Singaporeans have a deep-rooted love for dim sum, a culinary tradition that brings people together over steaming baskets of bite-sized delights. Whether it is the delicate folds of har gow or the savoury richness of siu mai, dim sum offers a variety that appeals to every palate. This affection for dim sum is not merely about taste; it is also about the experience of sharing food in a lively, communal setting. Fortunately, Singapore is home to numerous outstanding dim sum establishments, with Toa Payoh standing out as a particularly vibrant hub. This well-connected neighbourhood boasts a rich food culture, making it an ideal destination for dim sum enthusiasts. From traditional favourites to modern interpretations, Toa Payoh offers a delightful array of options that reflect Singaporeans’ enduring passion for this beloved cuisine. Here are five of the best dim sum in Toa Payoh that will give you a meal you will certainly remember.
Note: This list is strictly not in order.
East Treasure Chinese Restaurant offers a refined dim sum experience that blends traditional Chinese food in Toa Payoh with modern flair. Helmed by a master chef, the restaurant is known for its elegant presentation and use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Diners can expect a menu filled with classic dim sum favourites such as har gow, siu mai, and char siew bao, all crafted with precision and care. The ambience is warm and nostalgic, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual meals with friends. With its commitment to flavour and authenticity, East Treasure stands out as a delightful destination for those seeking a memorable dim sum meal in the heartlands of Singapore.
1. I came here for lunch with my family at noon. The Beijing duck here really surprised me. The portion was large and the Beijing duck was very delicious. We had the duck in three ways , 1st serving with crispy duck skin sliced , 2nd serving spring onion ginger fried , 3rd serving is the duck handmade noodle soup. The noodles and soup were perfectly blended. It was great and worth the money. Great good and service , Ms Yan the assistant manager prompt with her service, and her charismatic nature proved to be a perfect pairing with his professionalism. Upon being seated, she explained to us the varieties food and her presence elevated our dining experience and my kids were really likes her charming service , we would love to return to east treasures restaurant to try out other dishes.
2. The family had dinner here on a Sunday and it was an interesting experience. Service was a little chaotic, yet friendly enough, as they seemed to be understaffed, while the restaurant was about two-thirds full. Foodwise, it was pretty good. We liked the roast duck, which was delish, as well as the hakka fried pork which you eat with pieces of lettuce. The slightly spicy fried brinjal with salted egg and pork floss was also tasty. We liked the pork ribs soup and quite a few of us asked for extra helpings of the broth. Dinner for 7 adults came to $200, which was reasonable.
3. The duck was juicy and not dry, the fish was very fresh. All the dishes ordered were very tasty.
| Website: | https://easttreasure.com.sg/ |
| Operating Hours: | Daily 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 10:15 PM |
| Number: | 8770 5043 |
| Address: | 470 Lor 6 Toa Payoh, #01-72, Singapore 310470 |
Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao is a classic favourite when it comes to dim sum in Toa Payoh. It is part of a renowned culinary group celebrated for its consistent quality and authentic Chinese fare. This outlet specialises in Jiangnan-style cuisine, with a focus on handmade xiao long bao and la mian, complemented by a variety of dim sum offerings. The restaurant’s casual yet stylish setting makes it a popular choice for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners. Signature dim sum items include delicate dumplings, steamed buns, and crispy spring rolls, all prepared with finesse. Crystal Jade’s reputation for excellence ensures that diners in Toa Payoh can enjoy a satisfying and flavourful dim sum experience rooted in tradition.
1. Very nice salted egg yolk custard buns and mapo tofu (odd combo, I know,lol)!! Great place for dim sum and would live to try their crispy duck next time!
2. Popped by for a late lunch on a weekday..it was empty. Ordered some dim sum items like rice rolls, crispy char siew pastry & carrot cake. The dipping chilli went great with the items. Overall a high standard of yummyness!
3. We had gathering here. The dim sum quality is good while the plant based food offers a good choice for vegetarian. All are happy and I did like the dessert which has red bean paste and coconut milk jelly. Staff’s service is good as well so this is a safe choice.
| Website: | https://www.crystaljade.com/ |
| Operating Hours: | Daily 11 AM – 10 PM |
| Number: | 8366 3228 |
| Address: | 470 Lor 6 Toa Payoh, #01-70, Singapore 310470 |
Another go-to choice for good and cheap dim sum in Toa Payoh is Lee Kwang Kee Teochew Cuisine. It offers a distinctive take on dim sum, rooted in the light and delicate flavours of Teochew cooking. Open 24 hours, this restaurant is a haven for night owls and early risers alike, serving freshly made dim sum throughout the day. The menu features a variety of steamed and fried items, including Teochew-style dumplings, yam puffs, and traditional porridge. Emphasising freshness and subtle seasoning, the dishes highlight the natural taste of ingredients, staying true to Teochew culinary principles. With its welcoming atmosphere and round-the-clock service, Lee Kwang Kee is a reliable spot for authentic and comforting dim sum in Toa Payoh.
1. I’m impressed with the food here. A jem in the neighbourhood and it open 24 hours! Very authentic teochew food. Highly recommended on their teochew platter, you can have all the teochew signature in one plate. The pig trotter jelly is also a bit different with other stalls, thicker and more texture, and very nice. The fish porridge is awesome too. You must try The best part you can also enjoy Cantonese dim sum here.
2. A great night spot for your supper cravings! Serving great dim sum and their famous fish slice / head steamboat with ample parking space. Ordered a medium size steamboat with 3 additional dishes cost us less than $150. Price is so much cheaper than the other famous fish head steamboat in town. Highly recommended to visit this outlet. 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
3. My guilty pleasure! i love their “porridge” (more of rice and soup) as it’s cooked in this meaty, flavourful broth where the scallions and ginger bits toppings compliment it so well! it’s the perfect meal for a cold weather and they have lots of pork chunks! (you can order the seafood too, its has a lighter taste) huge love to the red bean pancake. you can feel the slight crisp of pancake’s flaky skin on each bite, accompanied with a touch of sesame taste and a warm spread of red bean taste on ur taste buds! you could eat lots of this as unlike other red bean paste, this is mildly sweet. personally, nothing special about the dimsum though the shrimp wanton has actual fresh, juicy shrimps!
| Website: | https://www.teochew-cuisine.com/ |
| Operating Hours: | Daily 24 Hours |
| Number: | 6259 0080 |
| Address: | 212 Lor 8 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310212 |
Swatow Seafood in Toa Payoh is a beloved destination for Teochew-style dim sum, offering a nostalgic dining experience in a classic Chinese banquet setting. Known for its all-you-can-eat dim sum buffet, the restaurant features over 20 handcrafted selections, including steamed dumplings, baked buns, and fried treats. The menu also includes seafood specialities, reflecting the Teochew emphasis on fresh, ocean-sourced ingredients. Swatow’s vintage decor and lively atmosphere evoke the charm of traditional yum cha sessions, making it a favourite among families and long-time patrons. Whether for a leisurely brunch or a celebratory meal, Swatow delivers a hearty and authentic dim sum experience in the heart of Toa Payoh.
1. Wonderfully fresh and tasty dim sum with great variety brought to the table on push carts. One can also order ala carte items from the menu including specialties like pig trotters in vinegar, chilled pork jelly etc. The servers who look like old timers are patient and helpful. Restaurant is bright and renovated though it has been there for years.
2. I greatly appreciate the wonderful experience we had at your restaurant. The private room comfortably accommodated all 13 of us at one table, which made our family gathering for my mother’s birthday feel intimate and special. Your staff truly impressed us with their exceptional service. Your staff took the initiative to serve us individual portions when she saw we were engrossed in our conversations. This thoughtful gesture allowed us to enjoy both the food and company without interruption. The portion sizes were great – everyone felt satisfied by the sixth dish, with no one left hungry. We also appreciated not feeling rushed, even as we were the last guests to leave. I must especially commend the friendly server who ensured our tea cups were always full and who maintained such polite professionalism when replacing cutlery and serving dishes. Thank you for making our gathering so memorable. We’ll definitely be returning soon.
3. A place that brought me back to my roots… Being a fellow Teochew Nang, it was so comforting to dine here and eat all their Teochew dishes at Swatow Restaurant! I absolutely love their cold crab, pork liver roll (similar to the transitional prawn roll), braised duck & last but not least, their Orh Nee (yam paste). Special mention here has got to be their soy bean kampong chicken. It was so tender and flavourful and has a the right touch of fragrant soy bean taste to it.
| Website: | https://swatow.com.sg/ |
| Operating Hours: | Monday – Friday 9 AM – 2:30 PM, 3 PM – 5 PM, 6 PM – 10 PM | Saturday & Sunday 8 AM – 2:30 PM, 3 PM – 5 PM, 6 PM – 10 PM |
| Number: | 6363 1717 |
| Address: | 181 Lor 4 Toa Payoh, #02-602, Singapore 310181 |
Last but not least in this list of the best dim sum in Toa Payoh is Lai Kee Dim Sum. It is a humble yet popular spot known for its handmade, affordable dim sum. Operating from a Toa Payoh hawker-style setting, it offers a wide variety of traditional items such as har gow, siu mai, char siew bao, and their signature Ji Guo Bao (Chicken Nest Pau). Each item is crafted with care using time-honoured recipes and fresh ingredients, making it a favourite among locals seeking a quick and satisfying meal. The casual, no-frills environment adds to its charm, attracting regulars who appreciate good food at reasonable prices. Lai Kee is a testament to how quality dim sum can thrive in a simple, community-focused setting.
1. Quick fix for dim sum.
2. Great dim sum.
3. Lai Kee Dim Sum in Toa Payoh is a beloved spot for dim sum enthusiasts. Their dim sum offerings are both delicious and affordable. The menu boasts a variety of traditional and innovative dim sum dishes, and the flavors are consistently satisfying. If you’re in Toa Payoh and craving a dim sum feast, Lai Kee is a great choice for a tasty and budget-friendly meal.
| Website: | https://laikeedimsum.com/ |
| Operating Hours: | Daily 6 AM – 9 PM |
| Number: | 8731 3488 |
| Address: | 126 Lor 1 Toa Payoh, Block 126, Singapore 310126 |
Toa Payoh truly exemplifies the richness of Singapore’s dim sum scene. The neighbourhood’s diverse offerings cater to both seasoned dim sum lovers and curious newcomers, ensuring that everyone finds something to enjoy. Whether one seeks a quick bite or a leisurely meal with family and friends, the variety and quality of available dim sum in Toa Payoh make it a reliable choice. The area’s accessibility and welcoming atmosphere further enhance its appeal, drawing food enthusiasts from across the island. Singaporeans’ love for dim sum is clearly reflected in the bustling eateries and the joyful conversations that accompany each meal. With so many excellent options concentrated in one locale, Toa Payoh remains a cherished destination for those who appreciate the art and flavour of dim sum. It is a testament to Singapore’s vibrant and inclusive food culture.