Sipping tea and savouring dim sum at yum cha restaurants are a cherished daily ritual for many Cantonese people. In fact, “let’s go yum cha when you’re free” is Cantonese slang and a common way for people to bid farewell to each other.
Today’s Cantonese yum cha restaurants have evolved from traditional tea stalls and tea houses, where food and drinks were served in the “one pot, two items” format (a pot of tea with two styles of dim sum) and became a popular way for the working class to enjoy quick and affordable meals. What once served merely to curb hunger has since transformed into a respected culinary art, crafted by skilled masters who have perfected their techniques. Dim sum has no doubt secured itself as an important element of Chinese cuisine.
The yum cha culture is a rich and enduring one: diners can enjoy refined and diverse styles of dim sum that delight both the eyes and the palate. From nostalgic classics to innovative creations, our MICHELIN inspectors have carefully selected their favourite dim sum establishments, and those who delight in exquisite yum cha experiences would not want to miss out on these culinary gems.
Further Reading: 9 Hong Kong Delicacies that You Shouldn't Miss
