If Dim Sum is your thing then Hong Kong is the right place to go. On my last visit, I went to Maxim’s Palace, reputably one of the best restaurants to sample this delicious delicacy, strangely located in the City Hall. As it’s so popular be prepared for a wait when you arrive – you’ll be given a ticket with a number on which will invariably only make you more hungry as you soak up the sights and smells from the enormous dining hall with a great view over Victoria Harbour.
“Traditional dim sum includes various types of steamed buns such as cha siu baau, dumplings and rice noodle rolls (cheong fun), which contain a range of ingredients, including beef, chicken, pork, prawns and vegetarian options… Dim sum can be cooked by steaming and frying, among other methods. The serving sizes are usually small and normally served as three or four pieces in one dish.”
Because of the small portions, you can try many different types in one sitting which you pick from carts being wheeled around the restaurant. Most are served with different sauces (sweet/sour/spicy) and of course, drinking tea (Yum cha) is a must. Be sure to come after 11 am and before 3 pm – you’ll find the restaurant in the very inauspicious looking City Hall building on the second floor not far from Central MTR station.
It’s not the cheapest place by Chinese standards at 25-50 HKD per dish (£2-4) but well worth it given the exceptional quality and great setting. If you can’t make it to Hong Kong but are in London I also highly recommend the Dragon Castle which I previously reviewed and often frequented when I lived there!
Reply