Nothing quite compliments cold, rainy weather than a plate of hot dim sum, especially in a city like Vancouver. There are so many authentic, tasty spots to choose from, so the only challenge you’ll have is choosing which place to go. While this list is by no means a complete guide, consider this a jumping-off point for finding some of the best dumplings in the city.
Without further ado, here are 11 mouthwatering dim sum spots to check out in Vancouver.
Dynasty Seafood Restaurant
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The winner of Vancouver Magazine’s Best Chinese in 2018, Dynasty is a lot more than a dim sum spot. However, we’re only focused on dim sum for this guide, and luckily they’ve got a fantastic selection. Everything is menu based, so don’t be expecting that you’ll be able to grab what you want off those carts that are pushed around other spots.
Where: 108-777 West Broadway
Western Lake
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One of the spots in the city that prides itself on dim sum, Western Lake is definitely the place to go when all you want to do is gorge yourself on Siu Mai. Just fill out what you want on the page provided, sit back, and prepare yourself for a solid hour of dim sum delights.
Where: 4989 Victoria Drive
Peaceful Restaurant
We think that the xiao long bai from Peaceful alone gets them on this list. They are some of the best in the city, and if you haven’t tried them yet then you are doing yourself a disservice.
Where: Multiple Locations
Sun Sui Wah
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Sun Sui Wah has been an institution in Mount Pleasant for years. Somewhat touristy, but delicious nonetheless. Similar to Dynasty in that the dim sum is more of a compliment to the full menu, but have no shame if that’s all you went in for. Word to the wise, don’t be bummed if the service isn’t fantastic, people drop hundreds of dollars on meals at these places, and your $30 dollar tab isn’t the staff’s highest concern.
Where: 3888 Main Street
Kirin Restaurant
With some of the best service in the city, Kirin is a great spot for when you want to introduce your, uh, not as cultured friends to the wide world of dim sum. For the location off Robson Street, your best bet is to make a reservation like a week in advance, so you don’t have to worry about waiting and can fast the day before.
Where: 1172 Alberni Street
Kam Wai
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Included in our cheap eats guide as well, Kam Wai is by far the most frugal option on this list. The hole-in-the-wall spot in Chinatown is the no-frills dim sum heaven you need when you’ve only got 30 minutes for lunch or want a quick snack. We might add that it is ironically one of the highest rated on this list on Google. A straightforward approach pays off.
Where: 249 E Pender Street
Dinesty Dumpling House
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Sorry to the other restaurants on this list, but if we absolutely had to choose just one spot for dim sum in Vancouver it would be Dinesty. Great selection, multiple locations, and a very reasonable price point mean that Dinesty is here to stay.
Where: Multiple Locations
Chef Tony
Chef Tony is so tasty that we’re throwing it in this guide even though it’s in Richmond. One of the highest quality and most creative dim sum spots in Greater Vancouver, Chef Tony only opened in 2014 and is already a heavyweight in the heavily competitive scene.
Where: Empire Centre Mall, Richmond
Pink Pearl Chinese Restaurant
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A longtime favourite in East Vancouver, Pink Pearl offers a massive list of dim sum to try. So, whether you’re sticking with dumplings, or really exploring the menu, you’ve got tons to look forward to each visit. Heck, make it a monthly affair til you’ve tried everything!
Where: 1132 East Hastings Street
Blnd Tger Dumplings
A more recent addition to Vancouver’s dim sum scene, Blnd Tger offers ‘locally-sourced’ takeout style dumplings for you to try. What’s more, they’re focusing on interesting flavours, and even have some vegan options for you to enjoy. Worth checking out at least once, we think!
Where: 251 East Georgia Street
Little Bird Dim Sum + Craft Beer
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Finally, we come to Little Bird in Kitsilano, the perfect spot to grab some tasty dumplings and beers with friends on any occasion. And the fact that they’re Michelin-recognized certainly doesn’t hurt!
Where: 2958 West 4th Avenue
That’s our list Vancouver, hopefully, next time you go for dim sum you’ll be a little more confident in where you choose to go!
