Discover Traditional Chinese Dim Sum in Chicago: Top Restaurants to Try

What is Dim Sum?

Dim sum is a traditional Cantonese style of cuisine, typically served as a variety of bite-sized dishes, often enjoyed during breakfast or brunch. Dim sum translates to "touch the heart," reflecting the small but flavorful offerings that are meant to satisfy the soul.

Served in steamer baskets or on small plates, dim sum includes a wide range of dishes such as dumplings, buns, rolls, and pastries, often paired with tea. It's the perfect way to enjoy a variety of flavors in one sitting, with each dish offering a unique taste and texture.

The History of Dim Sum

Dim sum has deep roots in Chinese history. It originated in the southern regions of China, particularly in Guangdong and Hong Kong, where it became a popular tradition for families to gather and enjoy a meal of small dishes accompanied by tea.

Originally, dim sum was a snack served at teahouses, designed to accompany the tea-drinking experience. Over time, it evolved into a complete meal, with many different types of dishes added to the menu. Dim sum is now enjoyed around the world and has become a symbol of Chinese culinary culture.

Best Traditional Chinese Dim Sum Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago has a rich and diverse food scene, and its dim sum offerings are no exception. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned dim sum lover, these top restaurants will satisfy your craving for authentic flavors.

1. MingHin Cuisine

MingHin Cuisine is one of the most popular spots for dim sum in Chicago. Known for its extensive menu and authentic flavors, MingHin offers a wide variety of dim sum dishes that are served fresh and hot. From shrimp dumplings (har gow) to char siu buns, MingHin delivers a top-tier dim sum experience.

2. Triple Crown Restaurant

Located in the Chinatown area, Triple Crown is a local favorite for traditional Chinese dim sum. Known for its bustling atmosphere and quality dishes, Triple Crown serves a great selection of steamed and fried dim sum. The shrimp spring rolls and pork buns are particularly noteworthy.

3. Joy Yee Noodle

While Joy Yee is best known for its noodle dishes, their dim sum menu is not to be overlooked. This vibrant restaurant offers delicious dim sum options in a casual, modern setting. Their pork dumplings and scallion pancakes are popular choices among diners.

4. Phoenix Restaurant

Another Chinatown gem, Phoenix Restaurant has been a staple of the Chicago dim sum scene for years. Phoenix offers a wide range of classic dim sum items, including the famous shrimp dumplings and baked barbecue pork buns. The restaurant’s friendly service and authentic atmosphere make it a great place for dim sum lovers.

5. The Original Pancake House (Chinatown location)

Though the name may sound surprising, The Original Pancake House in Chinatown offers a hidden gem for dim sum enthusiasts. Known for its delicious and affordable dim sum, this spot is a great option for both casual diners and those looking for a hearty meal in a comfortable setting.

Must-Try Dim Sum Dishes

Dim sum is all about variety, and the range of dishes you can try is endless. Here are some of the most popular dim sum dishes you should not miss when visiting a dim sum restaurant in Chicago:

1. Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)

Har gow is a classic dim sum dish that features tender shrimp wrapped in a thin, translucent dough. These dumplings are often steamed and served piping hot, with the shrimp's delicate sweetness shining through.

2. Siu Mai (Pork Dumplings)

Siu mai is a steamed dumpling made with ground pork and shrimp, often topped with a small piece of crab roe. These dumplings are a must-try for their savory and juicy filling.

3. Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)

These soft, fluffy buns are filled with a sweet and savory barbecue pork filling. Char siu bao is a beloved dim sum dish that's perfect for those who enjoy a mix of savory and slightly sweet flavors.

4. Cheung Fun (Steamed Rice Rolls)

Cheung fun consists of delicate rice noodles wrapped around fillings such as shrimp, pork, or beef. These rolls are usually served with soy sauce and offer a soft, satisfying bite.

5. Egg Tarts

For dessert, egg tarts are a must-try! These flaky pastries are filled with a smooth, sweet egg custard. Their combination of a buttery crust and rich custard filling makes them the perfect end to any dim sum meal.

Dim Sum Restaurant Tips in Chicago

When enjoying dim sum in Chicago, here are some tips to enhance your experience:

1. Arrive Early

Dim sum is often served in the morning or early afternoon, and many restaurants tend to get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early ensures you’ll get the freshest, most varied selection of dishes.

2. Share the Experience

Dim sum is all about sharing with others, so don’t be afraid to order several dishes to try with your table. The variety is the essence of dim sum, so be adventurous and try something new!

3. Ask for Recommendations

If you're not sure where to start, ask the staff for recommendations. Many dim sum restaurants offer a combination of classic and regional specialties, so don’t hesitate to ask for their top picks.

4. Enjoy the Tea

Dim sum is traditionally enjoyed with tea. Many restaurants will offer a selection of teas, from jasmine to oolong, which pair beautifully with the various flavors of dim sum. Take your time and savor both the food and the tea.