The Best Dim Sum in London

The Chinese tradition of dim sum dates back to the 19th century, when Silk Road traders would take breaks in tea houses and enjoy a selection of small dishes, such as dumplings and noodle rolls. As they continued to travel, the practice began to spread across the region, becoming particularly popular in Hong Kong. Nowadays, the delicious custom is commonplace all over the country – and, lucky for us, it has made its way over to UK shores too. Here’s where to find the best dim sum in London. 

The Best Dim Sum in London

The Dim Sum Terrace at Harrods

With a multitude of distinguished eateries, Harrods has already established itself as a destination for foodies (and hungry shoppers). Its latest culinary addition? The Dim Sum Terrace. Located on the iconic store’s fourth floor with views overlooking West London, the restaurant is an ideal post-shop pit stop, but equally an intimate date-night destination, or place to catch up with friends over cocktails and a selection of small plates. 

As expected, the menu offers a wide range of dim sum made fresh every morning – from Saffron King Crab to Poached Lamb and Morel & Wild Mushroom. Of course, diners are not limited to Dim Sum; there is a hefty selection of alternate dishes which are just as appetising, including Wagyu Dan Dan Noodles, Popcorn Shrimp, and an absolute must: Truffle Cheese Wontons, (trust us). The signature cocktails are bold and beautiful, but if you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, opt for one of their traditional Chinese teas, served in an elegant glass teapot.

Room, 87, Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Rd, London SW1X 7XL, harrods.com

Din Tai Fung Centre Point

This Taiwanese restaurant has something of a cult following, particularly surrounding its signature dish: some very tasty soup dumplings called Xiao Long Bao. There are now branches in countries all over the world, including three in London – the most recent launch being in the West End’s Centre Point. Wherever you are, though, the concept is the same: canteen-style dim sum, prepared with flair and precision – apparently each dumpling takes 40 minutes to make, folded with exactly 18 pleats. It’s not all about these pillowy parcels of joy though: there’s also the famous steamed chicken soup, which is simmered to perfection for over six hours. Don’t be put off by the chain element: Din Tai Fung was the first Taiwanese restaurant to be awarded a Michelin star, and it has secured numerous accolades over the years.

Unit R04, Centre Point, 11 St Giles Square, London WC2H 8AP, dintaifung-uk.com

Yauatcha

With locations in Soho and the City, Yauatcha offers authentic Cantonese cuisine in a sleek and modern setting. Expect superior dim sum – think har gau, scallop shui mai, and the wickedly delicious seafood black truffle dumpling – as well as Yauatcha’s speciality handmade sweets.

Multiple locations, yauatcha.com

Park Chinois

Head to Mayfair on a Saturday to experience Park Chinois’ Afternoon Soiree. Offering a decadent dining experience, guests can enjoy a mixture of small and larger plates, including the chef’s selection of dim sum, before finishing off with a seasonal dessert special. During the meal, you can expect circus-style performances.

17 Berkeley St, London W1J 8EA, parkchinois.com

Opium Chinatown

A 1920s-themed Shanghai speakeasy located in the heart of Chinatown, you’ll find Opium hidden behind a jade coloured door. This secret haven offers three separate bars, each with its own distinctive design, drinks, seating style and personality. Offering a range of experimental and distinctive cocktails alongside authentic dim sum, you’re guaranteed a truly special night out in Soho. And for the night owls looking for late-night dining, it’s open till 3am every Thursday to Saturday.

15-16 Gerrard St, London W1D 6JE, opiumchinatown.com

New Loon Fung

This hidden gem has a cult following of regulars who return again and again. Energetic and bustling, it offers a truly authentic dining experience with seriously good and traditional Cantonese dim sum. Plus it’s got its own supermarket below, so you can pick up ingredients to try and make your own at home.

1/F-4/F, 42-43 Gerrard St, London W1D 5QG, chinatown.co.uk

Tao Tao Ju

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Chinatown sits the award-winning Tao Tao Ju. Following in the culinary tradition of Chinese home-style cooking, its dim sum is excellent. Choose from the extensive wine list and enjoy dumpling favourites like Har Gau and Pork Siu Mai in its airy and open dining room.

15 Lisle St, London WC2H 7BE, taotaoju.co.uk

Featured image: Opium London