Dim Sum London: Your Quick Guide to the City’s Best Bites

If you’re craving fluffy dumplings, steamed buns, and crispy rolls, London has a growing dim sum scene that’s easy to navigate. You don’t need a culinary degree to spot a good spot – just follow a few simple rules and you’ll be biting into perfect parcels in no time.

Top Neighborhoods for Authentic Dim Sum

First, head to the areas where Chinese communities have settled for the freshest flavors. Chinatown on Gerrard Street still hosts the classic tea houses, but don’t overlook newer hubs in Hammersmith, Ealing, and even Shoreditch. In Chinatown, Royal China Club offers a traditional cart service during weekend brunches. The carts roll around, and you can point to the dishes you want – a fun, interactive way to try a variety.

In Hammersmith, Peking Garden blends a modern vibe with a solid dim sum menu. Their har gow (shrimp dumplings) are translucent and burst with flavor. Over in Ealing, Dim Sum House keeps prices low without sacrificing quality – the pork siu mai here stay juicy and the egg tarts are sweet without being soggy.

What to Order First

You might feel overwhelmed by the menu, but start with a few crowd‑pleasers. Har gow, siu mai, and char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) are safe bets. If you’re feeling adventurous, ask for:

• Chicken feet – a classic that’s surprisingly tender.
• Lotus leaf rice – sticky rice wrapped in a fragrant leaf.
• Turnip cake – pan‑fried and crisp on the edges.

Don’t order everything at once; dim sum is meant to be shared slowly over tea. Speaking of tea, ask for a pot of pu‑erh or jasmine – the tea helps cleanse your palate between bites.

Timing matters, too. Most places serve their best dim sum between 11 am and 2 pm on weekends. Arriving early guarantees a seat and fresh carts. If you show up after 3 pm, the selection may shrink and the kitchen might start winding down.

Budget‑wise, expect to spend £10‑£20 per person for a decent spread. Some upscale venues charge higher, but they often include specialty items like truffle‑infused dumplings or foie gras bao. Decide what experience you want and match it to your wallet.

Finally, check whether the restaurant takes reservations. Smaller tea houses operate on a first‑come, first‑served basis, while larger spots like Yauatcha in Broadgate require a booking for weekend brunch. A quick phone call or online check can save you an hour of waiting.

With these tips, you’re ready to hunt down the best dim sum London has to offer. Grab a friend, order a pot of tea, and let the carts roll. Happy feasting!