If you’ve been searching for dim sum near me — or you keep seeing “dim sum” on the Ugly Dumpling menu and wondering what it actually means — this guide is for you. Dim sum is one of the most fun, social, and beginner-friendly ways to eat Asian food, and at Ugly Dumpling we’ve built our version around bold, fresh, made-daily flavors that feel both familiar and exciting.
Here’s everything you need to know before your first bite: what dim sum is, what to order at Ugly Dumpling, how to eat it, and why it’s the perfect meal to share.
What Is Dim Sum?
Dim sum is a style of eating, not a single dish. The phrase traditionally refers to a wide range of small, bite-sized plates — steamed, fried, or baked — meant to be ordered in variety and shared around the table. Think of it as the Asian answer to tapas: lots of little dishes, lots of flavors, and a meal built on tasting a bit of everything.
At Ugly Dumpling, dim sum sits right alongside our hand-crafted soup dumplings and wontons as one of the three pillars of the menu. Every plate is designed to be affordable, accessible, and made for sharing — exactly the way dim sum was always meant to be enjoyed.
What to Order: Dim Sum at Ugly Dumpling
Not sure where to start? These crowd favorites are a great first order, especially if you’re new to dim sum or visiting Ugly Dumpling for the first time.
Steamed BBQ Pork Buns
Soft, pillowy buns filled with sweet-and-savory barbecue pork. They’re one of the most beloved dim sum classics anywhere, and they’re a perfect introduction if you want something comforting and approachable.
Cream Cheese Rangoon
Crispy on the outside, rich and creamy on the inside. Rangoon is a fan favorite for a reason — it’s the kind of shareable bite that disappears from the table fast.
Spicy Chicken Wontons
Delicate wontons with a kick. If you like a little heat, these deliver bold flavor without overwhelming the dish, and they pair beautifully with our soup dumplings.
Soy Garlic Wings
Juicy wings coated in a glossy soy-garlic glaze. They’re savory, slightly sticky, and exactly the kind of plate you want in the middle of a shared spread.
Garlic String Beans
A fresh, crisp, garlicky vegetable plate that balances out the richer dishes. Ordering at least one veggie option is part of building a great dim sum table.
Cucumber Salad
Cool, refreshing, and lightly dressed — the perfect palate cleanser between the warm, savory plates.
Want to go further? Pair your dim sum with our hand-crafted XLB soup dumplings, made fresh daily in our Bao Lab, and finish with a Fortune Cookie Cheesecake or a Bubble Tea.
How to Eat Dim Sum (The Right Way)
There’s no single “correct” way to enjoy dim sum — but a few simple tips make the experience even better:
Order to share. Dim sum is built around variety. Instead of one big plate each, order several small dishes for the whole table and pass everything around.
Mix textures and flavors. Aim for a balance — something steamed, something fried, something with heat, and at least one vegetable. The contrast is what makes the meal feel complete.
Start light, build up. Begin with steamed and fresh items, then move into the richer, fried, and saucier plates as you go.
Don’t rush. Dim sum is as much about the company as the food. Take your time, talk, and order more as you go.
Save room for dessert. Our Fortune Cookie Cheesecake is the ideal sweet ending to a savory, shareable meal.
Why Dim Sum Is Perfect for Groups
Dim sum is one of the best meals to share with friends, family, or coworkers. Because everything comes in small, shareable portions, everyone gets to taste a little of everything — no one is locked into a single dish. It’s relaxed, interactive, and great for picky eaters and adventurous eaters alike.
That’s exactly the kind of experience Ugly Dumpling is designed for: bold, elevated flavors in a space built for connection and discovery. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a catch-up dinner, or a group celebration, a dim sum spread brings everyone to the table.
Dim Sum Near You: Find an Ugly Dumpling Location
Ugly Dumpling is growing across the Northeast and beyond, with locations in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Virginia, and Maryland — and more on the way. If you’ve been searching for dim sum near you, there’s a good chance there’s an Ugly Dumpling close by.
You can dine in, order takeout, or get delivery — so you can enjoy our dim sum however works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dim sum?
Dim sum is a style of eating made up of small, shareable plates — steamed, fried, and baked — meant to be ordered in variety and enjoyed together. At Ugly Dumpling, it’s one of the core parts of the menu, alongside soup dumplings and wontons.
What should I order for my first dim sum experience?
Start with crowd favorites like Steamed BBQ Pork Buns, Cream Cheese Rangoon, and Spicy Chicken Wontons, then add a vegetable plate like Garlic String Beans. Pair it all with our soup dumplings for the full experience.
Is dim sum good for sharing?
Yes — dim sum is built for sharing. Small portions mean everyone at the table can taste a little of everything, which makes it ideal for groups, families, and friends.
Where can I get Ugly Dumpling dim sum?
Ugly Dumpling has locations across the Northeast and beyond, with options to dine in, take out, or order delivery. Check our locations page to find the spot nearest you.