Last updated: January 2024
Do you crave for a taste of Singapore's most affordable dim sum? Dim sum is a gastronomic experience unlike any other, with exquisite buns and delicious dumplings.
But which ingredients are used to make dim sum? And what makes it so unique?
Come along as we delve into the world of dim sum, learning about the ingredients, its health advantages, and even its role in the morning routine.
Learn how to eat dim sum properly and what to look for while selecting the ideal restaurant to enjoy this popular dish.
Prepare yourself for a savory tour into Singapore's dim sum culture!
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What is dim sum made of?
Like in many other parts of the world, Singapore's version of dim sum comprises a variety of small plates or bamboo steamer baskets that are customarily used to serve the meals.
Dim sum is a common option for breakfast, brunch, or lunch in Singapore since these meals can contain a broad variety of ingredients and flavors.
Singaporean dim sum frequently features the following ingredients and dishes:
- Steamed Dumplings: Dim sum frequently includes a variety of dumplings, such as chive dumplings, har gow (shrimp dumplings), and siu mai (pork and shrimp dumplings).
- Buns: Popular options include steamed buns filled with various foods including custard, red bean paste, or char siu (barbecued pork).
- Rice Rolls: In addition to being served with a flavorful sauce, rice noodle rolls sometimes contain fillings like shrimp, meat, or vegetables.
- Spring Rolls: Spring rolls are deep-fried to a crisp texture and then filled with veggies, shrimp, or pork.
- Deep-Fried Items: Also common in dim sum dishes are a variety of deep-fried foods such as sesame balls, taro puffs, and crispy squid.
- Congee: A rice dish that can be eaten simple or topped with seafood, pork, or century eggs.
- Steamed Vegetables: Gai lan (Chinese broccoli) with oyster sauce and other simple steamed vegetable dishes could be served as part of the dim sum buffet.
- Chicken Feet: A unique and tasty dim sum meal that is frequently made with black bean sauce.
- Turnip Cake: Another well-liked dim sum food is the pan-fried turnip cake, which is made with rice flour and shredded radish.
- Desserts: Red bean pancakes, mango pudding, and egg tarts are a few sweet dim sum alternatives.
Singapore is well recognized for its diversified culinary scene, and the city's dim sum offerings frequently reflect this diversity with a variety of both classic and modern dim sum pieces.
Why is dim sum so special?
For both locals and tourists to Singapore, dim sum has a particular place in their hearts and mouths. This well-liked food is distinctive and sticks out for a number of reasons.
The vast selection of bite-sized foods, in the first place, enables guests to sample a diversity of tastes and textures in a single meal. Every dim sum meal, from crunchy spring rolls to steaming dumplings, delivers a delicious surprise.
Additionally, the preparation of dim sum follows centuries-old Cantonese cooking traditions. These little snacks are exquisitely made with exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The level of accuracy and skill displayed by dim sum cooks are difficult to find elsewhere, whether it be in the deft pleating of dumplings or the exact folding of a steamed bun.
Dim sum is also a social experience, not just a meal. With dishes of delectable dim sum on the table, friends and family may interact while dining communally.
Dim sum is more than simply a meal in Singapore—from its mouthwatering tastes to its cultural significance—it is a symbol of the complexity and diversity of the culinary globe.
So make sure to indulge in this exceptional eating experience the next time you find yourself in Singapore.
Why Look for Cheap Dim Sum in Singapore
A worthwhile pastime when visiting Singapore is looking for inexpensive dim lunch. A cheap way to have delicious dim sum is in Singapore.
You may experience a range of cuisines in one sitting thanks to these bite-sized morsels that give an explosion of flavors and sensations.
You may enjoy this well-liked food without having to worry about going over budget by looking for inexpensive dim sum.
The opportunity to try different dim sum eateries is another benefit of cheap dim sum in addition to being a cost-effective option.
Singapore is home to a large number of dim sum establishments, each with its own unique spin on the meal.
Make your picks at a price that will allow you to sample the cuisine at a variety of restaurants and decide which is your favorite dim sum place.
So don't pass up the opportunity to explore the intriguing world of dim sum in Singapore. When looking for the thriving dim sum market, look for selections that are reasonably priced and follow your palate's curiosities.
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Top 6 Affordable Dim Sum Places in Singapore that are Good
1. Xin Cuisine
Xin Cuisine - Cheapest Dim Sum Singapore
For those seeking authentic and delicious dim sum, Xin Cuisine, a prestigious restaurant located in the heart of Singapore, provides an exceptional eating experience.
The menu of Xin Cuisine offers a wide variety of dim sum that have been expertly prepared using only the best ingredients.
With tastes that are exquisitely balanced and aesthetically spectacular presentations, each dish is a monument to the chefs' culinary skill.
Every taste, from the delicate har gow with its transparent shell and juicy prawn inside to the fragrant steamed pork buns, is a monument to the expertise and creativity of the kitchen.
What customers say…
“This hidden gem has been around for a long time, and is my go to place for great chinese / cantonese food. The dishes here are masterfully prepared and delicious, and some specialty includes things like the duck tea leaves. The dim sum here is also very good. Staff was vefficient and attentive, and friendly too.” - Jiak Papa
Address: 317 Outram Rd, Singapore 169075
Contact: +65 3138 2531
2. Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant
Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant - Cheapest Dim Sum Singapore
A large selection of both classic and modern dim sum meals are available at Swee Choon.
This comprises baked, fried, and steamed foods including buns, spring rolls, and desserts.
They often offer classic dim sum dishes like har gow (shrimp dumplings) and char siu bao (barbecue pig buns) as well as more modern dishes.
Swee Choon's affordability is one of its most notable qualities. Families and parties wishing to enjoy dim sum without breaking the bank frequently choose this location since the food is fairly priced.
Swee Choon is well known for serving food till the early hours of the morning, making it a popular place to have dinner.
It serves people seeking a late-night fix of dim sum and stays open until the wee hours of the morning.
With friends or family, it's a great spot for a casual meal. Just take note that there may be a wait for a table because of peak traffic times.
What customers say…
“Swee Choon Tim Sum Restaurant has been a traditional handmade Dim Sum restaurant since 1962. My family of 4 went down for lunch. We ordered several Dim Sum from their menu. Generally, the taste and quality of their food are good - fresh and decent portion sizes. The price is reasonable too. The indoor sitting area is clean with aircon. They also have outdoor and black alley seating. Service is decent, and the food came pretty fast. Parking there can be quite challenging. You can only park by the street-side parking lots. We will surely go back again.” - Sherman Tan
Address: 183/185/187/189, Jln Besar, 191/193, Singapore 208882
Contact: +65 6225 7788
3. The Dim Sum Place
The Dim Sum Place - Cheapest Dim Sum Singapore
The Dim Sum Place is also famous for its wide variety of dim sum meals.
This includes a variety of additional dumplings, buns, and small meals in addition to classic favorites like har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns).
Being a halal-certified restaurant, The Dim Sum Place is well renowned for meeting the dietary restrictions of Muslims. This makes it a well-liked option for a wide variety of eaters.
Dim Sum Place also frequently has a trendy and contemporary atmosphere, making it appropriate for both special events and everyday trips. It could feature comfy seats and elegant design.
What customers say…
“Some of the best dim sum in SG! Really liked the prawn rice rolls and peking duck in particular. Though I felt like the ratio of custard to bun in the liu sha bao was off.” - Jaz Low
Address: 791 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 198759
Contact: +65 6655 8787
4. Tim Ho Wan
Tim Ho Wan - Cheapest Dim Sum Singapore
One of the world's most popular and reasonably priced Michelin-starred restaurants is none other than Tim Ho Wan.
The Michelin certification is proof of the restaurant's dedication to providing premium dim sum.
The famous baked BBQ pork buns (char siu bao), rice rolls with BBQ pork, steamed egg cake, and different dumplings are just a few of the must-try foods at Tim Ho Wan.
Typically, Tim Ho Wan provides a casual dining atmosphere. Families, groups of friends, and individuals wishing to savor delectable dim sum in a casual atmosphere may consider going there.
Despite having a Michelin star, Tim Ho Wan is popular with a variety of customers because of its affordable costs.
Tim Ho Wan may get fairly busy because of its popularity and accessibility, especially at prime mealtimes. It is best to be there early or plan on waiting for a table.
What customers say…
“Had a pleasant dim sum at TimHoWan on New Year’s Eve because I am always craving for a good dim sum. All I can say was that the restaurant’s food standards has always been up there. And do check it out their special menu, it turns out to be really delicious as well. I can’t get over with how good the service was. Because even though New Year’s Eve was packed everywhere, especially in MBS. I was still surprised that the queue and service was faster than I thought it would be. Only took 30mins to queue and around 15-20 mins for 8 dishes to serve. I was impressed with the standard of the service, it definitely did not drop on such a chaotic day. Keep It Up!” - Lynn Tay
Address: Various Locations
Contact: +65 6688 7600
5. 89.7 Supper Club
89.7 Supper Club - Cheapest Dim Sum Singapore
The exquisite Chinese cuisine served at this upmarket restaurant elevates the concept of dim sum to new heights.
The best part of any meal at 89.7 Supper Club is their famous truffle xiao long bao, a delicately cooked dumpling filled with a flavorful soup laced with truffles.
This dish is a real work of art with its tasty contents and delicately folded dumpling wrapper.
The golden prawn fritters, which are perfectly cooked to produce a light and crunchy texture and let the delicious prawns show through, are another standout.
Each aspect of the dining experience is carefully crafted to create a lasting impression on visitors, from the exquisite culinary offerings to the great service and stylish environment.
What customers say…
“Food was so good! Our dimsum choices were the best! We had the steamed rice roll w shrimp, fried thai beancurd and mushroom siew mai! Its been awhile since Ive had good halal dimsum!” - shima mazlan
Address: Changi Village Rd, 5, Singapore 500005
Contact: +65 6214 1897
6. Hua Ji Bao Dang
Hua Ji Bao Dang - Cheapest Dim Sum Singapore
The Hua Ji Bao Dang menu provides proof of the great workmanship of dim sum. Each meal is painstakingly crafted with the highest attention to detail, ranging from delicate shrimp dumplings to delicious pork buns.
The exquisite folds of the dumpling skins and the wonderfully balanced tastes that erupt with each mouthful are proof of the chef's skill.
The restaurant's famous har gow, a traditional meal that highlights the quality of the ingredients used, is one of the restaurant's outstanding dishes.
A little sense of sweetness complements the plump, juicy shrimp that are enclosed in the transparent dumpling skin.
Silky smooth on the outside and pleasantly delicate within, the texture is absolutely divine.
The BBQ pork bun, or char siu bao, is another must-try dish on the menu. A big portion of melt-in-your-mouth, delicately sweet and flavorful char siu filling is placed within a fluffy, steamed bun.
If you take into consideration the exceptional quality and artistry of the dim sum dishes, Hua Ji Bao Dang also provides a fairly priced eating experience.
So indulging in a delicious lunch without going over budget is therefore definitely possible for diners here in Hua Ji Bao Dang.
What customers say…
“Must try their lor mai gai, fan choy, big bao and the special siu mai with a quail egg. There are 3 dim sum and bao stalls within walking distance but this is the only one we frequent. So glad to see delivery is now available and friends all around the island can eat this yummy food too.” - Diana Har
Address: 115 Bukit Merah View, Singapore 151115
Contact: +65 9675 1628
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Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dim Sum Place
There are various things to think about while selecting a dim sum restaurant in Singapore that will guarantee you the greatest possible dining experience.
Authentic and High Quality Cuisine
Find restaurants that are known for employing high-quality products and time-honored cooking methods to prepare their food.
This will guarantee that you experience Singapore's authentic dim sum tastes.
Variety of Dishes Offered
To provide you the opportunity to try various flavors and textures, a good dim sum restaurant should offer a broad variety of selections, from steamed dumplings to crunchy spring rolls.
Ambiance and Atmosphere of the Restaurant
Further consideration should be given to the restaurant's ambience and environment.
The whole dining experience is enhanced by dim sum restaurants that provide a lively, busy ambiance.
Cost
Although it might be tempting to always choose the cheapest dim sum, it's crucial to balance cost and quality.
Find a restaurant with fair costs for the kind of cuisine they provide and a solid reputation for serving sized portions.
What is the proper way to eat dim sum?
Knowing how to eat dim sum properly is crucial for getting the most out of the pleasurable experience of eating it in Singapore.
So here are some suggestions to make your experience eating dim sum better:
- Enjoy each dish's scent first. The alluring aromas that emanate from each plate are an important component of dim sum in addition to the flavor. Consider the flavorful fusion of components for a minute.
- Pick up the dim sum next with chopsticks or a little serving spoon. To truly appreciate the flavors and textures of each bite-sized creation, take tiny pieces. This enables you to appreciate the careful balancing of flavors in each mouthful.
- Try out new condiments that are on the table without hesitation. These condiments, including soy sauce, chili sauce, or vinegar, can improve the flavor of dim sum. To give your bite-sized treats an extra taste boost, dip them in the sauces.
- Finally, dim sum is better to be eaten with others. You may all experience different foods by splitting the plates with your dinner buddies. The total enjoyment of dim sum is enhanced by this communal dining setting.
Are dim sum healthy?
When eaten in moderation, dim sum is not only tasty but may also be a healthy option.
In comparison to deep-fried foods, a variety of steamed and boiled choices, such as dumplings and buns, often have fewer calories and fat.
These tastier, more nutritious dim sum options are a terrific supplement to a diet that focuses on a variety of foods.
Furthermore, dim sum frequently contains nutritious ingredients including veggies, lean meats, and seafood.
Steamed foods offer a nutrient-dense meal experience because they preserve the natural tastes and nutrients of the ingredients.
Although there are some fried and high-sodium alternatives in dim sum, it's crucial to keep in mind that allowing yourself to occasionally indulge in these foods is part of living a balanced lifestyle.
You may have a filling dinner that is tasty and healthy by exercising conscious decision-making and choosing from a selection of dim sum meals.
What is the biggest dim sum in the world?
Look no further than Singapore if you're searching for the largest dim sum in the world!
The dim sum scene in this lively city is one of its many gastronomic highlights. Despite the fact that there may not be a particular record for the biggest dim sum, Singapore's dim sum eateries give you an excellent selection of extraordinarily gigantic concoctions that will leave you in amazement.
Singaporean dim sum chefs take pleasure in pushing the limits of originality and scale, creating huge steamed buns and dumplings, among other dishes.
The flavor of these enormous treats is as mouth watering as they are physically spectacular. Imagine biting on a massive, fluffy char siu bao or savoring a huge har gow.
Whether you enjoy classic dim sum or are eager to try something new, you shouldn't pass up the opportunity to taste Singapore's largest dim sum.
So grab a pair of chopsticks and get ready to experience dim sum in all its splendor!
Is dim sum Chinese or Japanese?
Guangdong province is where the classic Chinese dish known as dim sum first appeared.
Dim sum is undoubtedly Chinese in origin, even if it has gained popularity in many countries throughout the world, including Japan.
It is a long-standing culinary heritage with distinctive tastes, preparation methods, and cultural importance.
Both residents and visitors to Singapore have a unique affection for dim sum. Singapore, a city-state known for its diversified culinary scene and rich history, provides a vast selection of dim sum dishes that highlight the true tastes and artistic craftsmanship of this Chinese delicacy.
Dim sum in Singapore is a monument to its Chinese heritage, whether you enjoy savory buns, crunchy spring rolls, or steaming dumplings.
So, if you're in Singapore and want a genuine dim sum experience, you can be sure that you'll be savoring home-cooked Chinese food that has been expertly prepared.
Your taste senses will be taken on a gastronomic tour of the colorful streets of Guangdong with Singapore's dim sum.
Is dim sum eaten in the morning?
In Singapore, dim sum is often eaten during breakfast or brunch. This culinary delight offers a wide selection of bite-sized treats that are both filling and savory, making it the ideal way to start your day.
The best time to enjoy dim sum is in the morning because you can taste how genuine and fresh the food is.
Dim sum is a morning meal in Singapore that has steamed dumplings, fluffy buns, and flavorful meats or veggies that will leave you wanting more.
The early hours are often busy at Singapore's bustling dim sum establishments, resulting in a lively and upbeat ambiance.
So, if you're seeking a unique and mouthwatering breakfast experience, visit a dim sum restaurant in Singapore and start your taste buds out on an exciting culinary experience.
Cheapest Dim Sum in Singapore
It's not just about saving money while looking for the cheapest dim sum in Singapore; it's also about getting a taste of this known cuisine's authentic flavor.
Due to versatility and superb tastes, dim sum, which consists of a variety of small meals, is particularly beloved in Singapore.
Numerous aspects, including quality, variety, and atmosphere, must be taken into account while searching for inexpensive dim sum selections.
When choosing steamed or grilled items, dim sum may still be eaten in a healthy way despite its low cost.
It doesn't matter if you want to eat dim sum in the morning or at any other time of the day; it is unquestionably a Chinese culinary treasure that should be enjoyed.
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