A Guide to the Best Places to Eat Dim Sum in Hong Kong for a Date
Hong Kong is renowned for its dim sum culture, and sharing this delicious cuisine can make for an intimate and fun date. Whether you’re looking for a romantic ambiance, authentic flavors, or a modern twist, these dim sum spots cater perfectly to a date setting.
1. Mott 32
Location: Central
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Romantic, dimly lit interiors with a blend of modern and traditional Chinese decor.
Creative dim sum menu with luxurious twists (e.g., Iberico pork char siu and truffle dumplings).
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy sugar-coated BBQ pork buns.
South Australian lobster dumplings.
Tips: Book a table in advance, as it’s a popular spot for special occasions.
2. Duddell’s
Location: Central
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Michelin-starred restaurant with chic interiors and a rooftop garden for post-dinner drinks.
Contemporary take on dim sum with elegant plating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed crystal shrimp dumplings.
Wagyu beef puff.
Tips: Pair the meal with their curated wine or tea selections for a luxurious touch.
3. Tin Lung Heen
Location: ICC, West Kowloon
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Stunning panoramic views of Victoria Harbour from the 102nd floor of the Ritz-Carlton.
Exquisite Cantonese dishes in an upscale setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed pork dumplings with crab roe.
BBQ pork buns with honey glaze.
Tips: Perfect for a lunch date to enjoy the breathtaking daytime views.
4. DimDimSum Dim Sum Specialty Store
Location: Multiple locations (e.g., Mong Kok, Wan Chai)
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Casual and cozy atmosphere ideal for a relaxed and fun date.
Affordable yet highly praised dim sum options with a mix of classics and creative dishes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy BBQ pork buns.
Eggplant stuffed with shrimp paste.
Tips: Try their custard buns shaped like cartoon characters for a playful touch.
5. Tim Ho Wan
Location: Multiple locations (e.g., Sham Shui Po, Central)
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Famous Michelin-starred dim sum chain offering affordable yet high-quality dishes.
Perfect for foodies who appreciate authentic and no-frills dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked BBQ pork buns.
Steamed egg cake.
Tips: Arrive early or prepare to queue, as it’s a hotspot for locals and tourists alike.
6. Yum Cha
Location: Central, Tsim Sha Tsui
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Instagram-worthy presentation of dim sum with fun and modern twists (e.g., custard buns that "cry" when poked).
Bright, stylish interiors with a relaxed vibe.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ piggy buns.
Hot custard molten buns.
Tips: Perfect for a playful date with photo opportunities.
7. Man Wah
Location: Mandarin Oriental, Central
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Luxurious ambiance with intricate decor and stunning views of Victoria Harbour.
Traditional Cantonese dim sum with impeccable service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed lobster dumplings.
Golden scallop dumplings.
Tips: Opt for the weekend dim sum brunch for an extended, leisurely date experience.
8. Spring Moon
Location: The Peninsula Hotel, Tsim Sha Tsui
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Art Deco interiors exuding elegance and charm.
Traditional dim sum made with premium ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Abalone puff pastries.
Shrimp and caviar dumplings.
Tips: After your meal, enjoy a stroll along the nearby waterfront promenade.
9. Dragon-I
Location: Central
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
A trendy spot blending dim sum with a vibrant lounge atmosphere.
Great for a day-to-night transition, with dim sum during the day and drinks in the evening.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shrimp dumplings with black truffle.
Szechuan-style dumplings.
Tips: Visit on Sundays for their popular brunch buffet.
10. Maxim’s Palace
Location: City Hall, Central
Why It’s Perfect for a Date:
Traditional dim sum experience served on push carts in a grand banquet hall setting.
A lively yet romantic atmosphere with harbor views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed siu mai with crab roe.
Lotus leaf rice.
Tips: Arrive early, especially on weekends, as it gets crowded quickly.
Tips for a Dim Sum Date in Hong Kong
Plan Ahead: Popular dim sum spots often have long waits, so reservations or early arrivals are essential.
Order to Share: Dim sum is perfect for sharing, making it an interactive and engaging experience.
Experiment with Flavors: Try a mix of traditional and modern dishes to keep the date exciting.
Choose Complementary Drinks: Pair with tea, such as jasmine or pu-erh, for a traditional experience.
Dress for the Occasion: Some upscale places have a smart-casual dress code, so dress accordingly.
With this guide, you can choose the perfect dim sum restaurant in Hong Kong to set the tone for a memorable and delicious date. Whether you prefer luxury dining or casual charm, Hong Kong’s dim sum scene has something for everyone.
