San Francisco is famous for its incredible food scene, and one dish that stands out is dim sum. This bite-sized culinary treasure, which originated in China, has become a beloved part of San Francisco’s diverse food culture. Whether you’re a local or visiting, exploring dim sum in the city is a must-do for any food lover. At Pristine Traveller Tales, we’ve rounded up ten amazing places in San Francisco where you can experience the magic of dim sum. From traditional offerings to modern twists, here’s your guide to the best dim sum in the city.
1. Yank Sing
No list of dim sum places in San Francisco would be complete without mentioning Yank Sing San Francisco. This iconic spot is well-known for its high-quality dim sum offerings and elegant atmosphere. Located in the heart of the Financial District, Yank Sing has been serving traditional dim sum favorites for decades, but what really sets them apart is the freshness and flavor of every dish. Their signature dish, Shanghai dumplings, is a must-try, as well as their delicious shrimp dumplings and roasted Peking duck.
Why visit:
- Elegant and refined setting
- Consistently fresh and high-quality dim sum
- Must-try: Shanghai dumplings and shrimp dumplings
2. City View Restaurant
If you’re looking for a dim sum experience that feels classic yet lively, City View Restaurant is the place for you. In 2023, City View moved into a handsome space across the street from Portsmouth Square at 33 Walter U. Lum Place. This restaurant offers a bustling atmosphere with a wide variety of dim sum options. From pork buns to taro dumplings, there’s something for everyone. The best part? It’s incredibly affordable without compromising on taste.
Why visit:
- Lively atmosphere
- Affordable pricing for a downtown location
- Try their BBQ pork buns and fried taro dumplings
3. Dragon Beaux
For those who enjoy a modern spin on traditional dishes, Dragon Beaux in the Richmond District is a must-visit. This restaurant is known for its creative take on dim sum, offering colorful dumplings and seasonal ingredients. Dragon Beaux’s dim sum dishes are crafted with flair, making them both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Their multi-colored xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and truffle siu mai are standout items.
Why visit:
- Creative and colorful dim sum offerings
- Modern and stylish atmosphere
- Must-try: Multi-colored soup dumplings
4. Good Mong Kok Bakery
For dim sum lovers who want a more casual and budget-friendly experience, Good Mong Kok Bakery in Chinatown is the perfect stop. While it’s more of a takeout spot than a sit-down restaurant, the flavors here are anything but simple. The bakery’s steamed pork buns, shrimp dumplings, and sesame balls are always popular. The dim sum is fresh, flavorful, and easy on the wallet.
Why visit:
- Quick, affordable, and delicious
- Perfect for grabbing dim sum on the go
- Must-try: Steamed pork buns
5. Koi Palace
Located just outside San Francisco in Daly City, Koi Palace is worth the short drive for its authentic and high-quality dim sum. With an impressive menu and an elegant dining space, Koi Palace serves traditional Cantonese dim sum with a few innovative surprises. Some standout dishes include their juicy pork dumplings, pan-fried turnip cakes, and their signature crispy baked pork buns.
Why visit:
- Elegant dining experience
- Known for its consistency and quality
- Must-try: Crispy baked pork buns
6. Harborview Restaurant & Bar
Overlooking the scenic Embarcadero, Harborview Restaurant & Bar is a great choice for those looking for both great views and dim sum. Their menu features all the dim sum classics but with an upscale twist. The shrimp har gow and pork siu mai are beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Enjoy a sophisticated meal while taking in views of the San Francisco Bay.
Why visit:
- Beautiful views of the Embarcadero
- Upscale yet traditional dim sum dishes
- Must-try: Shrimp har gow
7. Dim Sum Club
Located in the Nob Hill area, Dim Sum Club is a hidden gem offering quality dim sum at reasonable prices. The small yet inviting space is perfect for those who want a quick bite without compromising on flavor. Some favorites include their shrimp rice noodle rolls and baked BBQ pork buns. The portion sizes are generous, making it an ideal spot for sharing with friends.
Why visit:
- Affordable and flavorful
- Cozy, relaxed environment
- Must-try: Baked BBQ pork buns
8. Palette Tea House
Located in Ghirardelli Square, Palette Tea House brings a contemporary touch to the dim sum experience. With an artsy interior and an inventive menu, this spot is great for those who want to enjoy dim sum in a more modern setting. They offer unique takes on traditional dishes, like squid ink soup dumplings and lobster dumplings. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails for a complete experience.
Why visit:
- Artistic and trendy atmosphere
- Innovative and unique dim sum offerings
- Must-try: Squid ink soup dumplings
9. Hong Kong Lounge
For a more traditional experience with a wide variety of choices, Hong Kong Lounge II in Inner Richmond is a favorite among locals. The dining space is spacious, and the service is fast, making it an ideal choice for large groups. Classic dishes such as the shrimp dumplings and crispy fried taro balls are highly recommended.
Why visit:
- Perfect for groups
- Traditional dim sum with fast service
- Must-try: Crispy fried taro balls
10. Delicious Dim Sum
Last but certainly not least is Delicious Dim Sum in Chinatown. As its name suggests, this no-frills spot is all about delivering on taste. While the space is small and mainly geared for takeout, the flavors pack a punch. Their shrimp dumplings, siu mai, and pork buns are consistently fresh and flavorful. If you’re looking for a quick, tasty meal on the go, Delicious Dim Sum is a great choice.
Why visit:
- Tasty and affordable
- Perfect for takeout
- Must-try: Siu Mai
Conclusion
San Francisco is truly a paradise for dim sum lovers, with a range of spots offering everything from traditional to innovative takes on this beloved cuisine. Whether you’re visiting Yank Sing San Francisco for its refined flavors or grabbing a quick bite at Good Mong Kok Bakery, you’re sure to be impressed by the diversity and quality of dim sum in the city. Each restaurant brings its own unique spin, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Ready to explore these incredible dim sum spots? Head over to these locations and dive into a world of mouth-watering dumplings, buns, and more. At Pristine Traveller Tales, we’re passionate about helping you discover the best food adventures in San Francisco, and dim sum is a great place to start.
