Walking into a dim sum restaurant for the first time can feel overwhelming with dozens of unfamiliar dishes rolling by on carts. At Prestige Catering in Flushing, Queens, we serve over 40 varieties of authentic Cantonese dim sum, made fresh every morning by our experienced chefs. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned dim sum enthusiast, this guide will help you navigate our menu and discover the must-try classics at the best dim sum in Flushing.
What is Dim Sum? A Brief Introduction
Dim sum (點心) literally means “touch the heart” in Cantonese. This traditional dining style originated in southern China and has become a beloved brunch tradition. At Prestige Catering NYC, we honor authentic Cantonese preparation methods while serving dim sum near me to the vibrant Flushing community.
Dim sum is more than just dumplings—it’s a social experience meant to be shared with family and friends over tea. Our Cantonese restaurant offers both traditional cart service and order sheets, ensuring you can enjoy this cultural experience your way.
Steamed Dumplings: The Must-Try Classics
Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)
Har gow is considered the gold standard of dim sum craftsmanship. These delicate dumplings feature translucent wrappers that reveal plump, fresh shrimp inside. At Prestige Catering, our chefs hand-fold each har gow to achieve the traditional 7-10 pleats.
The wrapper should be thin enough to see through but strong enough to hold the juicy shrimp filling. When you’re searching for authentic dim sum in Flushing, perfectly executed har gow is a telltale sign of quality.
Shumai (Pork and Shrimp Dumplings)
Shumai features an open-topped design showcasing the pork and shrimp filling, often garnished with fish roe or a green pea. These dumplings have a slightly firmer texture than har gow and offer a savory, umami-rich flavor.
At our Cantonese restaurant, we prepare shumai using premium pork and fresh shrimp from our seafood restaurant suppliers, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)
Xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings, are a dim sum favorite that requires special eating technique. These delicate dumplings contain hot soup inside along with seasoned pork filling.
How to eat xiaolongbao without burning yourself:
Carefully pick up the dumpling by the top knot
Place it on your spoon
Gently bite a small opening to release steam
Sip the hot soup
Enjoy the remaining dumpling
Our xiaolongbao at Prestige Catering features paper-thin wrappers and rich, flavorful broth that’s worth the careful approach.
Crystal Dumplings (Vegetarian Options)
For vegetarian diners, crystal dumplings offer a delicious alternative. These translucent dumplings typically contain vegetables like chives, mushrooms, or bamboo shoots. The slightly chewy wrapper provides textural contrast to the tender vegetable filling.
Baked and Fried Favorites at Our Dim Sum Restaurant
Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)
Char siu bao comes in two varieties at Prestige Catering NYC: steamed (with fluffy white exterior) or baked (with golden, slightly sweet crust). Both versions feature sweet and savory BBQ pork filling.
The baked version has become increasingly popular for its cookie-like topping and tender interior. When searching for the best dim sum near me, char siu bao is often a customer favorite that showcases a restaurant’s barbecue skills.
Spring Rolls
Crispy spring rolls provide a satisfying crunch to balance steamed dishes. Our spring rolls feature a crispy golden exterior with savory vegetable and sometimes meat filling. They’re served hot and pair perfectly with sweet and sour sauce or hot mustard.
Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)
Turnip cake is a savory dim sum staple made from shredded radish, rice flour, and often Chinese sausage or dried shrimp. At Prestige Catering, we pan-fry each slice to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, flavorful interior.
This dish is especially popular during breakfast and brunch service at our Cantonese restaurant in Flushing.
Egg Tarts
No dim sum meal is complete without egg tarts for dessert. These sweet pastries feature flaky crust filled with smooth, custard filling. The balance of buttery pastry and silky egg custard makes this the perfect ending to your dim sum experience.
Rice and Noodle Dishes
Cheung Fun (Rice Noodle Rolls)
Cheung fun consists of silky rice noodle sheets rolled around various fillings—shrimp, BBQ pork, beef, or vegetables. The rolls are steamed until tender and served with sweet soy sauce.
The texture should be smooth and slippery, with the noodle delicate enough to cut with chopsticks. This is a signature dish at any authentic dim sum in Flushing restaurant.
Sticky Rice in Lotus Leaf (Lo Mai Gai)
Glutinous rice is steamed with chicken, Chinese sausage, mushrooms, and sometimes salted egg yolk, all wrapped in fragrant lotus leaf. The lotus leaf imparts a subtle herbal aroma to the rice.
This hearty dish is filling and flavorful—perfect for those with bigger appetites visiting our seafood restaurant for dim sum service.
Congee (Rice Porridge)
Congee is a comforting rice porridge that serves as a perfect base for various toppings. At Prestige Catering, we offer congee with preserved egg and pork, seafood, or plain with condiments on the side.
This warming dish is especially popular during cooler months and provides a soothing contrast to richer dim sum items.
How Dim Sum Service Works at Prestige Catering
Cart Service vs. Order Sheet
Traditional dim sum restaurants use rolling carts where servers present dishes for you to select. Prestige Catering NYC offers both cart service for the authentic experience and order sheets for those who prefer to plan their meal.
Cart service adds excitement and spontaneity—you can see exactly what you’re ordering. Order sheets provide more control and ensure you don’t miss your favorite dishes.
Tea Selection and Etiquette
Tea is an essential part of the dim sum experience. Popular choices include:
Pu-erh – earthy, aids digestion
Chrysanthemum – floral, refreshing
Jasmine – fragrant, light
Oolong – balanced, slightly sweet
Tea etiquette tip: When someone refills your tea, tap two fingers on the table as a silent “thank you.” This gesture originated from a legend about a Qing Dynasty emperor.
Best Time to Visit for Dim Sum in Flushing
Dim sum is traditionally a morning and early afternoon meal. At Prestige Catering, our dim sum service runs during brunch hours when our chefs prepare everything fresh.
Arriving earlier in service ensures the widest selection and hottest, freshest dishes. Weekends are busiest, so expect a lively, energetic atmosphere—part of the authentic dim sum near me experience.
Dim Sum Dining Tips from Our Cantonese Restaurant
Order Variety and Share with Your Table
Dim sum is meant for sharing. Order a variety of steamed, fried, and baked items to experience different flavors and textures. A good rule of thumb is 3-4 dishes per person, but pace yourself—you can always order more.
Start with Steamed, Then Move to Fried
Begin your meal with lighter steamed dumplings like har gow and shumai. These delicate flavors are best appreciated when your palate is fresh. Save heavier fried items and rice dishes for later in the meal.
Pace Yourself—Dishes Come Continuously
In cart service, new dishes arrive constantly. Don’t feel pressured to order everything at once. Take your time, enjoy conversation, and flag down carts as you’re ready for more.
This leisurely pace is what makes dim sum at Prestige Catering such a special social experience.
Tea Refill Signals
When your teapot needs refilling, leave the lid open or tilted. This signals servers that you need more hot water. This small gesture keeps service flowing smoothly during busy dim sum service.
Why Prestige Catering Serves the Best Dim Sum in Flushing
At Prestige Catering, our commitment to authentic Cantonese cuisine sets us apart. Our dim sum chefs have decades of experience and prepare over 40 varieties fresh every morning. From delicate har gow to crispy spring rolls, every dish reflects traditional techniques and premium ingredients.
As a full-service Cantonese restaurant and seafood restaurant near me, we source the freshest seafood and highest quality ingredients. Our Flushing location makes us easily accessible for anyone searching for exceptional dim sum near me.
Whether you’re new to dim sum or a longtime fan, our welcoming atmosphere and authentic flavors create an experience that touches the heart—the true meaning of dim sum.
Visit Prestige Catering for Fresh Dim Sum Daily
Dim sum is more than a meal—it’s a social experience best enjoyed with family and friends. At Prestige Catering in Flushing, Queens, our authentic Cantonese dim sum brings traditional flavors and warm hospitality together.
Join us for dim sum service and discover why we’re known as one of the best dim sum in Flushing destinations. Morning service starts early, and no reservation is needed for dim sum service. Bring your family, bring your appetite, and let us introduce you to the wonderful world of authentic Cantonese dim sum.
Visit Prestige Catering NYC today—your new favorite dim sum near me is waiting in Flushing, Queens!
