Best dim sum in Amsterdam
Oriental City
A low key, unassuming dim sum spot in the centre of Amsterdam, Oriental City doesn’t have the glitz and glamour of a fancy eatery – but its food does. Its chefs have come straight from Hong Kong, bringing with them all the skill and knowhow of creating the most delicious dim sum in Amsterdam. Choose from over 60 dishes – and if the staff are in a good mood, you may get a free pot of jasmine tea.
Oriental City | Oudezijds Voorburgwal 177-179
Full Moon Garden
The district around Leidseplein has no shortage of restaurants to fill your belly before an evening of entertainment. Full Moon Garden has a staggering 80 types of dim sum to choose from, from steamed dumplings to sweet buns to savoury noodles and deep-fried wontons. They also serve a wide range of classic Cantonese dishes, including sizzling wok stir-fries and clay pots.
Full Moon Garden | Leidsestraat 95
Sea Palace
Step into this floating Chinese restaurant whose pagoda roof is instantly recognised by every Amsterdammer. The Sea Palace created an extended Dim Sum menu for afternoon eaters (between 12:00 and 16:00) filled with eight pages of goodness, from dragon buns to sweet coconut dumplings with lotus paste. Even if you come later, don’t fret: you’re in for a real treat, and everything is meant to be shared. Sit next to the window to enjoy the sights as much as the food!
Sea Palace | Oosterdokskade 8
One Dim Sum
One of the chicest dim sum places on the list, One Dim Sum has all the marks of a high-class restaurant. Its subdued, modern décor belies the traditional, homely dim sum you’ll experience once you’re served your first bites: vegetarian spring rolls, stuffed eggplant, minced pork wontons, steamed pork buns or one of the dozens of other dishes.
One Dim Sum | Overtoom 109
New King
For some of the best dim sum in the centre of Amsterdam, head to New King, located right on the Zeedijk – though you may need a little luck to get a seat, as there are no reservations, and the place is usually packed. Besides the delightful dim sum, try its wonton soup or, if you’re still hungry enough, the chef’s speciality: Peking duck. Food is brought out fairly quickly to the table, making it an ideal pitstop to devour lunch or dinner.
New King | Zeedijk 115-117
Hoi Tin
For simple, affordable dim sum in the heart of Amsterdam, Hoi Tin is where to be. The restaurant caters to locals as well as tourists, with a dim sum menu that’s just large enough to impress but not too large to confuse. Fried prawn, honey BBQ pork, turnip cakes and more are on the menu, allowing guests to have a real dim sum experience that won’t break the bank.
Hoi Tin | Zeedijk 122-124
Mister Chen X Cha House
At Cha House, located just outside Oosterpark, dim sum is only part of the experience – but the dishes they do have are simply delicious. Pair your dim sum with a few pieces of sushi, some ramen or other Chinese and Japanese specialties for a culinary trip around Asia; your taste buds will thank you.
Cha House | Linnaeusstraat 18
Dim Sum Thing
Located in the Foodhallen in Amsterdam Oud-West, Dim Sum Thing is where you go when you want dim sum fast. Order at the stall and lean against one of the tables – or the wall, if it’s particularly busy – to enjoy your selection of dim “sumthing”: the Lotus Flowerbomb features sticky rice with chicken and shrimp, while the Sweety Sesame Ball is stuffed with a tasty red bean paste.
Dim Sum Thing | Bellamyplein 51
Ron Gastrobar Oriental
At Ron Gastrobar Oriental, dim sum is elevated to a high-class, fine-dining experience. Traditional dim sum dishes are given an international flair with flavours from around the world, and the glamorous, Asian-fusion décor gives you that oh-so fancy feeling. The prices do match the impeccable service, the food and the beautiful décor, so don’t be surprised when you’re served the bill!
Ron Gastrobar Oriental | Kerkstraat 23