If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, then you're probably familiar with dim sum – bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates.
Dim sum is a popular brunch or lunch option that's perfect for sharing with friends and family. It's a great way to sample a range of dishes without committing to a full-sized meal.
Chicago is home to a diverse range of dim sum restaurants, each offering their take on this traditional Chinese cuisine. From the bustling Chinatown to the trendy neighborhoods of West Loop and River North, you'll find plenty of options to choose from.
Whether you're looking for classic dishes like har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai (pork dumplings) or more adventurous flavors like chicken feet and tripe, there's something for everyone.
But with so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the best places for dim sum in Chicago.
We've scoured the city to find the restaurants that offer the freshest ingredients, the most authentic flavors, and the best overall dining experience. So, whether you're a dim sum newbie or a seasoned pro, read on to find out where you should be heading for your next brunch or lunch outing.
1. Duck Duck Goat
Duck Duck Goat is a unique Chinese restaurant that offers a fresh take on dim sums. The restaurant has a playful and inviting Asian-inspired interior that adds to the overall dining experience.
The food is creative and delicious, with favorites like the Peking duck, crispy spring rolls, and Sechuan chicken.
Although some dishes may be a bit pricey and portions may be smaller than expected, the flavors and ambiance make up for it.
If you're looking for a hip spot for elevated Chinese cuisine, Duck Duck Goat is definitely worth checking out.
2. Happy Lamb Hot Pot, Chicago
Happy Lamb Hot Pot in Chicago is a must-visit for dim-sum lovers.
With a wide variety of options to choose from, this Chinese-Asian restaurant offers all-you-can-eat hot pot at a reasonable price. The staff is attentive and the food is fresh and delicious.
The spicy broth is a must-try for those who like some heat. The restaurant can get crowded, so it's best to reserve ahead.
The lamb dumplings and quail eggs are highly recommended. The self-service sauce bar is a nice touch. Happy Lamb Hot Pot is definitely worth the wait!
3. MCCB Chicago
MCCB Chicago is a must-visit for anyone looking for exceptional dim sums.
The restaurant offers a great selection of Sichuan dishes, including Dan Dan noodles, Beef Shumai, Dry Chili Chicken, Eggplant with Garlic Sauce, and Twice Cooked Pork Belly. The food is phenomenal, and the prices are quite reasonable.
The service is excellent, and the staff is knowledgeable about the dishes. MCCB Chicago is a modern stop for creative Chinese cuisine, and the charcoal grilled fish is a must-try.
The restaurant can get crowded, so it's best to reserve a table or go early.
4. MingHin Cuisine
MingHin Cuisine is a stylish Chinese kitchen that offers a Cantonese menu of dim sums, hot pots, and seafood.
The restaurant has a modern space with a full bar that serves cocktails. The dim sums are fantastic and come in large portions with great flavor profiles.
The stir fry clam in black bean sauce and roasted duck in soy sauce are impeccable. The restaurant staff is fantastic and very attentive.
The prices are a little on the higher side but not that bad. MingHin Cuisine is a great place to satisfy your dimsum cravings.
5. Wentworth Seafood House
Wentworth Seafood House offers authentic Cantonese dim sums and seafood dishes at reasonable prices.
The food is well-prepared and cooked fresh, with a good variety of options. The staff is fast and efficient, providing great service.
The atmosphere is relaxed and easygoing, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, so reservations are recommended. All in all, Wentworth Seafood House is a solid choice for dim sums and Cantonese cuisine in the area.
6. Go 4 Food
Go 4 Food is a hidden gem in the heart of Chinatown. This restaurant offers some of the best Cantonese style food in the area.
The seafood dishes are fresh and delicious, especially the soft shell crab and razor clam. The French style beef tenderloin is a must-try and bursting with flavor.
The staff is super friendly and the service is great. Go 4 Food is a casual restaurant that serves creative Chinese and Asian cuisine.
Whether you're in the mood for dim-sum or something more substantial, this place has got you covered.
7. Han 202 Restaurant
Looking for a unique dim-sum experience in the city that won't break the bank, Han 202 Restaurant is the place to be.
With a set menu of four courses, you can mix and match to your heart's content and enjoy an eclectic mix of Asian-influenced dishes.
BYOB is also allowed, making it an affordable night out. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the food is delicious and beautifully presented.
Don't miss out on the spicy shrimp and scallops – it's a must-try.
8. Grand Palace
Grand Palace is a must-visit dim-sum place for those who love authentic Cantonese cuisine.
This restaurant has been around for quite some time, and the owners are very friendly. The menu is not extensive, but all the dishes are prepared to perfection.
The steamed fish and steamed eggs with minced pork are highly recommended. The soft shell crab with duck yolk is also a must-try.
Although the service can be slow during peak hours, the food is worth the wait. If you are looking for a genuine Chinese dining experience, this is the place to be.
9. Chiu Quon Bakery & Dim Sum
Chiu Quon Bakery & Dim Sum is a must-visit spot for dim-sum enthusiasts. The place is famous for its BBQ buns, sesame seed balls with bean paste, pork and shrimp turnovers, and dim-sum.
The bakery also offers a delicious Portuguese custard and sweet top buns.
Although the prices are reasonable, the place can get busy, and the service can be slow. However, the friendly staff makes up for it.
The bakery is cash-only, but there is an ATM inside. The variety of options and the taste of the items make it a worthwhile visit for foodies.
10. Lao Peng You
Lao Peng You is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious and authentic dim sums.
The handmade noodles and dumplings are absolutely delicious and worth the wait.
The mushroom and eggplant salad and Dan Dan noodles are highly recommended.
The service is excellent and the atmosphere is cozy. The only downside is the long wait time, but it's worth it.
11. D Cuisine
D Cuisine is a trendy Chinese restaurant that serves delicious dim sums and larger plates.
The staff is friendly and efficient, and the interior is cozy and welcoming. The menu is extensive, and the food is excellent in taste and quality.
The restaurant is perfect for both small groups and solo diners, with a casual and relaxing vibe.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy some authentic and creative Chinese cuisine, D Cuisine is definitely worth checking out.
12. Dongpo Impression
Dongpo Impression is a Sichuan restaurant that offers dim sums and other regional specialties.
The food is delicious and authentic, making it a great spot for those who love Sichuan cuisine. The service is exceptional and the staff are friendly and accommodating.
The restaurant is unpretentious and has a BYOB policy, making it a perfect place for a casual dining experience.
Prices are reasonable, and the environment is elegant with a Chinese-style decor. For those who enjoy spicy food, Dongpo Impression is definitely worth a try.
13. Tasty Place
Tasty Place is a hidden gem for dim-sum lovers. The prices are affordable and the portions are generous.
The staff is friendly and efficient, making the dining experience enjoyable.
The restaurant may not have the best ambiance, but the food more than makes up for it.
The salt and pepper tofu and shrimp rice noodle rolls are highly recommended. Keep in mind that Tasty Place only accepts cash.
