food · 5 May 2026

Guangzhou Dim Sum: The Tradition Behind Yum Cha

Guangzhou is the origin point of the dim sum tradition. This guide explains the yum cha ritual, the classic dishes, the timing, and how to order in a Guangzhou teahouse without feeling lost.

Yum cha (飲茶) is a Guangzhou institution. It happens from 6–7 a.m. through early afternoon. The tea comes first — pu-er, chrysanthemum, or tieguanyin — and the teapot is refilled throughout. Leaving the lid askew signals a refill needed; tapping two fingers on the table thanks the pourer.

Classic dishes: har gau (steamed prawn dumplings in translucent skin), siu mai (open-topped pork and prawn dumplings), char siu bao (steamed or baked barbecued pork buns), cheung fun (rice noodle rolls with prawn or beef), lo mai gai (sticky rice in lotus leaf), and dan tat (flaky egg custard tart).

Traditional teahouses use trolleys; newer ones use paper order forms. A table of four will order 8–12 dishes over 1–3 hours.

Reliable venues: Lianxianglou (century-old pastry and dim sum institution), Guangzhou Restaurant (mainstream Guangzhou family yum cha experience), Panxi Restaurant (classical garden setting).