8 Dim Sum Dishes Every Food Traveler Must Try at Least Once

Dim sum is a flavorful journey worth taking for any food lover. Served in small portions and meant for sharing, it offers a mix of textures, aromas, and tastes that reflect centuries of Cantonese culinary tradition. From delicate dumplings to sweet pastries, each bite is a chance to explore something new. Here are eight iconic dim sum dishes every food traveler should try at least once.

Har Gow

Har gow is one of the stars of dim sum, instantly recognizable by its delicate, translucent wrapper and neat pleats. The skin, made from rice flour, is thin but resilient, holding a plump filling of sweet shrimp often enhanced with ginger, sesame oil, or bamboo shoots. Each dumpling is steamed until tender, offering a perfect balance of chewiness and freshness. The subtle seasoning lets the natural flavor of the shrimp shine through, making them delicious on their own or with a dash of soy sauce or chili oil for extra punch.

Siu Mai

Siu mai is a classic open-topped dumpling that delivers a juicy, savory bite every time. The filling blends tender ground pork with sweet shrimp, sometimes with mushrooms or scallions for extra aroma. Topped with a small dot of crab roe or carrot, it’s as visually appealing as it is tasty. Steamed to perfection, the meat stays moist, and the thin wrapper adds just enough texture. Whether served as part of a dim sum spread or enjoyed on its own, siu mai offers a satisfying mix of flavors that appeal to both first-time diners and seasoned dim sum lovers.

Cheong Fun

Cheong fun is a silky, delicate rice noodle sheet rolled around savory fillings such as shrimp, BBQ pork, or vegetables. The noodles are thin yet soft, with a smooth texture that almost melts in your mouth. A generous drizzle of sweet soy sauce adds just the right amount of flavor, creating a perfect balance between savory and sweet. This dish is all about simplicity and texture, allowing the freshness of the filling to shine. Whether enjoyed plain or with added chili sauce, cheong fun is a comforting and elegant dim sum choice.

Lor Mai Kai

Lor mai kai is a hearty dim sum dish that combines sticky glutinous rice with a rich, savory filling. Wrapped in a fragrant lotus leaf, the rice absorbs its earthy aroma during steaming. Inside, you’ll often find tender chicken, slices of Chinese sausage, mushrooms, and dried shrimp, all seasoned with soy sauce and oyster sauce. Each bite offers layers of flavor and texture, from the chewiness of the rice to the tenderness of the meat. It’s one of the more filling dim sum options, making it perfect if you want something warm, satisfying, and deeply flavorful.

Lo Bak Go

Lo bak go is a savory cake made from grated white radish mixed with rice flour and studded with bits of Chinese sausage, dried shrimp, and mushrooms. First steamed, then pan-fried, it develops a crisp, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with its soft, smooth interior. The mild radish flavor is enhanced by the smoky, umami-packed add-ins, making each bite flavorful without being heavy. Often enjoyed during Chinese New Year for its symbolic meaning of prosperity, this dish is also a year-round dim sum favorite for its comforting taste and satisfying texture.

Daan Taat

Daan taat is the perfect sweet treat to end a dim sum meal. A buttery, flaky pastry shell holds a smooth, golden custard made from eggs, milk, and sugar. Served warm, the filling has a silky texture with a gentle wobble and just the right amount of sweetness. The light, fragrant flavor pairs beautifully with tea, making it a refreshing contrast to savory dim sum dishes. These tarts are small enough to enjoy in a few bites, yet so tasty you’ll find yourself reaching for more. Freshly baked ones disappear quickly, so they’re best enjoyed straight from the oven.

Char Siu Bao

Char siu bao comes in two delicious varieties: steamed and baked. The steamed version is soft, fluffy, and pure white, while the baked one has a shiny, golden-brown crust with a slightly crisp bite. Inside both is a generous filling of BBQ pork, marinated in a sweet-savory sauce that’s rich, sticky, and full of flavor. The contrast between the light bun and the bold filling makes every bite satisfying. A staple on dim sum carts, char siu bao is loved for its comforting flavor and versatility, appealing to both new dim sum eaters and long-time fans.

Wu Gok

Wu gok is a deep-fried dim sum delight that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. The outer layer, made from mashed taro, forms a delicate, lace-like crust when fried, giving it a light, airy crunch. Inside, you’ll find a savory pork filling seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and spices. The contrast between the crisp exterior, creamy taro layer, and juicy filling creates a unique bite that’s rich yet not too heavy. Wu gok’s intricate texture and bold flavor make it a favorite among those looking for something a little different on the dim sum menu.