In search of the tastiest and most authentic dim sum restaurants in Dubai? From trendy hangouts to a popular Taiwanese restaurant, check out these top places for Chinese food and more.
1. Din Tai Fung
Din Tai Fung – the only Taiwanese restaurant in the world to have been awarded a Michelin star – has everyone queuing for a table. The famous Xiaolongbao dumplings and steamed chicken soup have finally found their way onto the Dubai food scene. Greeted by a friendly chorus of “Hello, welcome, ni hao”, the restaurant, with its Chinese influences and inspired dishes, feels like it has been plucked from the streets of Taiwan.
Price: Around AED 22 to AED 36 for a bamboo steamer of 6 Xiaolongbao dumplings
Location: Mall of the Emirates
insydo tip: It gets busy here and we mean extremely busy. Expect to see long queues from the minute Din Tai Fung Dubai opens.
2. Royal China
Sophisticated in design, Royal China is as regal-looking as its name suggests. Famous for its traditional dim sum, you can expect some of the city’s best handmade parcels and an array of classic Chinese dishes. While portions are fairly small, the quality of food is fantastic; each plate takes you on a little trip to China. For a fabulous blend of textures and flavours, we love the ‘Crispy Shredded Beef‘ served in ‘Bird’s Nest‘ (crispy noodles).
Price: Around AED 89 for a Fried Dim Sum platter
Location: Precinct Building 4, DIFC
insydo tip: Royal China hosts a non-alcohol brunch from 12pm to 5pm on Fridays where you can enjoy dim sum and tea.
3. Hakkasan Dubai
Hakkasan Dubai blends modern Chinese fusion with a traditional twist. Linear patterns and tasteful furnishings set against the rich oak latticing, provide the perfect backdrop for a tasteful evening of Chinese culture and cuisine. The art deco Ling Lounge adds a further dimension to the experience; the décor is equally as captivating, and the Asian-inspired cocktails add a further touch of class.
Price: Around AED 55 to 180 for small eats
Location: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Trade Centre
insydo tip: If you’re a fan of high tea, you’ll be happy to know that Hakkasan offers an Afternoon Tea every Saturday, from 3pm to 6pm. Indulge in a selection of traditional Chinese teas, dim sum and desserts.
4. Asia Asia
Paying tribute to the ancient spice routes that injected the world with flavour, the lavish menu and stunning interiors at Asia Asia lounge make it an energetic hotspot to hit for after-work drinks, ladies night and weekend brunches in Dubai Marina. Serving up dishes ideal for sharing, this venue is the perfect place to go with a big group.
Price: Around AED 85 for a Dim Sum Basket of 8 pieces
Location: Pier 7, Dubai Marina
insydo tip: We’d suggest to request a table by the centre if you’ll be sitting outside; tables to the side only offer views of the mall.
5. Wakame
Serving up contemporary Asian-inspired dishes in an uber-trendy setting, Wakame is a Downtown hotspot that specialises in sushi and dim sum. From spinach and cream cheese dim sum to truffle chicken and prawn soup dumpling, this popular restaurant in Dubai is definitely one worth checking out.
Price: Around AED 70 for the braised lamb shoulder steamed bun
Location: Hotel Sofitel Dubai, Downtown Dubai
insydo tip: Head down on Thursdays from 5pm to midnight for their mix ‘n mingle promotion; enjoy selected beverages in the lounge from AED 20.
Food lover? From brunches to breakfast in Dubai, check out our ‘Eat‘ category.