Gather your friends and family, put on those elastic-waisted pants and get ready to dive chopsticks-first into Melbourne’s yum cha scene!
We’re here to spill the tea (geddit?) on where the dumplings are juicy, the soy and chilli are flowing, and the vibes are as vibrant as a bustling Hong Kong street market.
From the traditional trolley dances of Golden Dragon Palace to the chic, modern twists of Oriental Teahouse, there’s a whole world of bamboo steamers waiting to be uncovered.
Where To Find Melbourne’s Top Yum Cha
1. David’s, Prahran
David’s in Prahran is not your typical yum cha destination. Here, the spotlight shines on the rich and heartwarming flavours of Shanghainese cuisine, offering a unique twist on the traditional yum cha experience.
It’s a hit for families, with a cosy atmosphere, high chairs, and dishes that cater to all ages. Their Weekend Unlimited Yum Cha Feast includes everything from Veggie San Choi Bao to the sumptuous Shanghai Xiao Long Bao and Prawn & Pork Shu Mai.
Make sure you try their signature dessert, White Chocolate Dumplings, a crowd favourite especially for the kids.
David’s, 4 Cecil Place, Prahran VIC 3181, (03) 9529 5199
2. Golden Dragon Palace, Templestowe
Golden Dragon Palace stands as a pinnacle of traditional Cantonese yum cha in Melbourne. This place is an extravaganza for all of the senses, celebrated for its lavish decor, which sets a grand stage for an authentic yum cha experience.
The menu offers an extensive array of over 100 dishes. We recommend their juicy prawn dumplings, their distinctive Cheong fun, and the richly flavoured Sui mai with XO sauce.
It’s bustling, so make sure to book ahead, especially for large family gatherings. They’re also pretty accommodating with kids, offering a spacious setting.
Golden Dragon Palace, 363 Manningham Rd, Templestowe VIC 3107, (03) 9852 4087
3. Secret Kitchen, Melbourne & Doncaster
Secret Kitchen, with its impressive aquarium and dedication to fresh seafood, has become a favourite for Cantonese cuisine lovers. It’s particularly notable for its lavish two-story setup and red lantern ambience.
The menu shines with specialties like black truffle prawn dumplings and scallop Cheong fun, offering a modern twist on traditional fare. For dessert, the fried durian puffs are a must-try.
While the setting is grand, it maintains a welcoming atmosphere for families, with high chairs available for the little ones.
Secret Kitchen Chinatown, 222 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9988 7778
Secret Kitchen Doncaster, Shop L2-2003, 619 Doncaster Road, Doncaster VIC 3108 (03) 9840 2248
4. Shark Fin Inn, Melbourne
Shark Fin Inn, a Melbourne yum cha institution, is known for its retro feel and consistent quality. It’s a Melbourne staple for traditional yum cha dishes like chicken feet and spare ribs in black bean sauce, alongside exceptional seafood options.
It’s a great spot for a relaxed family yum cha, complete with high chairs and a warm welcome for kids.
Shark Fin Inn, 50 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9662 2681
5. Oriental Teahouse, Melbourne & South Yarra
Oriental Teahouse offers a contemporary take on yum cha with its sleek decor and hand-blended teas. The menu features innovative dumplings like roast duck with Peking sauce and ginger prawn dumplings.
This teahouse provides a serene environment for enjoying refined yum cha dishes. It’s a hit with families, offering a laid-back atmosphere and dishes that appeal to all ages.
Oriental Teahouse Melbourne, 378 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9600 4230
Oriental Teahouse South Yarra , 455 Chapel Street, South Yarra VIC 3141 (03) 9826 0168
6. HuTong Dumpling Bar, Melbourne
Known for its Xiao Long Bao, HuTong offers an intimate yum cha experience.
The menu isn’t what I’d consider traditional Hong Kong-style dim sum, and signature dishes include Shao-long bao and Shanghai pan-fried dumplings. If you have a sweet tooth, you have to try their Fried Pumpkin Cake.
Overall, HuTong is cosy and perfect for smaller family outings. While it’s more of an adult vibe, well-behaved kids are welcome. There is more room in the upper levels, but you’ll find it hard to haul your pram up the stairs.
HuTong Dumpling Bar, 14-16 Market Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9650 8128
7. Red Door Yum Cha, Windsor
Tucked away in Windsor, Red Door offers a charming and eclectic yum-cha experience with a great menu.
Expect delicious classic dishes like Shanghai chicken soup dumplings and beef sui mai, alongside sharing favourites like braised pork belly. The Chairman Mao Hong Shao Rou is a must-try.
The quaint setting is great for families looking for a quieter yum cha experience.
Red Door Yum Cha, 1 Mcilwrick St, Windsor VIC 3181, (03) 9510 9658
8. Golden Leaf Chinese Restaurant, Various Melbourne locations
Bustling and busy Golden Leaf is renowned for its accessible and authentic yum cha offerings.
With a menu that includes favourites like chicken feet and har gow, as well as standout pork buns, Golden Leaf is ideal for large groups seeking a classic yum cha experience.
The spacious layout is great for families, and they’re equipped to handle the kiddos with ease.
Golden Leaf Chinese Restaurant, 10-11 Star Cres, Docklands VIC 3008, (03) 9670 1128
Gold Leaf Preston, 419 High Street, 1st Floor, Shop 7, Preston, VIC 3072 Phone: (03) 9470 2882
Gold Leaf Sunshine, 491 Ballarat Road, Sunshine, VIC 3020 Phone: (03) 9311 1863
Gold Leaf Burwood, 155 Burwood Hwy, Burwood East VIC 3151 (03) 9802 3788
Gold Leaf Springvale,1/F, Springvale Shopping Centre, 46/58 Buckingham Ave, Springvale VIC 3171 (03) 9540 3933
9. Lee Ho Fook
Lee Ho Fook offers a refined yum cha lunch menu every weekend. With a focus on traditional dishes and a select wine list, this restaurant provides a sophisticated setting for enjoying classics like prawn dumplings and wok-fried rice noodles.
It’s more suited to older kids due to its sophisticated vibes.
Lee Ho Fook, 11-15 Duckboard Pl, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9654 8239
10. Crystal Jade
Crystal Jade is a bustling spot known for its fresh seafood, flavourful dim sum, and inventive takes on yum cha classics. If you’re not sure where to start, the Fried Taro Dumplings are a menu standout.
It’s family-friendly with high chairs available, but it can get busy, so it’s always best to book ahead – especially for large groups.
Crystal Jade, 154 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9639 2633
11. Tim Ho Wan
Tim Ho Wan, the Michelin-starred chain from Hong Kong, has brought its famed BBQ pork buns and premium yum cha dishes to Melbourne.
Despite its international acclaim, Tim Ho Wan offers an intimate and authentic dining experience and is often filled with prams and high chairs.
It’s a casual spot that’s great for a family outing, with a menu that has something for everyone.
Tim Ho Wan, 206 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9663 9691
12. Lucky Chan, Southbank
Nestled in Crown Melbourne, Lucky Chan offers a premium yum cha experience with traditional trolley service and high-standard dishes. The restaurant is perfect for those seeking a classic yum cha meal with a touch of luxury.
With delectable dim sum options like the Steamed Beef Balls and other classic favourites, it’s well-equipped for families no matter their tastes.
Lucky Chan, Crown Casino, 31, 33/8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006, (03) 9696 3966
13. Spice Temple, Southbank
Spice Temple offers a sophisticated yum cha banquet that draws inspiration from China’s regional cuisines. The refined menu, curated by Neil Perry, features dishes like their mouth-watering Pan Fried Wagyu Bao and Steamed Market Fish Hunan Style.
It’s best for families with older children for a fancier, and generally spicier, yum cha experience.
Spice Temple, 8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006, (03) 9081 0533
14. Flower Drum, Melbourne
The elegant Flower Drum is celebrated for its antique decor and exquisite Cantonese cuisine. The yum cha menu, featuring seasonal selections and traditional favourites, is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavour.
This place is an icon of Melbourne’s dining scene, serving up legendary Peking Duck that needs to be tasted to be believed. It’s a more formal setting, so best suited for special family occasions.
Flower Drum, 17 Market Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, (03) 9662 3655
15. Red Emperor, Southbank
Red Emperor serves traditional yum cha off the trolley with stunning Yarra views. If you had to order just one thing, make it the Truffle Fried Rice – you can thank us later.
The all-you-can-eat option and coeliac-friendly dishes make it a versatile choice for yum cha enthusiasts. It’s welcoming to families and offers a scenic dining experience.
Red Emperor, Crown Casino, 31, 33/8 Whiteman St, Southbank VIC 3006, (03) 9696 3966
16. Din Tai Fung, Melbourne
Din Tai Fung, located in Emporium Melbourne, offers a unique experience with robot waiters and an open kitchen.
Again, while it’s not precisely Hong Kong-style yum cha, it makes this list for its large menu of dumplings and friendly-friendly set-up. It’s famous for its xiao long bao (which kids will love to watch being made through the kitchen window) and is the perfect location for a post-shopping dumpling feast.
Din Tai Fung, Level 4/287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Emporium Melbourne, (03) 9654 1876
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