Yum cha is a popular Chinese dish consisting of a vast range of delicious dumpling and dim sum. A great yum cha experience often consists of efficient service, fresh food with plenty of flavour and also some Chinese tea. Thankfully, Canberra is home to a number of great yum cha restaurants and in this article, we will list some of the best.
Skip to the list of Canberra's best yum cha restaurants
- Ginseng
- Yum Cha CBD
- Dumpling Inn Restaurant
- Natural Nine
What makes a great yum cha restaurant?
As with any style of restaurant, there are several key features to look for in a quality yum cha restaurant.
Tasty food: The most important part of eating out at a restaurant is the quality and flavour of the food. Great yum cha spots all take pride in their dishes, using fresh, quality ingredients to make sure the taste is spot on and customers are left happy and wanting to come back. They should also have a variety of options so that there is something for everyone in their yum cha offerings.
Great service: Fantastic service is important for any restaurant serving yum cha, given it is expected to be fast and efficient. A great restaurant will also have friendly and attentive staff.
Value for money: Eating out can often be expensive so it's important you are getting bang for your buck at your choice of restaurant. The cost of getting yum cha can add up if you want to try a number of dim sum, so you'll want to make sure it's quality food if you intend on splurging.
The best yum cha restaurants in Canberra 2024
To be listed as one of Canberra’s best, Canberra Daily requires them to have maintained a track record of positive reviews on Google or Facebook, with a minimum average of 4/5 stars.
When looking for some delicious yum cha in Canberra, check out our list of the best local restaurants below.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a popular yum cha spot in the city, known for its delicious dim sum and seafood dishes.
The multi-award Chinese restaurant offer an extensive menu and attentive service in a lovely surrounding.
Shinta Benilda left this five star review on Google; “My first time coming for yum cha here. It was really good. The food was fresh and all yum cha we’re really yummy. The staff were attentive and quick in responding to requests.”
Natural Nine
Located inside Casino Canberra, Natural Nine serves up food with authentic Chinese flavours.
The restaurant is highly rated for its dim sum and wide variety of dishes. They have a dedicated yum cha menu for Fridays.
Angela Everitt left this five star review on Google; “Went to natural nine for my son’s birthday. Food was excellent and great value. Service was also very good. Cocktails delicious. Would definitely recommend.”
Dumpling Inn Restaurant
Dumpling Inn is a popular Chinese restaurant known for its delicious dumplings, as well as a variety of other dishes.
The restaurant has a casual and comfortable atmosphere, with a menu featuring a wide variety of dumplings, including pork and chive dumplings, seafood dumplings, and vegetarian dumplings. In addition to dumplings, the menu also includes other popular Chinese dishes such as noodles, rice dishes, and stir-fries.
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and take-out and delivery options are also available. Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Genevieve Morton wrote this five star review on Google; “The food is so lovely! Very fresh and flavours are awesome. Lovely welcoming staff too!”
Yum Cha CBD
Located right in the city, Yum Cha CBD offers a menu full of delicious meals, including plenty choice for yum cha.
Along with the lengthy yum cha menu, they also serve other favourites such as fried rice, chow mein, prawn toast, spring rolls, lobster, sweet and sour pork and plenty more.
Joseph J Ellis left this five star review on Google; “I was recommended this place and I must say I pleasantly surprised. The customer service is top notch. Very polite and decent staff. The food is awesome and the place is so clean and hygienic. I brought some of my clients for lunch and I will be definitively going back again.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is yum cha?
Yum cha generally involves small portions of steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried dim sum dishes which are designed to be eaten communally alongside Chinese tea.
What does yum cha mean?
Yum cha in the Cantonese language, literally means “drink tea”. It refers to having a mean with dim sum dishes.
Are dim sum and yum cha the same?
While Cantonese often say yum cha instead of dim sum, they typically mean different things elsewhere. Dim sum refers to the small dishes of food and desserts, where as yum cha refers to the act of having a meal involving those dishes while drinking Chinese tea.
How is yum cha typically served?
Yum cha is typically served from carts or trolleys that are pushed around the restaurant. Diners can choose the dishes they desire as the carts pass by their table. In some restaurants, yum cha is ordered from a menu, and the dishes are brought directly to the table.
Are there any specific dietary considerations for yum cha?
Yum cha can accommodate various dietary considerations. It’s advisable to inform the restaurant staff of any allergies, dietary restrictions, or preferences beforehand. They can guide you on suitable dishes and provide alternatives or modifications if needed.
