Best Dim Sum Dishes: 10 Must-Try Favorites for Every Table

There are few culinary experiences as joyful and communal as dim sum. At United Dumplings, we treat it not just as a meal, but as a celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and connection. Whether you're gathering with friends for brunch or introducing little ones to new flavors, dim sum offers the perfect canvas. We're spotlighting the best dim sum dishes at United Dumplings that reflect both time-honored traditions and a few creative twists.

Read More: Unique Dumpling Dishes: Top 7 Creations You’ll Only Find at United Dumplings

What Makes a Dim Sum Dish Truly Great?

When we craft a dim sum recipe, we focus on more than flavor. Texture, aroma, and visual appeal matter too. The best dim sum dishes are balanced—savory yet delicate, rich but never heavy. Above all, they must be shareable and stir conversation at the table. Our team hand-wraps each dumpling and bun with care, honoring tradition while embracing seasonal inspiration.

10 Must-Try Dim Sum Menu Items

1. Grandma’s Pork Dumplings for Dim Sum 

This recipe comes straight from our Northern Chinese roots. Filled with seasoned ground pork and napa cabbage, these dumplings are juicy and comforting. They speak to memory and home.

2. Shrimp Dumplings

These translucent bites are classics for a reason. We combine tender shrimp with bamboo shoots and scallions to create a silky dumpling that nearly melts in your mouth. 

3. Chicken Mushroom Truffle Dumplings

A modern favorite, this dumpling features shiitake mushrooms, ground chicken, and a hint of truffle oil. The aroma is deep and woodsy, with a balanced filling. It’s a refined choice among the best dim sum dishes for food lovers seeking something new.

4. Pork Soup Dumplings

These broth-filled dumplings deliver a warming, rich bite. Filled with savory pork and gelatin-rich stock, they require careful handling and reward with flavor and finesse.

5. Siu Mai

Our version of this Cantonese staple combines pork, shrimp, and mushroom into an open-topped dumpling that’s both savory and satisfying. A touch of our house seasoning enhances the profile without overpowering it.

6. Vegetarian Dumplings

Don’t underestimate these plant-based parcels. Baby bok choy, tofu meat, and shiitake mushrooms come together in a dumpling that’s layered, earthy, and fresh. A favorite among guests seeking balance and depth.

7. Sichuan Wontons in Red Oil

Spicy yet balanced, these pork and shrimp wontons sit in a chili oil sauce that delivers heat and flavor. The Sichuan peppercorn adds a tingling finish, inviting your next bite before the last one is done.

8. Lobster Pot Stickers

This indulgent option brings together lobster, scallop, and shrimp in a dumpling with a perfectly crisped base. A sesame-soy dipping sauce adds brightness, making it a rich yet composed dish. It's no surprise this ranks high among the best dim sum dishes.

9. Chinese BBQ Pork Bao

Fluffy on the outside, rich and sticky inside, these steamed buns are filled with sweet-savory char siu pork. They’re a nostalgic treat for many and a must-try for newcomers to the world of dim sum.

10. Vegetarian Spring Rolls for Dim Sum 

Light and crunchy, these rolls are packed with napa cabbage, carrot, and mung bean noodles. They provide a crisp contrast to the softer dim sum menu items on the table.

Dim Sum With a Story

Each of these dishes holds a unique place in our culinary story. Some are inspired by our heritage, while others reflect the melting pot of San Francisco. At United Dumplings, we believe good food tells a story—and dim sum lets us tell many. From Rockridge to Marina to Bernal, our guests come for these signature dishes that bring people together.

Read More: What to Eat With Dumplings: 10 Best Side Dishes

Bring the Flavors Home With You

We don’t just want guests to enjoy dim sum in our restaurants. That’s why we offer our most beloved dumplings in a frozen collection. You can steam them fresh at home—anytime you need comfort, celebration, or just a really good meal. Explore the best dim sum dishes in person or from your own kitchen. Every bite is an invitation to connect, share, and savor what matters most.