From Steamer to Stardom—The 15 Best Dim Sum Spots in Penang You Should Try!
One morning in Penang, I found myself standing in a long queue outside a dim sum shop that a friend recommended. Steam rising from bamboo baskets, chatter filling the air, and trays of dumplings zipping past like edible magic.
I had only come for a quick bite, but one har gow later, I knew I was in for a much deeper journey. That single mouthful rekindled my interest in dim sum and made me hunt down the most memorable dim sum spots across the city of Penang.
Each restaurant I visited offered something unique: silk chee cheong fun, perfectly golden egg tarts, and siew mai so good I always have a takeaway! So here it is, a guide to the best dim sum havens in Penang that go from steamer to stardom, that can leave a lasting impression with every bite!
Lhong Tou Dim Sum
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Address: 11, Jalan Pasar, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town
Contact details: +60167126186
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 2:30 PM | 5 to 9 PM
Cost: $$
Lhong Tou Dim Sim in Pulau Tikus is where you’ll want to go when you’re after dim sum that’s fresh and surprisingly generous in portion. You might feel the prices lean a little high, but once you bite into their shrimp dumpling or siew mai packed with whole prawns, it’ll make total sense.
There’s a noticeable focus on freshness, and most dishes come out piping hot with soft, intact skins, especially the yam puff and egg yolk custard bun. The air-conditioned dining room is clean, comfortable, and perfect for when you’re trying to escape the heat while eating something filling.
Despite the occasional show service, it’s a favourite stop when you’re around Pulau Tikus Market. Parking can be tough, but you can make things easier by using the underground mall parking nearby.
| Pro tip: Skip peak hours if you hate queues. Come in just before lunch and order the golden shrimp roll and sesame balls together for a solid sweet-savoury combo. |
Dim Sum Station
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Address: 1-3, CITY JUNCTION 2, Persiaran Lengkuas 2, Kampung Belachan, 10470 Tanjung Tokong
Contact details: +60103768228
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM | 5:30 to 9:30 PM
Cost: $$
Dim Sum Station stands out with a clever twist—each table has its own built-in steamer, so your food stays hot from first bite to last. It’s not your usual dim sum setting, but that’s exactly why it works, especially when you’re digging into something like their thin-skinned char siew cheong fun or the well-packed char siu pao.
They’ve got all the classics covered, but you’ll want to look out for their special series that includes creative picks like banana dim sum with prawn. Prices are on the higher side, but the food’s freshness and flavour justify it, especially with a chef behind the scenes who’s been in the game for decades.
Located inside a mall in Batu Feringghi, it’s clean, spacious, and not overly crowded, even during busy seasons. The staff are friendly, and the vibe is calm enough to sit and chat while enjoying generous portions of freshly steamed dumplings.
| Pro tip: If you’re heading there with friends, order a few of their lesser-known fried items and let them sit on the table steamer. They’re crisp outside but warm and juicy inside. |
Maxim Dim Sum Coco Island
– Media credit: emagnitude
Address: 104, Gurney Dr, Pulau Tikus, 10250 George Town
Contact details: +60165515870
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 2 PM
Cost: $$
Maxim Dim Sum Coco Island may not look like much at first, but it’s one of those reliable dim sum joints that you’ll end up returning to without thinking twice. The prawn dumplings here pack a real bite, and the egg tarts have that flaky crunch that hits just right with a hot cup of tea or their in-house coffee.
You’ll find a wide mix of classic and colourful dim sum choices, all served warm. Another bestseller? Their cilantro dumplings—they’re not easy to come by elsewhere, and the flavour is surprisingly balanced.
The place also does decent fried noodles if you want something heavier alongside your baskets of dim sum. It’s not the fanciest setting, but for a morning dim sum run, it checks all the right boxes.
| Pro tip: Bring your own tea leaves—they actually allow it here. Just tell the staff when you sit down, and they’ll prep it for you, no extra charge! |
Canton-i Restaurant
– Media credit: badboyben
Address: 170-B1-03&04, Gurney Plaza, 170, Gurney Dr, 10250 George Town
Contact details: +6046050988
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Canton-i brings a strong Hong Kong vibe to Penang’s dim sum scene, and you’ll feel it the second you bite into their siew mai—juicy, packed, and easily one of the best around. The variety here is impressive, especially if you’re also into silky congee or want to try their signature wantan mee.
The noodles have that springy bite, and the sui kow dumplings are massive. The setting feels more like a refined Cantonese restaurant than your typical noisy dim sum spot, which works well if you’re planning a relaxed meal.
Prices are definitely on the higher end, but you’re getting top-notch ingredients and a consistent experience. Located at Gurney Plaza with a nice view from the corner, it’s pretty convenient if you’re already in the area, shopping, or sightseeing.
| Pro tip: Skip the drinks and order a pot of Chinese tea instead. It balances out the richness of the dishes and is way less sweet. |
Dragon-i Restaurant
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Address: Queensbay Mall, No. 2F-115-118, Jalan, Persiaran Bayan Indah, 14300 Bayan Lepas
Contact details: +6046265988
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 2:30 PM | 5 to 9:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
Cost: $$
If you’re in Penang and craving proper xiao long bao, Dragon-i is your go-to. Their dumplings come with that perfect soup-filled centre and thin, delicate skin that doesn’t fall apart.
It’s one of the few places where you can taste the effort that goes into each piece. You’ll also want to they their hand-pulled la mian, which has a nice bite and pairs well with their robust broths.
Other highlights include the XO sauce radish cake and wok hei-rich fried rice—yes, you can taste the smokiness. The location inside Queensbay Mall makes it a good pitstop after shopping or a casual dinner with friends.
| Pro tip: Ask for their house-made crispy shrimp chilli. You can even buy a jar to take home if you’re into that kind of savoury heat. |
Passion House
– Media credit: passion.house.100
Address: 4, Kampong Malabar, George Town, 10100 George Town
Contact details: +60102332080
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 3:30 PM | 5:30 to 9:30 PM
Cost: $$
Passion House doesn’t just serve dim sum—it mixes local flair with a solid dose of creativity. Their chee cheong fun with XO sauce hits the right balance of savoury and spicy, while the prawn bean curd rolls are served crip and hot.
You’ll also find rice and noodle dishes on the menu, so it’s easy to mix and match if you’re just here for dim sum. The space is bright and well-kept, with helpful staff who take their time explaining the menu if you need help choosing.
Prices are decent for the variety and quality, and the atmosphere makes it feel more like a casual cafe than your typical dim sum joint. It’s a solid choice if you’re eating with people who like options
| Pro tip: Ask for the osmanthus honey drink with herbal jelly. It’s not on every menu, and it’s great for cooling down after a spicy dish or just refreshing your palate. |
Kitchen of Countryman Penang (Gu Xiang)
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Address: 8, Jalan Bawasah, 10050 George Town
Contact details: +60143433315
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 3 PM | 5 to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Kitchen of Countryman Penang feels like a proper dim sum experience done right. Everything is handmade and steamed fresh only after you order, so your dumplings arrive hot and not soggy.
The bestseller here is the red rice chee cheong fun, something you won’t find just anywhere, with silky skin and a generous mix of meat and prawns. You’ll also want to try the shrimp dumpling and siew mai, both packed with flavour and clearly made by someone who’s done this for decades.
It’s not the cheapest spot, but you’re paying for technique, freshness, and quality ingredients. The place is cosy and clean too!
| Pro tip: Their dim sum is available all day—yes, even at dinner—so don’t feel like you need to wake up early to enjoy it. Great if you’re craving siew mai long after lunch hours. |
Choon Hin Dim Sum Restaurant
– Media credit: choonhindimsum
Address: 3732, Jalan Ooi Kar Seng, Taman Sri Nibong, 14300 Nibong Tebal
Contact details: +60163482588
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday – 7 AM to 1:30 PM
Cost: $$
Choon Din Dim Sum Restaurant feels like one of those spots you stumble upon and end up remembering for the prawn rolls alone. Seriously, those shrimp rolls are made fresh by the owner herself and hit that sweet spot between crispy and juicy.
You’ll also spot some rare items on the menu that aren’t usually seen at typical dim sum places, which makes it a fun place to explore with friends. The Liu Sha Pao deserves a mention too—it’s molten, rich, and has just the right amount of saltiness.
And while some dim sum spots may skimp on flavour, Choon Hin delivers traditional taste with a bit of a home-cooked feel. Prices are slightly higher than other local breakfast joints, but you’re getting a lot of variety here.
| Pro tip: While most come here for the morning dim sum, swing by at night and try their tom yum. It’s unexpectedly solid and makes this place more than just a breakfast stop. |
Big M Dumpling
– Media credit: lyshyan
Address: 31, Lorong Seri Impian 2, Taman Seri Impian, 14000 Bukit Mertajam
Contact details: +60182943131
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 3 PM
Cost: $$
Big M Dumpling isn’t your average dim sum stop—it’s where you go when you’re after serious flavour packed into crispy Shanghai-style buns. The Shengjianbao is the star here—golden on the bottom, soft on top, and bursting with savoury broth the second you bite in.
If you’ve never had one fresh off the pan, this is where you change that. The Shanghai pot stickers with chives and pork have a nice char and deep flavour, making them a great pick if you want something besides the usual har gow.
They keep the menu small but focused, so you’re getting quality over quantity. Do get there early though—they only make limited batches each day, and once it’s gone, that’s it.
| Pro tip: Pair your dumplings with their iced ginger bell mocktail. It’s cold, punchy, and cuts through the richness of the dim sum beautifully without overpowering it. |
Sutera Restaurant
– Media credit: sutera_restaurant
Address: 98, Lbh Armenian, George Town
Contact details: +60194179003
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 12 to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Sutera Restaurant might not be your typical dim sum joint, but if you’re looking for halal dim sum with a twist, it’s a solid choice. Their menu mixes traditional bites like siew mai and dumplings with a touch of modern flair.
The dim sum leans a bit dry for some, but the variety and quality ingredients make up for it, especially when you’re sharing a few plates with friends. What stands out here is the vibe—clean, modern, and welcoming.
If you’re the kind who enjoys pairing your dim sum with something unexpected like masak lemak or salted egg prawns, you’re in the right place. Prices are mid-range, and you’re getting attentive service in return.
| Pro tip: Skip the usual hot tea pairing and go for their longan Panna cotta after your meal. It’s light, refreshing, and a surprisingly good follow-up to a savoury dim sum spread. |
Dolly Dim Sum
– Media credit: dollydimsum
Address: LG-26 and LG-27 Sunway Carnival Mall 3068 Jalan Todak Seberang Jaya City Centre Seberang Jaya
Contact details: +60123192037
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:45 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $$$
Dolly Dim Sum brings a polished twist to your usual dim sum routine, and now that it’s finally in Penang, you’ve got no excuse to miss it. Their cheong fun is silky and light, while the Szechuan dumplings come with a kick—flavourful without being overpowering.
You’ll also find beautifully presented classics like har gao and siew mai that taste as good as they look. The space feels more like a boutique cafe than a traditional dim sum spot, which works if you’re into clean lines and a relaxed setting.
It’s halal-certified, so you can easily come with a diverse group. Service is usually attentive, and while prices lean a bit upscale, the quality and setting make it a fair trade-off.
| Pro tip: Don’t leave without trying the snowskin durian mochi—it’s not too pungent, just creamy and cool enough to round out your dim sum feast without overwhelming your palate. |
Tai Tong Restaurant
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Address: 45, Lebuh Cintra, George Town
Contact details: +60167746625
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 6:30 AM to 2 PM | 6 to 9:30 PM
Cost: $$
Tai Tong Restaurant is one of those dim sum spots that keeps things old-school, in a good way. The moment you walk in, you’ll see trolleys rolling past with steaming baskets of siew mai, har gao, and plenty of fried options.
It’s a casual, no-fuss vibe where you grab what looks good and dig in. The BBQ pork bao hits the right balance of fluffy bun and savoury filling, and their prawn porridge with bits of century egg might surprise you—it’s subtle and comforting.
While the selection isn’t as overwhelming as other spots, the classics are solid, and you’ll find a few nostalgic surprises like old-style egg tarts and fish balls. They also serve made-to-order stir-fry dishes if you want more than dim sum, but mornings are when the real action happens.
| Pro tip: If you prefer specific dum sum items like xiao long bao or unique steamed buns, go for brunch instead of early breakfast. They roll out more variety closer to mid-morning. |
Yong Pin Restaurant
– Media credit: yongpinrestaurant
Address: 59A, Kimberley Road, George Town
Contact details: +60164306789
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 6:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Cost: $
If you want a truly classic dim sum experience in Penang, Yong Pin Restaurant should be on your radar. Open since the ‘80s, this place keeps things traditional with a no-frills setup and a central station where you pick your dim sum instead of chasing trolleys.
It’s efficient, especially when you’re hungry and want to see everything at once. The steamed items are the stars here—prawn dumplings, siew mai, and soft, fluffy char siew bao that holds just the right amount of sweetness and savoury.
You’ll also find standout fried items like their deep-fried prawn rolls in beancurd skin, which are crispy without being greasy. If you’re into chee cheong fun, theirs is thin, silky, and filled generously.
| Pro tip: Skip the usual drinks and ask for their hot Chinese tea. It pairs well with the dim sum and helps cut through the richness of the fried dishes. |
Cheng Zheng Dim Sum
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Address: 76, Lebuh Campbell, George Town
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $
Cheng Zheng Dim Sum stands out with its mix of nostalgia and modern comfort. Located in a heritage shophouse on Lebuh Campbell, this place gives you an old-school Penang vibe while keeping things clean and comfortable with air-conditioning.
The dim sum here leans on quality over quantity—everything is made fresh, and you can taste that in their shrimp dumplings, which are surprisingly juicy and packed with flavour. If you’re into something unique, try their lava egg buns—soft, warm, and rich with salted egg filling that hits just right.
Their aubergine dim sum is another sleeper hit you might not find elsewhere. While their lo pak ko and char siew pau weren’t piping hot on a busy day, the overall experience and service still made it worth the wait.
| Pro tip: Try visiting on a weekday morning instead of the weekend. It’s quieter, and your dim sum will likely arrive hotter and fresher. |
Zim Sum Restaurant
– Media credit: buttermeup66
Address: 62, Macalister Street, 10400 George Town
Contact details: +60124609282
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Sunday – 6:30 AM to 1:30 PM
Cost: $$
Zim Sum Restaurant is one of those places where the early bird gets the best bite. They open early, so if you’re hunting for dim sum before the city wakes up, this is your spot!
The vibe is casual and loud in a good way—you’ll see locals pointing at trays and loading up their tables like it’s Sunday brunch, even if it’s Wednesday. It’s all self-service, so you can go out at your own pace and just grab what looks good.
Their variety is probably one of the best in town. From bacon dim sum that’s unbelievably juicy to giant portions of porridge and bee hon, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
| Pro tip: Grab a seat first before heading to the self-service counters. This place gets packed, and you don’t want to juggle hot plates while scouting for a table. |