Dim sum, or yum cha, is the Cantonese equivalent to brunch, that thankfully isn’t limited to weekends (some of our parents and grandparents go daily!) The best way to dim sum is with a minimum of four people (as dishes are typically served in three to four small bite-sized pieces.) The more people you have, the more you can order, and the better the variety, so it’s a win-win all around. We’ve shortlisted the most popular places to have dim sum in various pockets of Vancouver and surrounding.
Vancouver – East
New Mandarin – High ceilings and chandeliers amidst a generally un-glitzy stretch of Kingsway in East Van.
Pelican Seafood – We love the pillowy-soft steamed buns filled with warm, runny egg custard. Expect no-frills, brisk service. This is a go-to for our family for large groups (they have tables that can seat 17!)
Pink Pearl – A 40+ year-old local institution that has undergone some modern renos, Pink Pearl is one of the few remaining spots with pushcarts circulating the room.
Royal Palace – Classic dim sum done well. Newly opened in Spring 2022 but as it goes in the industry, the chefs come from decades of experience.
Sun Sui Wah – A long-time favoured banquet spot, Sun Sui Wah is an OG upscale experience, and delivers traditional and creative new items with efficient service.
Western Lake – Great selection and generous portions make for a dim sum hot spot. Be prepared for a packed room and boisterous energy. Head there early to lessen your wait time.
Vancouver – West
Regal Mansion – Taking over the former Kirin spot and taking it up a notch, Regal Mansion is great for a business lunch or guests to impress. Make reservations well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Dynasty Seafood – Arguably might be overshadowed by their excellent dinner menu and service, this is still a trusted go-to spot for very good dim sum. One thing to note, they don’t do stuffed rice rolls (cheung fun). Last we checked, underground parking validation is offered.
Neptune Palace – serving the south end of town at Marine Gateway, this is one of our regularly frequented spots – spacious with lots of tables, relatively central and accessible, good food and service.
Burnaby
Lee Garden – this one checks most of the boxes, making it a popular spot for Burnaby. Big room, nicely spaced out, boisterous vibes without being overly loud, good food and quick, attentive service.
Marble House Eatery – tucked into Crystal Mall, this place is known for their tableside claypot rice.
Richmond
Chef Tony – one of the first to break out on the scene, setting the standard for a new wave of more opulent, premium dim sum (think truffle everything).
Fortune Terrace – also higher end, leaning heavy into the trend of creative and ‘cute’ presentation, but the food is good.
Coquitlam/Tri-Cities
Kam Ding – a popular one in Coquitlam with pushcarts and fresh rice rolls made to order. A bit of a small hole in the wall but the service is fast, and best of all, you can order dim sum all day, with old school push cart service until 1pm.
Vegetarian
Po Kong – this long-running restaurant has been serving vegetarians for decades, with an impressive full veg dimsum menu.
Sun Bo Kong – slightly newer than with a similar name and menu as Po Kong (but different ownership). We’ll let you be the judge which one takes the edge!