As a food enthusiast and a New York City resident, I have enjoyed exploring this borough’s diverse culinary scene. One of the most popular cuisines in Queens is Chinese, and dim sum is a staple of this cuisine. Dim sum is a traditional Chinese meal consisting of small plates of savory and sweet dishes served with tea. It is a popular brunch option for many New Yorkers, and Queens has no shortage of excellent dim sum restaurants.
In this article, I will be sharing my top picks for the best dim sum restaurants in Queens, New York. I have scoured the borough for the most authentic and delicious dim sum offerings, and I am excited to share my findings with you. Whether you are a dim sum aficionado or a first-timer, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of dim sum in Queens!
1) Shanghai You Garden 上海豫园
I recently visited Shanghai You Garden in Flushing, Queens and was blown away by the authentic Shanghainese cuisine. The restaurant has a classy ambiance and the staff is friendly and attentive. What sets Shanghai You Garden apart from other dim sum restaurants is their handmade soup dumplings. Each dumpling is made to perfection with love and care, making them the best in NYC.
In addition to their famous soup dumplings, Shanghai You Garden offers a full selection of traditional and fusion Shanghainese dishes. Some of my favorites include Grandma’s Braised Pork, Sweet & Sour Ribs, and Shredded Sautéed Cabbage. They also serve breakfast and dim sum all day long, with a variety of options ranging from soy milk to wonton in chili oil with peanut sauce.
One of the highlights of my experience at Shanghai You Garden was trying their Peking Duck. It was succulent and full of umami flavor. The restaurant also offers a full bar with a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails to complement your meal.
Rating: 4.3 (2030 reviews)
Location: 135-33 40th Rd, Queens, NY 11354
Contact: (718) 886-2286
Website: Visit Website
2) Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings – Flushing
I recently visited Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings in Flushing and was blown away by the quality of their dim sum. The restaurant is a budget-friendly Shanghainese eatery that specializes in soup dumplings but also serves noodle soup and dim sum. The place was packed with people when I arrived, which is always a good sign.
The highlight of my meal was definitely the soup dumplings. Each dumpling was filled with a flavorful broth and tender meat, and the dough was perfectly cooked. I also tried the Shrimp and Pork Shao Mai, which were equally delicious. The dim sum dishes were served fresh and hot, and the portion sizes were generous.
Overall, I highly recommend Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings to anyone looking for a great dim sum experience in Queens. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and attentive service, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
Rating: 4.4 (4435 reviews)
Location: 39-16 Prince St #104, Queens, NY 11354
Contact: (718) 321-3838
Website: Visit Website
3) Shanghai Zhen Gong Fu
I recently visited Shanghai Zhen Gong Fu and was impressed by the quality of their dim sum. The restaurant offers a variety of Shanghainese and other Chinese specialties, including dumplings, lo mein, and more. The dishes were cooked to perfection and had a great balance of flavors.
The atmosphere of the restaurant is unpretentious and cozy, making it perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. The service was friendly and attentive, and the staff was knowledgeable about the menu. They were happy to make recommendations and answer any questions we had.
Overall, I highly recommend Shanghai Zhen Gong Fu for anyone looking for delicious dim sum in Queens.
Rating: 4.5 (390 reviews)
Location: 86-16 Queens Blvd, Queens, NY 11373
Contact: (718) 672-2200
Website: Visit Website
4) Lao Bei Fang Dumpling House
As soon as I walked into Lao Bei Fang Dumpling House, I was greeted by the savory aroma of Chinese cuisine. The compact restaurant was bustling with activity, and I could see why. The restaurant specializes in dumplings, soups, and noodle dishes, and each dish I tried was bursting with flavor. I especially enjoyed the steamed pork dumplings, which were juicy and tender.
The menu at Lao Bei Fang Dumpling House is extensive, with a variety of options to suit every taste. The staff was friendly and attentive, and my food arrived quickly. The restaurant is simple and unassuming, but the food is anything but. I can see why it’s a local favorite.
Rating: 4.4 (793 reviews)
Location: 83-05 Broadway, Elmhurst, NY 11373
Contact: (718) 639-3996
Website: No website available.
5) Asian Jewels
I recently visited Asian Jewels and was impressed with their selection of dim sum. The restaurant has a large, traditionally decorated space which was bustling with people. The atmosphere was lively and the staff were friendly and attentive.
One of the standout dishes for me was the shrimp and eggplant with creamy egg casserole. The combination of flavors was delicious and the dish was cooked to perfection. Another favorite of mine was the sliced conch with chopped scallion topping, which had a nice crunch and was seasoned just right.
Overall, I would definitely recommend Asian Jewels for anyone looking for a great dim sum experience in Queens. The variety of dishes, quality of food, and friendly service make it a must-visit spot.
Rating: 4.2 (2596 reviews)
Location: 133-30 39th Ave, Queens, NY 11354
Contact: (718) 359-8600
Website: Visit Website
6) Little Dumpling
I recently visited Little Dumpling, a Chinese restaurant located in Queens, New York, and I was impressed with the quality of their dim sum. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and the staff were friendly and helpful. The menu offers a wide range of traditional Shanghai and Taiwanese dishes, but their soup dumplings are the real standout. They were perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
One thing that stood out to me about Little Dumpling was the freshness of their ingredients. You can tell that they take pride in using high-quality ingredients in their dishes. Additionally, the prices are very reasonable for the quality of food you receive.
Overall, I highly recommend Little Dumpling for anyone looking for delicious dim sum in Queens. It’s a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends and family.
Rating: 4.3 (814 reviews)
Location: 252-20 Northern Blvd, Queens, NY 11362
Contact: (718) 225-1178
Website: https://nylittledumpling.com/
7) Nan Xiang Express – Forest Hills, NY
I recently visited Nan Xiang Express in Forest Hills, NY, and was blown away by the quality of their dim sum. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and the staff is friendly and attentive. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, from classic pork buns to more unique options like shrimp and chive dumplings.
One standout dish was the soup dumplings, which were bursting with flavor and had the perfect balance of broth and meat. The scallion pancakes were also a hit, with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy center.
Overall, Nan Xiang Express is a top contender for the best dim sum in Queens. The food is delicious, the service is excellent, and the prices are reasonable.
Rating: 4.5 (110 reviews)
Location: 10750 Queens Blvd, Queens, NY 11375
Contact: (718) 880-2188
Website: Visit Website
8) Beijing Dumpling House
I recently visited Beijing Dumpling House in Queens and was blown away by their delicious dumplings and quick-service Chinese cuisine. The no-frills setting and simple decor give it an authentic feel, and the menu is full of options that cater to all tastes.
One of the standout dishes for me was the Shrimp and Pork Wonton Soup, which had a flavorful broth and perfectly cooked wontons. The Chive and Pork Dumplings were also a hit, with a savory filling and a crispy exterior. And for those who prefer vegetarian options, the Fresh Vegetable Noodle Soup and Boiled Vegetable Dumplings were both excellent choices.
The service was efficient and friendly, and the prices were very reasonable for the quality of food. I highly recommend giving Beijing Dumpling House a try if you’re in the area.
Rating: 4.6 (694 reviews)
Location: 88-38 Sutphin Blvd, Queens, NY 11435
Contact: (718) 297-2935
Website: Visit Website
9) Secret Kitchen 粤精彩
As soon as I walked into Secret Kitchen, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The dim sum carts were constantly circulating, and the aroma of fresh, steaming dumplings filled the air. The restaurant was bustling with customers, yet the service was still prompt and attentive.
I started off with the classic shrimp dumplings, which were perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The pork buns were also a standout, with a fluffy and slightly sweet bun encasing savory pork filling. I also tried the turnip cake, which had a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior.
One thing that sets Secret Kitchen apart is their extensive menu. In addition to traditional dim sum dishes, they also offer a variety of other Cantonese dishes, such as roasted duck and stir-fried noodles.
Rating: 4.3 (87 reviews)
Location: 185-20 Horace Harding Expy, Queens, NY 11365
Contact: (718) 321-1221
Website: Visit Website
10) HUPO琥珀
As I walked into HUPO琥珀, I was greeted with a chic and modern atmosphere that immediately made me feel welcomed. The restaurant specializes in Szechuan cuisine and offers a wide range of dishes to choose from. However, what really stood out to me was their dim sum selection. The dumplings were freshly made and packed with flavor, and the steamed buns were soft and fluffy.
One of the standout dishes was the pepper beef, which was cooked to perfection and had just the right amount of spice. The cold noodles were also a hit, with a refreshing taste that complemented the other dishes. I appreciated that the portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable for the quality of food.
Rating: 4.5 (433 reviews)
Location: 10-07 50th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101
Contact: (718) 255-6722
Website: Visit Website
Overall, HUPO琥珀 is a great spot for dim sum lovers who are looking for a modern twist on traditional dishes. The atmosphere is inviting, the service is attentive, and the food is delicious. I highly recommend giving this restaurant a try.
History of Dim Sum
Dim sum is a traditional Chinese cuisine that originated in the southern part of China. The term “dim sum” means “touching the heart” or “a little bit of heart” in Cantonese. It is a style of Cantonese cuisine that involves small bite-sized portions of food served in small steamer baskets or on small plates.
The history of dim sum can be traced back to the teahouses of ancient China. These teahouses served tea and small snacks to travelers and locals. The popularity of these teahouses led to the development of dim sum as a cuisine in its own right.
Over the years, dim sum has evolved and spread beyond China to other parts of the world, including the United States. Today, dim sum is a popular cuisine in many Chinese restaurants around the world. It is often served as a brunch or lunch dish and is typically accompanied by tea.
Some of the most popular dim sum dishes include steamed dumplings, pork buns, shrimp dumplings, and rice noodle rolls. These dishes are often served with soy sauce, chili sauce, or other condiments.
In summary, dim sum has a rich history that dates back to ancient China. It has evolved over the years and is now a popular cuisine around the world. Its small bite-sized portions and variety of flavors make it a unique and enjoyable dining experience.
Traditional Dim Sum Dishes
As a dim sum enthusiast, I’ve tried dozens of different dishes at various restaurants throughout Queens, New York. Here are some of my favorite traditional dim sum dishes that I highly recommend trying:
Dumplings
Dumplings are a staple of dim sum and come in a variety of shapes and fillings. One of my favorites is the pork and shrimp dumpling, which is savory and juicy with a thin, delicate wrapper. Another popular dumpling is the soup dumpling, also known as xiao long bao. These dumplings are filled with a rich broth and meat filling and are best enjoyed by carefully biting off the top and sipping the soup before eating the rest of the dumpling.
Buns
Buns are another classic dim sum dish that come in different varieties. One of the most popular is the barbecue pork bun, which features a soft, fluffy bun filled with sweet and savory barbecue pork. Another delicious option is the steamed shrimp and chive bun, which is bursting with flavor and has a satisfying chewy texture.
Rice Noodle Rolls
Rice noodle rolls, also known as cheung fun, are a must-try at any dim sum restaurant. These delicate rice noodle sheets are filled with different ingredients and rolled up before being steamed. One of my favorites is the shrimp rice noodle roll, which is filled with plump, juicy shrimp and topped with a savory soy sauce. Another tasty option is the beef rice noodle roll, which features tender slices of beef wrapped in a soft rice noodle sheet.
Overall, these traditional dim sum dishes are a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the world of dim sum. With their unique flavors and textures, they are sure to satisfy any dim sum craving.
Cultural Significance of Dim Sum
As a Chinese cuisine, dim sum has a rich cultural significance that goes beyond just being a delicious meal. The tradition of dim sum is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and has been passed down through generations. Dim sum is often associated with the Cantonese culture and is a popular food item in the Cantonese-speaking regions of China, including Hong Kong and Guangdong.
Dim sum is traditionally served in small portions, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. It is often served in bamboo baskets or on small plates and is accompanied by tea, which is an important part of the dim sum experience. The tea served with dim sum is typically a type of Chinese tea, such as pu-erh or oolong, and is believed to aid in digestion.
In addition to being a social meal, dim sum also has a symbolic significance in Chinese culture. Many of the dishes served during dim sum have auspicious meanings, such as the steamed buns that resemble gold ingots, which symbolize wealth and prosperity. Other dishes, such as the shrimp dumplings, are shaped like goldfish, which is a symbol of good luck.
Overall, dim sum is more than just a meal; it is a cultural experience that has been passed down through generations. Its significance in Chinese culture is evident in the attention to detail that goes into each dish and the importance placed on sharing it with loved ones.
Tips for an Authentic Dim Sum Experience
As a dim sum enthusiast, I have learned a few tips and tricks to enhance the dim sum experience. Here are some of my recommendations:
Tea Pairings
Tea is an essential part of the dim sum experience. It cleanses the palate and aids in digestion. There are several types of tea that pair well with dim sum dishes. Here are a few popular options:
- Jasmine tea: This light and fragrant tea is a popular choice to pair with dim sum. It complements the delicate flavors of steamed dumplings and seafood dishes.
- Pu-erh tea: This earthy and robust tea is a great choice to pair with heartier dim sum dishes such as pork buns and pan-fried noodles.
- Chrysanthemum tea: This floral and slightly sweet tea is a refreshing choice to pair with spicy dim sum dishes such as Szechuan dumplings.
Etiquette and Traditions
Dim sum is more than just a meal, it is a cultural experience. Here are some etiquette and traditions to keep in mind to fully immerse yourself in the experience:
- Sharing: Dim sum is meant to be shared. It is customary to order a variety of dishes and share them with your tablemates. It is considered impolite to order a dish just for yourself.
- Tea pouring: It is customary for the youngest person at the table to pour tea for the elders. When someone pours tea for you, it is polite to tap two fingers on the table as a sign of gratitude.
- Respectful behavior: Dim sum restaurants can be crowded and noisy. It is important to be patient and respectful to the staff and other diners. Avoid shouting or speaking loudly, and be mindful of your table manners.
By following these tips and traditions, you can fully immerse yourself in the authentic dim sum experience.
