There are few culinary experiences as joyous and communal as yum cha (literally “drinking tea”), the tradition of gathering for dim sum. These small, exquisite dishes, designed to be shared, are more than just a meal—they are a celebration. The term “dim sum” itself translates to “touch the heart,” and that’s precisely what we aim to do here at Qianxi Restaurant.
Our chefs, trained in the traditional art of dim sum, craft each piece with precision and passion. For those new to the experience, the sheer variety can be wonderfully overwhelming. For seasoned veterans, it’s a comforting ritual.
To help guide your next visit, we’ve gathered our list of the 10 must-try dim sum dishes that are staples on our carts.
The 10 Dim Sum Essentials
1. Har Gow (Crystal Shrimp Dumplings)
This is the quintessential dim sum dish. You can often judge a dim sum kitchen by its har gow. The wrapper should be delicate and translucent, yet strong enough to hold the generous filling of plump, juicy shrimp. It’s a perfect first bite—clean, savory, and wonderfully “QQ” (a term for that perfect chewy, bouncy texture).
2. Siu Mai (Pork and Shrimp Dumplings)
If har gow is the king, siu mai is the queen. These open-topped dumplings are a savory powerhouse, traditionally filled with a combination of ground pork, shrimp, and mushrooms, often garnished with a dot of fish roe or a green pea. Ours are juicy, fragrant, and a universal crowd-pleaser.
3. Char Siu Bao (Steamed BBQ Pork Buns)
Like a fluffy, savory cloud. These snowy-white steamed buns are famous for their “split” top, revealing a mouth-watering interior of sweet, sticky, slow-roasted char siu (barbecued pork). The contrast between the soft, slightly sweet bun and the rich, savory filling is pure magic.
4. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)
While technically from Shanghai, these “soup-filled baskets” have become a beloved dim sum favorite. Be careful! The delicate pleated wrapper holds a treasure of seasoned pork and, most importantly, a burst of rich, scalding-hot soup.
Qianxi Pro Tip: To eat, gently lift the dumpling into your spoon, poke a small hole near the top to let the steam escape, slurp the delicious broth, and then enjoy the dumpling.
5. Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls)
These are a textural delight. Silky, slippery-smooth sheets of rice noodles are rolled (often around shrimp, beef, or char siu) and then steamed to perfection. Just before serving, we dress them with a special sweet, seasoned soy sauce. It’s simple, elegant, and incredibly satisfying.
6. Lo Bak Go (Pan-Fried Turnip Cake)
Don’t let the name “cake” fool you—this is a savory treat. We make ours with shredded daikon radish and bits of savory Chinese sausage and dried shrimp. It’s first steamed, then cut into blocks and pan-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and tender on the inside. Dip it in a little oyster sauce for the full experience.
7. Fung Jao (Braised “Phoenix Claws”)
For the more adventurous diner, fung jao (or braised chicken feet) are a true test of authenticity. They are first deep-fried, then braised in a rich, savory black bean sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone tender and gelatinous. It’s a complex, flavorful dish that is deeply traditional.
8. Haam Sui Gok (Fried Glutinous Rice Dumplings)
A fantastic contrast of textures. These crescent-shaped dumplings feature a shell made from glutinous rice, which is sweet, chewy, and slightly crispy from frying. Inside, you’ll find a savory filling of minced pork and mushrooms. Sweet and savory, crispy and chewy—all in one bite.
9. Lai Wong Bao (Steamed Custard Buns)
Time for something sweet! These are similar to the char siu bao but are filled with a sweet, creamy, golden egg custard. Be warned: the filling is often molten-hot and absolutely delicious. They are the perfect way to start winding down your meal.
10. Dan Tat (Egg Tarts)
The perfect finale. Our dan tat feature a flaky, buttery pastry shell filled with a bright, wobbly, sweet egg custard that is baked until just set. Served warm from the oven, they are a light, sweet, and comforting end to your dim sum feast.
Come “Touch Your Heart” at Qianxi
This list is just the beginning. The true joy of dim sum is in the discovery—in ordering one more dish, in pouring tea for your companions, and in sharing a table filled with small plates and big flavors.
We invite you to gather your friends and family for a traditional yum cha experience. Our dim sum is served daily from 10 AM to 3 PM. We can’t wait to see you!
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