If you\u2019re looking for where to get your dumpling fix you\u2019ve come to the right place, we\u2019ve listed our best dim sum places in Cape Town. But first, what is dim sum exactly? Let\u2019s take a look…<\/p>\n
Dim sum refers to a style of Chinese food that is served in small portions, usually dumpling, bun or roll in nature. Some say the name is derived from the phrase \u201ctouch the heart\u201d and others say it means \u201cto eat a little something\u201d. Whichever one it is though, that\u2019s pretty much exactly what you\u2019re doing \u2013 eating bites of heavenly deliciousness that have either been steamed or deep fried.<\/p>\n
The exact origins of dim sum are unclear (aren\u2019t they always?). There is a theory that this bite sized, dumpling style of food was popular food for travellers and workers on the move along the famous Silk Road trade routes. Patrons would stop in for a refreshment of tea and small sweet and savoury dishes were offered as an accompaniment.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Dumpling fillings and shapes vary and can become quite complex but there are a few more common ones that you\u2019ll see over and over \u2013 Char Siu Bao (steamed pork buns), potstickers, prawn Har Gau, wontons, Ham Sui Gok (fried crescent shaped dumplings) and more. Savoury fillings include options like duck, chicken, pork and vegetables. Whatever your preference though, these are a few places around Cape Town that serve up mean dim sum.<\/p>\n
South China Dim Sum Bar<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Situated in Long Street is South China Dim Sum Bar, one of the most popular places to dine on dim sum. The restaurant provides an intimate setting and is known for its quality food. The team really care about the quality of what they make and you\u2019ll be hard pressed to choose from all the tasty traditional options on offer. If you ask a dim sum enthusiast where to go, this is probably where they\u2019ll send you.<\/p>\n