Phê Vé
April 23, 2026 • 3 min read
Explore the traditional Chinese dish of dim sum and learn how to order it in Singapore. Discover popular dim sum varieties and useful tips for Vietnamese travelers.
Dim Sum: Origins and Significance
When it comes to the origins of dim sum, many people might think it hails from Hong Kong. However, dim sum actually originated in Guangzhou (Canton) during the 10th century, when trade and commerce were booming. Between 10 AM and 2 PM, people would gather at tea houses to enjoy 'yum cha'—a light meal paired with tea, which can be seen as an early form of modern brunch. The small dishes served alongside tea are known as dim sum or dian xin (点心), meaning 'touching the heart.'
In my memory, dim sum was limited to just four items: bao buns, siew mai, char siew bao, and har gow. This perception changed dramatically when my parents took me to a Chinese restaurant, where a cart brimming with steamed and fried delicacies was wheeled from table to table.
Popular Types of Dim Sum
There are numerous types of dim sum, each with its own distinct preparation and flavors.
1. Steamed Dim Sum
Steamed dim sum tends to be lighter and less oily. They are typically placed in bamboo baskets and cooked in a steamer. A classic example is har gow—translucent dumplings filled with shrimp, featuring a thin, elastic wrapper. Another favorite is siew mai, which is a pork and shrimp dumpling often garnished with salmon roe or goji berries.
2. Fried Dim Sum
Fried dim sum is a crowd pleaser. You can find varieties such as spring rolls filled with radish and carrot, or fried dumplings stuffed with pork and shrimp. Another popular dish is the fried radish cake, often made from large cakes that are crispy on the outside.
✈️ Tìm chuyến bay giá tốt
Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
3. Baked Dim Sum
No dim sum experience is complete without egg tarts. There are two popular versions: Hong Kong and Portuguese. The Hong Kong egg tart has a lighter flavor, while the Portuguese version features a sweet, crispy custard layer.
4. Sweet Dim Sum
Sweet treats like red bean buns and molten egg custard buns (liu sha bao) are highly cherished. Sesame balls are also a common dessert, with a chewy exterior and sweet filling inside.
How to Order Dim Sum in Singapore
In Singapore, there are various ways to order dim sum. Some traditional restaurants still use carts to serve dishes, allowing diners to choose directly. Others provide paper menus, where you simply mark your selections and quantities to hand to the waiter.
Nowadays, many modern restaurants have adopted QR code ordering, enabling diners to browse and place orders via their smartphones or tablets. This not only saves time but also adds convenience for guests.
Useful Tips for Vietnamese Travelers
Vietnamese visitors to Singapore can refer to these ordering techniques for a richer culinary experience. To enter Singapore, a tourist visa is required if your stay exceeds 30 days. Dim sum prices in Singapore range from 50,000 to 200,000 VND per dish, depending on the type and location. The ideal time to visit Singapore is from February to April, when the weather is cooler and perfect for exploring street food.
If you're a dim sum enthusiast, Singapore is a must-visit destination. Here, you can experience the diversity of dim sum styles and flavors, from steamed, fried, baked to sweet. Try each variety and discover your favorites!
Article adapted and edited from: Seth Lui Food
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