly open signals servers for refills. Different varieties complement specific dishes:

• Jasmine tea: Cuts through rich pork flavors
• Pu-erh: Balances fried items with earthy notes
• Chrysanthemum: Refreshes between spicy bites

Always pour tea for others before yourself. Gently tap the table twice to thank someone who pours for you.

Sharing Dishes Properly

Family-style dining requires thoughtful sharing. Use serving chopsticks or spoon handles to transfer food. Never take the last piece without offering it to others first.

Follow these portion guidelines:

Most restaurants here include service charges, so tipping isn’t expected. Smart casual attire works for all but the most formal venues.

Chef Spotlights: Masters Behind the Dishes

Behind every exceptional dim sum dish stands a master chef with a unique culinary vision. Singapore’s vibrant food scene thrives thanks to these talented professionals who blend tradition with creativity.

Chef Aaron Tan’s Cantonese Innovations

At Man Fu Yuan, Chef Aaron Tan transforms classic recipes with modern techniques. His competition medals include gold at the World Master Chefs Competition for his signature truffle xiao long bao.

What sets his approach apart? “We respect tradition while embracing quality ingredients,” Tan explains. His mentorship program trains new chefs in both knife skills and innovative flavor pairing.

Chef Mak Kwai Pui’s Michelin Journey

From Hong Kong’s Lung King Heen to Tim Ho Wan, Chef Mak redefined affordable michelin-starred dining. His Bib Gourmand recognition celebrates dishes that deliver exceptional value without compromising quality.

“True mastery means making complex techniques look simple. That’s when dim sum becomes art.”

Both chefs offer exclusive chef’s table experiences. These intimate dinners showcase their distinct philosophies:

Their shared commitment to Cantonese cuisine keeps Singapore at the forefront of global dim sum culture. Whether through competitions or daily service, these chefs shape the future of the craft.

Affordable vs. Luxury Dim Sum Experiences

Singapore’s dim sum scene caters to every wallet, from street food prices to lavish feasts. The price spectrum reflects different dining philosophies—some prioritize accessibility while others focus on premium ingredients. Both approaches deliver authentic Cantonese flavors through distinct experiences.

Budget-Friendly Cantonese Feasts

For under SGD $20, you can enjoy satisfying meals at these spots:

• Tim Ho Wan’s weekday sets (from $15) include their famous pork buns
• The Dim Sum Place’s budget-friendly combos feed two for $38
• Neighborhood hawkers serving steamed buns under $2 each

These affordable options prove you don’t need fancy decor for great flavor. Many use the same fresh ingredients as upscale spots but minimize service costs.

High-End Dim Sum Splurges

Luxury venues transform dim sum into gastronomic art. Expect:

“Luxury dim sum isn’t about being expensive—it’s about honoring ingredients through perfect technique.”

For special occasions, Man Fu Yuan’s $120 champagne brunch delivers unmatched elegance. Their high-end experience includes tableside tea service and rare ingredients.

Dim Sum for Special Diets

Dietary restrictions shouldn’t limit your dim sum enjoyment. Singapore’s vibrant food scene offers creative solutions for various needs. Whether you follow plant-based, halal, or gluten-free diets, flavorful options await.

Vegetarian and Vegan Finds

Many restaurants now feature meat-free versions of classics. The Dim Sum Place leads with mushroom-based “char siu” and tofu siu mai. Their kitchen uses separate stations to prevent cross-contamination.

Top picks for plant-based diners:

• Vegetarian crystal dumplings with bamboo shoots
• Vegan custard buns using coconut milk
• Gluten-free rice wrappers for har gow

Call ahead for specialty items—some require 24-hour notice. Weekend brunches often have expanded vegetarian selections.

Halal-Certified Cantonese Fare

Muslim-friendly spots maintain tradition while adhering to strict guidelines. The Dim Sum Place’s halal kitchen prepares shrimp dumplings with certified poultry substitutes. Their chili crab buns use seafood alternatives.

“We redesigned 30 traditional recipes to meet diverse needs without losing authenticity.”

Most venues label menus clearly—look for 🌱 or 🕌 symbols. When in doubt, servers can explain preparation methods.

How to Order Dim Sum Like a Pro

Strategic ordering unlocks the freshest flavors and smoothest service at top Cantonese eateries. Whether you’re a first-timer or regular, these techniques ensure you enjoy dishes at their peak while avoiding common pitfalls. Let’s explore how timing and special requests can elevate your meal.

Mastering the Clock for Peak Freshness

Arriving during peak hours (11 AM-1 PM weekdays, 9-11 AM weekends) guarantees freshly steamed batches. Kitchens prepare new rounds every 20 minutes—time your order to catch these cycles. Most spots stop taking dim sum requests by 2:30 PM as they switch to dinner prep.

For the smoothest experience:

• Weekday lunches after 1:30 PM mean shorter waits but limited selections
• Early weekend arrivals secure the full menu before popular items sell out
• Call ahead for chef’s specials that require advance preparation

Tailoring Your Perfect Meal

Don’t hesitate to customize—most restaurants accommodate requests like:

Loyalty programs at chains like The Dim Sum Place offer free tea upgrades or priority seating. Multilingual staff at major venues can explain dishes in Mandarin, English, or Malay upon request.

“Regulars know to ask for the ‘morning specials sheet’—it lists items made with market-fresh ingredients.”

Dim Sum Delivery and Takeaway Options

Enjoying restaurant-quality dim sum at home has never been easier. Many top spots now offer reliable delivery services with specialized containers that preserve texture and heat. Whether you’re hosting or craving a solo feast, these options bring Cantonese flavors to your doorstep.

Top Picks for At-Home Enjoyment

The Dim Sum Place leads with islandwide coverage through multiple platforms. Their partnership with GrabFood and Foodpanda ensures quick delivery across eastern neighborhoods. Other notable choices include:

• Tim Ho Wan’s exclusive takeaway sets with reheating instructions
• Man Fu Yuan’s premium banquet packages for special occasions
• Neighborhood bakeries offering steamed buns for grab-and-go meals

Smart Packaging Solutions

Innovative packaging makes the difference between soggy and perfect dumplings. Look for these features:

Most restaurants use compostable materials that keep food warm for 45 minutes. The Dim Sum Place’s patented steam-lock technology extends freshness up to two hours.

Pro Tips for Takeaway Success

Follow these simple steps for optimal results:

1. Check minimum orders (typically SGD $20-30)
2. Request extra napkins and utensils if needed
3. Reheat steamed items for just 90 seconds
4. Enjoy fried items immediately for best texture

“Our thermal bags maintain perfect temperatures during transit—just open upon arrival for restaurant-quality presentation.”

First-time users can often find promo codes on restaurant social media pages. Many venues offer 10-15% discounts for advance online orders.

Conclusion

From luxurious champagne pairings to wallet-friendly bites, Singapore’s dim sum scene dazzles. Man Fu Yuan impresses with truffle-infused creations, while Tim Ho Wan delivers Michelin magic on a budget. For halal options, The Dim Sum Place shines with its inclusive menus.

Try different price tiers—each offers a unique take on Cantonese classics. Book ahead, especially for weekend brunches or chef’s specials. Seasonal items like winter crab roe dumplings are worth anticipating.

Loved our recommendations? Share your favorite spots and tag us! Whether it’s your first visit or a regular ritual, these restaurants promise an unforgettable experience.