If you’ve been searching for “What is dim sum?” or “dim sum near me,” you’re not alone. For many first-time guests, dim sum is one of those menu terms they’ve heard before but aren’t quite sure how to order.
At its heart, dim sum is all about sharing. Rather than ordering one large entrée, the table enjoys a variety of small plates filled with different flavors, textures, and cooking styles. It’s one of the most enjoyable ways to experience Chinese cuisine—and at Ugly Dumpling, we’ve put our own modern spin on this centuries-old tradition.
Whether you’re new to dim sum or simply looking for your next favorite dish, here’s everything you need to know before your first visit.
What Is Dim Sum?
Dim sum is a traditional Chinese dining style that features a variety of small, shareable dishes served throughout the meal. Instead of ordering one main course, guests select several plates to enjoy together, creating a meal that’s as much about conversation and discovery as it is about the food itself.
The tradition originated in southern China, where travelers would stop at teahouses along busy trade routes to enjoy tea and small bites before continuing their journey. Over time, those small dishes evolved into the diverse dim sum menus enjoyed around the world today.
Today, dim sum includes everything from steamed dumplings and bao buns to shumai, wontons, vegetables, and crispy appetizers.
At Ugly Dumpling, we honor that tradition while adding bold, Shanghai-inspired flavors and handcrafted recipes made fresh every day.
What Does “Dim Sum” Mean?
The phrase dim sum (點心) literally translates to “touch the heart.”
Rather than referring to one specific dish, it describes a collection of small plates meant to satisfy the appetite without being overly heavy. It’s a meal built around sampling, sharing, and enjoying a variety of flavors with family and friends.
That’s exactly how we encourage guests to experience the Ugly Dumpling menu.
What Should You Order?
If it’s your first dim sum experience, start with a variety of textures and flavors instead of ordering just one dish.
Our favorite combination includes:
Steamed BBQ Pork Buns
Soft, fluffy bao buns filled with sweet and savory barbecue pork. They’re one of the most recognizable dim sum classics and a perfect introduction for first-time guests.
Pork & Shrimp Shumai
A traditional open-faced dumpling featuring seasoned pork and shrimp. Shumai is one of the most popular dim sum dishes around the world and a must-try for anyone exploring the menu.
Crystal Shrimp Dumplings
Delicate translucent wrappers filled with tender shrimp create one of the most elegant dishes on the menu.
Chicken Dumplings
Simple, comforting, and full of flavor, these handcrafted dumplings are a great option for guests looking for a classic bite.
Cream Cheese Rangoon
Golden and crispy with a creamy filling, these are perfect for sharing and one of our most popular appetizers.
Spicy Chicken Wontons
Silky wontons tossed in our signature chili oil offer just the right amount of heat and pair beautifully with steamed dim sum dishes.
Garlic String Beans
Every great dim sum meal benefits from something fresh. Our wok-fired garlic string beans add balance to the table.
Cucumber Salad
Cool, crisp, and refreshing, this light salad provides the perfect contrast to richer dishes.
To complete the experience, pair your dim sum with our handcrafted Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings), made fresh daily in our Bao Lab, and finish with a Fortune Cookie Cheesecake or Brown Sugar Boba.
How to Enjoy Dim Sum
There’s no wrong way to enjoy dim sum, but these simple tips will help you get the most from your meal.
Order several dishes to share. Dim sum is meant to be experienced together, so choose a variety of plates for everyone at the table.
Mix different cooking styles. Try steamed dumplings, crispy appetizers, fresh vegetables, and something with a little spice for the best balance.
Start with lighter dishes. Begin with steamed items before moving to fried dishes and richer flavors.
Take your time. Dim sum isn’t a rushed meal. It’s designed to encourage conversation, sharing, and discovering new favorites together.
Why People Love Dim Sum
Part of what makes dim sum so special is that every meal is a little different.
Instead of committing to one entrée, everyone at the table gets to sample a variety of dishes, making it perfect for families, date nights, celebrations, and groups of friends.
That spirit of sharing is at the heart of Ugly Dumpling. Every handcrafted dish is designed to bring people together over bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and memorable experiences.
Looking for Dim Sum Near You?
Ugly Dumpling brings handcrafted dim sum, Xiao Long Bao, wontons, and Shanghai-inspired favorites to communities across the East Coast.
Whether you’re dining in, ordering takeout, or enjoying delivery at home, our menu makes it easy to experience authentic dim sum wherever you are.
Visit our Locations page to find the Ugly Dumpling nearest you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dim sum?
Dim sum is a traditional Chinese dining style made up of small, shareable dishes that are ordered together and enjoyed around the table. Rather than one large entrée, guests sample a variety of steamed, fried, and baked dishes.
Is dim sum the same as dumplings?
No. Dumplings are one type of dim sum, but dim sum also includes bao buns, shumai, vegetables, wontons, appetizers, desserts, and many other small plates.
What should I order for my first dim sum meal?
Start with Steamed BBQ Pork Buns, Pork & Shrimp Shumai, Crystal Shrimp Dumplings, Spicy Chicken Wontons, Garlic String Beans, and a basket of Xiao Long Bao for the full Ugly Dumpling experience.
Is dim sum meant to be shared?
Yes. Sharing is one of the defining characteristics of dim sum. Ordering several small plates allows everyone at the table to experience a wider variety of flavors and textures.
Where can I enjoy Ugly Dumpling dim sum?
Ugly Dumpling serves handcrafted dim sum, soup dumplings, wontons, and more at locations across the East Coast. Visit our Locations page to find a restaurant near you.
