5 Essential Dim Sum Dishes For First-Timers

Walking into a dim sum restaurant for the first time can feel like stepping into a treasure chest of mystery baskets. Those rolling carts, the steam rising from bamboo containers, and the delicious aromas swirling around you create an experience that’s equal parts exciting and overwhelming.

But don’t worry, because starting with a few classic dishes will turn you from nervous newbie to confident connoisseur in no time.

1. Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)

Picture a delicate, translucent wrapper so thin you can see the pink shrimp peeking through like a little edible surprise package. Har gow represents the gold standard of dim sum craftsmanship, and chefs are judged by how perfectly they can fold these beauties.

Inside, whole shrimp mingle with bamboo shoots to create a sweet, slightly crunchy bite that melts in your mouth. If the wrapper has at least fourteen pleats, you know the chef takes their work seriously.

Just saying, this dish alone is worth the trip.

2. Siu Mai (Pork and Shrimp Dumplings)

With their open-topped design showing off the savory filling like a crown, siu mai brings both flavor and flair to your table. Ground pork teams up with juicy shrimp to create a combo that’s basically the superhero duo of the dumpling world.

Often topped with a tiny dot of crab roe or a mushroom slice, these golden parcels pack umami goodness in every bite. They’re forgiving for beginners because you can pick them up easily with chopsticks.

Pro tip: dip them in a little soy sauce mixed with chili oil for extra zing.

3. Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)

Imagine biting into a cloud that’s hiding a treasure of sweet and savory barbecued pork inside. That’s char siu bao in a nutshell, a fluffy steamed bun that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

The contrast between the pillowy-soft exterior and the sticky, caramelized pork filling creates a flavor explosion that keeps people coming back for more. Fun fact: some restaurants also offer baked versions with a golden, slightly crispy top.

Whether steamed or baked, these buns are comfort food royalty.

4. Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls)

Silky, slippery, and seriously addictive, cheung fun glides across your plate like edible satin ribbons. These wide rice noodle sheets get rolled around fillings like shrimp, beef, or crispy fried dough, then drizzled with sweet soy sauce.

The texture is what makes this dish stand out—smooth and tender with just enough chew to keep things interesting. Though it might look simple, getting that perfect consistency takes real skill.

If you love noodles but want something different from the usual suspects, this is your jam.

5. Lo Mai Gai (Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf)

Unwrapping lo mai gai feels like opening a present, because it arrives at your table bundled in a fragrant lotus leaf that perfumes the sticky rice inside. Once you peel back the leaf, you’ll discover tender chicken, shiitake mushrooms, and Chinese sausage nestled in perfectly seasoned glutinous rice.

The lotus leaf isn’t just for show—it infuses the rice with an earthy, slightly floral aroma you won’t find anywhere else. This dish is heartier than most dim sum options, making it perfect if you’re extra hungry.