Discover the Top 10 Best Dim Sum Restaurants in San Jose for an Unforgettable Culinary Experience

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Discover the best dim sum in San Jose! From steamed buns to dumplings, these top-rated restaurants offer delicious and authentic Chinese cuisine.


San Jose is a city that is known for its diverse culinary scene, and one of the most popular dishes in the area is dim sum. Dim sum is a type of Chinese cuisine that consists of small portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates. It is often enjoyed as a brunch or lunch meal and is typically served with tea. If you're looking for the best dim sum in San Jose, you'll be happy to know that there are many great options to choose from. Here are some of the top dim sum restaurants in the area.

First on the list is ABC Seafood, which is known for its fresh and delicious dim sum dishes. This restaurant has been a favorite among locals for many years and is always a popular spot on weekends. The menu at ABC Seafood features a wide variety of dim sum options, including steamed buns, dumplings, and rice rolls. One of the standout dishes is the har gow, which is a type of shrimp dumpling that is steamed to perfection.

If you're looking for a more upscale dim sum experience, you might want to check out Koi Palace. This restaurant is located in nearby Daly City but is well worth the drive. Koi Palace is known for its high-quality ingredients and attention to detail, which is evident in every dish. Some of the must-try items on the menu include the siu mai, which is a type of pork dumpling, and the cha siu bao, which is a steamed bun filled with barbecue pork.

Another great option for dim sum in San Jose is Joy Luck Place. This restaurant is located in the heart of downtown and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. The dim sum at Joy Luck Place is known for its delicate flavors and beautiful presentation. Some of the standout dishes include the turnip cake, which is a savory dish made with shredded turnip and rice flour, and the egg tarts, which are a sweet pastry filled with custard.

If you're looking for a more traditional dim sum experience, you might want to check out Mayflower Restaurant. This restaurant has been serving up authentic Cantonese cuisine for over 30 years and is a favorite among locals. The dim sum at Mayflower is made fresh daily and features a wide variety of dishes. Some of the most popular items include the pork siu mai, the shrimp har gow, and the beef tripe.

For those who prefer a vegetarian or vegan diet, there are also great options for dim sum in San Jose. Garden Fresh is a restaurant that specializes in vegetarian and vegan Chinese cuisine, and their dim sum menu is no exception. Some of the standout dishes include the vegetarian dumplings, the steamed buns filled with vegetables, and the tofu skin rolls.

If you're in the mood for some unique and creative dim sum dishes, you might want to check out Dynasty Seafood Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its innovative take on traditional dim sum dishes, such as the lobster dumplings and the truffle shumai. The presentation of the dishes is also impressive, with many of them resembling works of art.

No matter what your preferences are when it comes to dim sum, there is no shortage of great options in San Jose. Whether you're looking for a quick and casual meal or a more upscale dining experience, you are sure to find something that satisfies your cravings. So go ahead and explore the world of dim sum in San Jose – your taste buds will thank you!


The Best Dim Sum in San Jose

When it comes to finding the best dim sum in San Jose, there are plenty of options to choose from. From traditional Cantonese dishes to modern twists on classic favorites, San Jose has it all. Here are ten places you can go to satisfy your dim sum cravings.

1. Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Located in the heart of San Jose's Chinatown, Dynasty Seafood Restaurant is a local favorite for dim sum. They offer an extensive menu of traditional Cantonese dishes, including steamed shrimp dumplings, BBQ pork buns, and egg tarts. The restaurant has a spacious dining area that can accommodate large groups, making it a great spot for family gatherings or celebrations.

2. Koi Palace

Koi Palace is a popular dim sum spot with several locations throughout the Bay Area, including one in Milpitas. The restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and meticulously crafted dishes. Some of their most popular dim sum items include the siu mai, har gow, and custard buns. Be prepared to wait in line, as Koi Palace is often crowded on weekends.

3. Mayflower Seafood Restaurant

Mayflower Seafood Restaurant is a hidden gem located in a strip mall in Milpitas. Despite its unassuming exterior, the restaurant serves up some of the best dim sum in the area. Their har gow and cheong fun (rice noodle rolls) are particularly noteworthy. The prices are also very reasonable, making this a great spot for budget-conscious diners.

4. ABC Seafood Restaurant

ABC Seafood Restaurant is a no-frills spot in the East San Jose neighborhood. The restaurant serves up traditional dim sum dishes like steamed pork ribs and chicken feet, as well as more modern offerings like taro puffs and fried turnip cakes. The prices are very reasonable, making this a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

5. Dim Sum King

Dim Sum King is a small restaurant located in the Cambrian Park neighborhood. Despite its size, the restaurant offers an extensive menu of dim sum dishes, including vegetarian options. Their shrimp dumplings and pan-fried turnip cakes are particularly popular. The prices are also very reasonable, making this a great spot for a quick and affordable meal.

6. Hong Kong Saigon Seafood Harbor Restaurant

Hong Kong Saigon Seafood Harbor Restaurant is a large, upscale restaurant with a spacious dining area and elegant decor. The restaurant serves up traditional Cantonese dishes, including some of the best dim sum in the area. Their xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and cha siu bao (BBQ pork buns) are particularly noteworthy. Be prepared to pay a bit more for the upscale atmosphere and high-quality ingredients.

7. Joy Luck Place

Joy Luck Place is a casual restaurant located in the Evergreen neighborhood. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of dim sum dishes, including vegetarian options. Their shrimp dumplings and BBQ pork buns are particularly popular. The prices are very reasonable, making this a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

8. Moonstar Restaurant

Moonstar Restaurant is a popular dim sum spot with several locations throughout the Bay Area, including one in Daly City. The restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and meticulously crafted dishes. Some of their most popular dim sum items include the siu mai, har gow, and custard buns. Be prepared to wait in line, as Moonstar is often crowded on weekends.

9. Shanghai Flavor Shop

Shanghai Flavor Shop is a small, unassuming restaurant located in the Berryessa neighborhood. The restaurant serves up traditional Shanghai-style dishes, including some of the best soup dumplings in the area. Their pan-fried pork buns and scallion pancakes are also noteworthy. The prices are very reasonable, making this a great spot for a quick and affordable meal.

10. Tai Pan Dim Sum Bakery

Tai Pan Dim Sum Bakery is a bakery and restaurant located in the Evergreen neighborhood. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of dim sum dishes, including vegetarian options. Their shrimp dumplings and BBQ pork buns are particularly popular. The prices are very reasonable, and the bakery also offers a selection of Chinese pastries and desserts to take home.

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Dim Sum in San Jose

San Jose is a city with a rich cultural heritage and an impressive food scene. Among the many cuisines that thrive in this part of California, dim sum stands out as a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This Chinese meal of small plates served in bamboo baskets has become a staple in the Bay Area, attracting foodies who crave its delicate flavors, diverse ingredients, and communal dining experience.If you're looking for the best dim sum in San Jose, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll show you how to identify quality dim sum, where to find authentic dishes, the most popular spots for foodies, the best restaurants for families, and hidden gems that offer underrated options. We'll also introduce you to exotic dim sum varieties to try and provide tips on ordering dim sum for delivery.

How to Identify Quality Dim Sum in San Jose

Before we dive into the top dim sum places in San Jose, let's talk about what makes a good dim sum dish. First and foremost, the freshness of the ingredients is crucial. Look for steaming hot baskets that are brought to your table right after they're cooked. The skin of the dumplings should be thin and translucent, indicating that they're not overcooked or too thick.Another sign of quality dim sum is the filling. Whether it's pork, shrimp, chicken, beef, or vegetables, the filling should be flavorful, well-seasoned, and balanced. It's also important to pay attention to the texture of the dumplings. They should be soft and chewy without being mushy or dry.Finally, the sauce or dipping condiment can make or break a dim sum dish. A good soy sauce or chili oil can enhance the flavors and complement the ingredients. Some restaurants also offer homemade sauces that add a unique twist to the traditional dim sum experience.

Dim Sum Heaven: Top Picks for San Jose Foodies

Now that you know what to look for in quality dim sum, let's explore the top picks for San Jose foodies. These restaurants have earned a reputation for their exceptional dishes, attentive service, and cozy ambiance.One of the most popular spots for dim sum in San Jose is Dynasty Seafood Restaurant, located in the Eastridge Mall. This upscale restaurant offers a wide range of dim sum options, including steamed buns, dumplings, rice rolls, and more. The must-try dishes at Dynasty include the xiao long bao (soup dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), and char siu bao (BBQ pork buns). The restaurant also has a selection of vegetarian and gluten-free dim sum for those with dietary restrictions.Another favorite among foodies is Koi Palace, which has two locations in Daly City and Milpitas. This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its exquisite dim sum, which features premium ingredients such as abalone, lobster, and truffles. The menu includes classic dim sum dishes as well as creative delights like the deep-fried taro puff with diced chicken and dried shrimp. Be prepared to wait in line for a table, especially during peak hours, as Koi Palace is always packed with diners eager to taste the best dim sum in the Bay Area.If you're looking for a more casual and affordable option, head to Mayflower Seafood Restaurant in Milpitas. This family-owned eatery has been serving delicious dim sum for over 30 years, earning a loyal following among locals. Their dim sum menu features over 60 items, ranging from steamed and fried dumplings to congee and noodle soups. The standout dishes at Mayflower include the crispy taro cake, the pan-fried turnip cake, and the sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf. Don't forget to try their homemade chili sauce for an extra kick of flavor.

Where to Find Authentic Dim Sum in San Jose

For those who want to experience the authentic flavors of dim sum, there are several restaurants in San Jose that specialize in regional Chinese cuisine. These establishments offer a glimpse into the diverse culinary traditions of China, from Cantonese to Szechuan.One such restaurant is ABC Seafood, located in the Westfield Oakridge Mall. This unassuming eatery may not have the fanciest decor, but it makes up for it with its authentic dim sum dishes. ABC Seafood is known for its Hong Kong-style dim sum, which includes classic items like siu mai (pork dumplings), cheung fun (rice noodle rolls), and lo mai gai (sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf). The dim sum here is made fresh daily, ensuring that you get the best quality possible.Another place to try authentic dim sum is Joy Luck Place in Cupertino. This family-owned restaurant has been serving traditional Cantonese cuisine since 1992, earning a reputation for its fresh ingredients and homemade sauces. Their dim sum menu features over 60 items, including steamed and fried dumplings, barbecue pork buns, and egg tarts. The standout dishes at Joy Luck Place include the crispy shrimp balls, the stuffed eggplant with shrimp paste, and the savory turnip cake.If you're in the mood for some spicy Szechuan-style dim sum, head to China Delight in Sunnyvale. This restaurant specializes in the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine, using ingredients such as chili peppers, garlic, and Szechuan peppercorns. Their dim sum menu includes dishes like the spicy dan dan noodles, the fiery wontons in chili oil, and the steamed pork buns with spicy meat filling. China Delight also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options for those who prefer plant-based cuisine.

The Most Popular Dim Sum Spots in San Jose

When it comes to dim sum, some restaurants have gained a cult following over the years, attracting diners from all over the Bay Area. These popular spots are known for their consistent quality, generous portions, and lively atmosphere.One of the most beloved dim sum places in San Jose is Din Tai Fung, located in the Westfield Valley Fair Mall. This Taiwanese chain restaurant has become famous for its xiao long bao, or soup dumplings, which are made with thin skin and a savory broth inside. Din Tai Fung also offers a variety of other dim sum dishes, such as shumai (pork dumplings), jidantangbao (custard-filled buns), and shao mai (steamed chicken dumplings). The restaurant has an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs prepare your food, adding to the fun and interactive dining experience.Another popular spot for dim sum is Hong Kong Saigon Seafood Harbor Restaurant in Milpitas. This spacious restaurant can accommodate large groups and families, making it a great choice for gatherings. Their dim sum menu features classic dishes like har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and cha siu bao (BBQ pork buns), as well as more unusual items like the deep-fried taro croquette and the crispy squid tentacles. The prices at Hong Kong Saigon Seafood are reasonable, making it an affordable option for dim sum lovers.If you're looking for a more upscale and refined dim sum experience, check out Crystal Jade Jiang Nan in Santa Clara. This elegant restaurant specializes in the cuisine of the Jiangnan region of China, which includes Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Suzhou. Their dim sum menu features a wide range of dishes, from the classic xiao long bao to the inventive truffle chicken dumplings. The presentation of the dishes is also noteworthy, with delicate garnishes and beautiful plating. Crystal Jade Jiang Nan also has a selection of premium teas to pair with your dim sum, elevating the dining experience even further.

The Best Dim Sum Restaurants in San Jose for Families

If you're dining with kids, it's important to find a dim sum restaurant that caters to families. These restaurants offer a welcoming and kid-friendly atmosphere, as well as a variety of dishes that appeal to all ages.One such restaurant is Jade Palace Seafood Restaurant in San Jose, which has been serving dim sum since 1984. This spacious eatery can accommodate large groups and families, with plenty of high chairs and booster seats available. Their dim sum menu features classic items like siu mai (pork dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), and cha siu bao (BBQ pork buns), as well as more unusual dishes like the steamed rice noodle roll with beef and cilantro. Jade Palace Seafood also has a section of the menu dedicated to vegetarian dim sum, making it a great option for families with different dietary needs.Another family-friendly dim sum spot is Joyful House in Cupertino. This cozy restaurant has a warm and inviting ambiance, with friendly staff and attentive service. Their dim sum menu features over 50 items, ranging from steamed and fried dumplings to congee and noodle soups. The standout dishes at Joyful House include the pan-fried turnip cake, the crispy taro puff, and the sesame balls filled with red bean paste. The restaurant also offers a children's menu with smaller portions of dim sum favorites, making it easy to satisfy picky eaters.For a more casual and fun dim sum experience, try Dragon Beaux in San Francisco. This modern restaurant has a playful decor and a creative menu that appeals to both kids and adults. Their dim sum dishes come in colorful presentations, with cute shapes and designs that will delight children. The menu includes items like the piggy BBQ pork buns, the panda shrimp dumplings, and the Hello Kitty custard buns. Dragon Beaux also has a play area for kids, making it a great place for families to enjoy dim sum together.

Hidden Gems: Underrated Dim Sum Places in San Jose

While some dim sum restaurants are well-known and popular, others are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These underrated places offer exceptional quality and value, without the crowds and hype of the more famous spots.One such restaurant is New Port Restaurant in San Jose, which has been serving dim sum since 1996. This small and unassuming eatery may not look like much, but its dim sum dishes are top-notch. The restaurant uses fresh and high-quality ingredients, creating flavorful and satisfying dishes. Their dim sum menu includes classics like har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf. The prices at New Port Restaurant are also very reasonable, making it a great option for those on a budget.Another hidden gem for dim sum is Dim Sum King in Santa Clara. This no-frills restaurant has a simple decor and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal. Their dim sum menu features a variety of dishes, from the classic shumai and cha siu bao to the more unusual black truffle siu mai and crispy taro puff with duck filling. The portions are generous and the prices are affordable, making Dim Sum King a great value for the quality of food.If you're in the mood for some fusion dim sum, head to Bamboo Asia in San Francisco. This fast-casual restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional dim sum, using global flavors and ingredients. Their dim sum menu includes items like the Japanese pork gyoza, the Vietnamese spring rolls with shrimp and pork, and the Korean BBQ beef bao. Bamboo Asia also has a selection of healthy options, such as the vegan dumplings and the gluten-free rice paper wraps. The restaurant is perfect for a quick lunch or a grab-and-go meal.

The Best Dim Sum Brunch Places in San Jose

Dim sum is not just a lunch or dinner option – it's also a popular brunch item. Many restaurants in San Jose offer dim sum brunch on weekends, allowing diners to enjoy a leisurely and satisfying meal.One of the best dim sum brunch places in San Jose is Chef Chu's in Los Altos. This iconic restaurant has been serving Chinese cuisine since 1970, earning a loyal following among locals and celebrities alike. Their dim sum brunch is served on weekends from 11am to 2:30pm, featuring classic dishes like har gow (shrimp dumplings), siu mai (pork dumplings), and cha siu bao (BBQ pork buns). Chef Chu's also offers a variety of other brunch items, such as eggs Benedict, French toast, and dim sum-inspired cocktails.Another great dim sum brunch spot is Hong Kong Lounge in San Francisco. This elegant restaurant has a spacious dining room and a refined ambiance, making it perfect for a special occasion. Their dim sum brunch is served daily from 10am to 3pm, offering a wide range of dishes that showcase the creativity and skill of the chefs. The must-try items at Hong Kong Lounge include the truffle shiu mai, the pan-fried turnip cake with XO sauce, and the salted egg yolk custard bun. The restaurant also has a selection of premium teas to pair with your dim sum brunch.If you're looking for a more casual and affordable dim sum brunch, head to Hong Kong Dim Sum in San Jose. This small and cozy eatery offers a variety of dim sum dishes, ranging from the classic siu mai and har gow to the more unusual chicken feet and tripe. The dim sum brunch is served on weekends from 9am to 3pm, making it a great option for early birds. Hong Kong Dim Sum also has a selection of Chinese congee and noodle soups, perfect for a hearty brunch.

Exotic Dim Sum Varieties to Try in San Jose

If you're a seasoned dim sum lover looking for something new and exciting, San Jose has plenty of exotic options to satisfy your cravings. These dim sum varieties use unusual ingredients and flavors, adding a unique twist to the traditional dishes.One such variety is the durian mochi, which can be found at Fuki Sushi in Palo Alto. This Japanese restaurant offers a creative take on dim sum, using fresh and premium ingredients. The durian mochi is a sweet and sticky rice cake filled with creamy and pungent durian fruit, a delicacy in Southeast Asia. It's a must-try for adventurous eaters who want to explore the world of dim sum beyond the usual dumplings and buns.Another exotic dim sum dish is

The Best Dim Sum in San Jose: A Foodie's Point of View

Introduction

San Jose is known for its diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to dim sum, there are plenty of options to choose from. As a foodie who has sampled many dishes from various dim sum restaurants in the area, I have a strong opinion on which ones are the best. In this article, I will share my point of view on the best dim sum in San Jose, as well as the pros and cons of each restaurant.

Restaurant 1: Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung is a chain restaurant that originated in Taiwan and has since expanded globally. It has gained a reputation for its high-quality dumplings and other dim sum dishes. Here are the pros and cons:

  • Pros:
    • High-quality ingredients
    • Consistent taste and texture
    • Great service
  • Cons:
    • Expensive compared to other dim sum restaurants in the area
    • Long wait times during peak hours

Restaurant 2: Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Dynasty Seafood Restaurant is a popular spot among locals for its traditional Cantonese-style dim sum. Here are the pros and cons:

  • Pros:
    • Large variety of dishes to choose from
    • Reasonably priced
    • Freshly made dishes
  • Cons:
    • Service can be slow during peak hours
    • Some dishes may not have as much flavor as others

Restaurant 3: Koi Palace

Koi Palace is another popular spot for dim sum in San Jose, known for its high-quality ingredients and creative dishes. Here are the pros and cons:

  • Pros:
    • High-quality ingredients
    • Creative dishes that are not found at other dim sum restaurants
    • Large seating area with plenty of tables
  • Cons:
    • Expensive compared to other dim sum restaurants in the area
    • Long wait times during peak hours

Comparison Table

Here is a table comparing the three restaurants based on their pros and cons:

Din Tai Fung Dynasty Seafood Restaurant Koi Palace
Pros High-quality ingredients
Consistent taste and texture
Great service		 Large variety of dishes to choose from
Reasonably priced
Freshly made dishes		 High-quality ingredients
Creative dishes that are not found at other dim sum restaurants
Large seating area with plenty of tables
Cons Expensive compared to other dim sum restaurants in the area
Long wait times during peak hours		 Service can be slow during peak hours
Some dishes may not have as much flavor as others		 Expensive compared to other dim sum restaurants in the area
Long wait times during peak hours

Conclusion

Overall, each of these dim sum restaurants has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Din Tai Fung is great for high-quality dumplings and consistent taste, but it comes with a higher price tag and long wait times. Dynasty Seafood Restaurant offers a large variety of dishes at a reasonable price, but service can be slow during peak hours. Koi Palace has creative dishes and a large seating area, but it's also expensive and has long wait times. Ultimately, it depends on what you prioritize in a dim sum restaurant – quality, variety, price, or something else entirely.


Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to read our article about the best dim sum restaurants in San Jose. We hope this guide has helped you discover new and exciting places to enjoy this traditional Chinese cuisine.Dim sum is a unique dining experience that provides a variety of bite-sized dishes for sharing with friends and family. With so many options available in San Jose, it can be challenging to choose where to go.We have highlighted some of the top-rated dim sum restaurants in the area, each with its own unique menu and ambiance. Whether you are looking for a casual brunch spot or an upscale dining experience, there is something for everyone on this list.One of the most popular spots for dim sum in San Jose is Dynasty Seafood Restaurant. This restaurant offers an extensive menu of classic and contemporary dim sum dishes, all expertly prepared by their skilled chefs. The elegant décor and attentive service make it a great choice for special occasions or business meetings.Another great option is Koi Palace, a well-known Bay Area restaurant that has received numerous awards for its dim sum. Their menu features a wide range of steamed, fried, and baked dishes that are sure to please any palate. The modern, spacious setting is perfect for large groups or families.If you are looking for a more casual atmosphere, try Mayflower Seafood Restaurant. This restaurant offers a comfortable, family-friendly environment and a menu full of classic dim sum dishes. Their prices are very reasonable, making it a great option for those on a budget.For those who prefer vegetarian or vegan options, Garden Fresh Restaurant is a must-visit. This restaurant specializes in plant-based dim sum dishes that are both delicious and healthy. Their menu includes items such as dumplings, buns, and veggie rolls.No matter which restaurant you choose, be sure to arrive early to avoid long wait times. Dim sum is a popular meal, and many places can get crowded quickly.In conclusion, San Jose has some of the best dim sum restaurants in the Bay Area. From traditional to modern, there is something for every taste and budget. We hope this guide has helped you discover new favorites and given you a better understanding of what to expect when dining out for dim sum.Thank you again for reading, and bon appétit!

People Also Ask About Best Dim Sum San Jose

What is Dim Sum?

Dim Sum is a traditional Chinese cuisine that involves small, bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets or on small plates. It is commonly enjoyed during breakfast or lunchtime and is typically served with tea.

Where can I find the best Dim Sum in San Jose?

San Jose has a diverse selection of Dim Sum restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the best:

  1. Din Tai Fung

    Din Tai Fung is known for its delicious dumplings and steamed buns. Their menu features a variety of classic dim sum dishes, including shrimp dumplings, pork buns, and sticky rice in lotus leaf.

  2. Koi Palace

    Koi Palace is a popular dim sum spot that serves up both traditional and modern dishes. Their menu includes items like crystal shrimp dumplings, pan-fried turnip cake, and steamed pork spare ribs.

  3. Mayflower Seafood Restaurant

    Mayflower Seafood Restaurant is a casual eatery that offers an extensive dim sum menu. Some of their most popular dishes include siu mai (pork dumplings), har gow (shrimp dumplings), and egg tarts.

  4. ABC Seafood Restaurant

    ABC Seafood Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant that serves up fresh and tasty dim sum. Their menu features items like BBQ pork buns, stuffed eggplant, and pan-fried chive dumplings.

Is Dim Sum healthy?

Dim Sum can be a healthy option, as long as you choose steamed or boiled dishes over fried ones. Stick to items like steamed dumplings, buns, and vegetables, and avoid deep-fried foods like spring rolls and fried wontons.