We have created a guide to Sydney’s best yum cha, to satisfy all your hot and steamy dumpling dreams.
Yum cha holds a special place in the hearts of Sydneysiders, an adopted custom that has become an ingrained part of life. For those not savvy with this cultural marvel, yum cha is a Cantonese custom of brunch involving dim sum or dumplings and tea. Perfect for all occasions, the only contact needed across the large table is to request permission to turn the Lazy Susan. From traditional yum cha to modern, fun takes on the unique dining experience, here is our updated list of the top spots to get your yum cha fix across Sydney.
Panda Yum Cha, Macquarie Park
Panda Yum Cha is a family-friendly restaurant offering a delightful dim sum experience alongside modern Chinese cuisine. Step into their expansive dining hall and be transported to a vibrant Chinese streetscape, complete with a friendly panda mascot. While robot waiters add a touch of fun, the heart of the experience lies in the delicious food. Their dim sum is handcrafted daily using classic recipes and fresh produce. Pair Har Gow and Char Siu Bao with signature dishes like Peking Duck or Kung Pao Wagyu for a satisfying exploration into the Cantonese tradition. Vegetarian options and delectable desserts round out the menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Queen Chow, Enmore & Manly
Craving a vibrant and modern take on yum cha? Look no further than Queen Chow, with locations in Enmore and Manly. This Merivale eatery sheds the traditional dim sum trappings in favour of a stylish and energetic atmosphere. Think light-filled spaces, an up-tempo playlist, and a menu that showcases the lighter side of Cantonese cuisine. Their signature is oversized, soup-filled xiao long bao, bursting with flavour. Delicate dumplings with unexpected fillings like jade seafood and crystal pumpkin sit alongside classics like pork and prawn ha gow. Crispy duck, fragrant with five-spice, is perfectly complemented by refreshing salads, ensuring a balanced and satisfying meal.
Mama Mulan, Chatswood
Visit Mama Mulan in Chatswood for an unforgettable yum cha experience. Available at lunch only, the mouth-watering yum cha menu features their famous steamed and fried dumplings, a selection of rice rolls, sweet treats and so much more. Traditional Chinese techniques and flavours, local meats, and seasonal produce combine to make this one of the best yum cha menus in Sydney. Plus, the sleek, minimalistic dining room features an open kitchen as the focal point, so you can watch the masters at work.
One Dining, Haymarket
One Dining’s serene setting offers a beautiful backdrop to their sophisticated yum cha menu. Think classic favourites like char siu pork buns alongside more adventurous creations like truffle wagyu spring rolls and pumpkin lobster dumplings. The menu caters to all tastes, with larger plates like signature fried rice and slow-cooked pork belly available if you’re feeling extra hungry. While you savour your meal, take in the picturesque garden views and enjoy a leisurely dim sum experience.
Spice Temple, CBD
Spice Temple has your upmarket yum cha covered. You have the option of a la carte or banquet menu at this Bligh St venue, with the Golden Banquet setting you back $139 per person or the Premium Banquet at $159 per person. On the seasonal menu, you’ll find classic yum cha style dishes alongside Spice Temple’s own additions, like the Hot and numbing Pure Black Angus Scotch Fillet. A must-visit venue for those wanting to discover a modern twist on yum cha dining in Sydney.
Mr Wong, Sydney CBD
While Mr. Wong isn’t strictly a traditional yum cha experience, it can be a fantastic option for a more luxurious take on dim sum. This Merivale favourite offers a beautiful 1930s Shanghai-inspired setting, perfect for a special occasion or a glamorous lunch with friends. Unlike most yum cha restaurants, you order à la carte here, allowing you to tailor your experience and avoid over-ordering. Their steamed dim sum platter is a great introduction, showcasing highlights like scallop shumai and har gau. For a real treat, add a half-serve of their iconic Peking duck with pancakes – it’s a Sydney staple for a reason!
East Ocean, Haymarket
This Chinatown favourite has been filling the bellies of Sydneysiders for some time and is another classic style yum cha spot that always draws a crowd. Take your pick off the trolleys full of traditional dumplings and dim sum that trawl the bustling dining hall.
Suki, Mona Vale
For a modern twist on yum cha, this spot in the Northern Beaches should be on your list. Choose from a selection of modern Asian dishes with flavours inspired by Japan, Thailand, China, and Vietnam. From ordering off their menu to letting the chefs pick by going with a set menu, the choice is yours. Every Sunday from 1-4pm, it’s all about yum cha. Bring the girls and feast on juicy dumplings, pulled pork san choy bow, mango crème brûlée custard tarts and more for only $59 per person. They also do daily Happy Hours, including $20 dumplings! If that doesn’t entice you, I don’t know what will.
Chin Chin, Surry Hills
An old favourite has been revived for the Autumn season. Every weekend from 12-3pm till the end of May, this popular joint is serving a boozy yum cha with bottomless drinks for $89pp for 90 minutes, or $109pp for a 2-hour feast. This includes favourites such as Prawn Wontons and BBQ Pork Buns, alongside drinks including Alpino Prosecco, Young Henrys Newtowner and their strawberry and yuzu infused Jasmine Dream cocktail. Book ahead or walk-in to try this limited time experience.
Frequently asked questions:
What is the best-rated yum cha in Sydney?
According to Google Reviews, Mr Wong, Queen Chow and Vinh Phat offer the best yum cha in Sydney.
What is the best vegan yum cha restaurant in Sydney?
For vegan yum cha in Sydney, Green Gourmet in St Leonards is a must-visit.
What is the difference between yum cha and dim sum?
Yum cha refers to the Cantonese tradition of brunch where diners enjoy dishes such as dumplings and drink tea. Dim sum refers to the small dishes themselves.
Does yum cha cater to vegetarians?
There is usually plenty of vegetarian options to choose from at yum cha restaurants. These include vegetarian dumplings, steamed rice noodle rolls and so much more.
Got a yum cha menu to add to our guide? Reach out – newsletter@eatdrinkplay.com
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