Having explored 12 of the city's finest dim sum offerings, I am excited to share my favorite spots with you.
From bustling dining halls to hidden gems, Oakland's culinary landscape is a tapestry of flavors and cultures that celebrate this beloved cuisine.
Each restaurant brings its unique twist to traditional dishes, ensuring that every visit is a delightful experience.
Whether you’re a dim sum novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will help you navigate the rich tapestry of tastes and textures that make Oakland a premier destination for dim sum lovers.
Good To Eat
☎️ 510-922-9885
🌐 Website
Highlights |
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Regularly updated pan-Chinese menu |
Flavor-packed dipping sauce |
Inquisitive and informative staff |
Excellent for group dining |
Amazing looking dishes |
Review of Good To Eat
Tucked away in bustling Oakland, Good To Eat is a dim sum gem that will make your taste buds dance! As I entered, the welcoming ambiance immediately set the tone for an enjoyable meal. The regularly updated pan-Chinese menu showcases their dedication to serving not just the classics but also unique twists on your favorite dishes. Every plate I sampled was a feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors and artistic presentations.
One of my favorite parts of the experience was the flavor-packed dipping sauce that accompanied the dumplings. Each bite compelled me to dip just one more time! The staff was not only inquisitive and informative, but they also seemed genuinely excited to share their favorites. Their passion for dim sum truly enhanced my visit.
This eatery is fantastic for group dining—perfect for sharing a fabulous array of dishes—making it a go-to spot for gatherings. Overall, my time at Good To Eat was a delightful culinary adventure that I’d recommend to anyone craving a flavorful dim sum experience in Oakland. Trust me; this place deserves a visit, and you'll leave with a smile and a satisfied stomach!
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Flower Lounge
☎️ 510-530-0681
🌐 Website
Flower Lounge in Oakland is a delightful treasure trove of dim sum! The moment I stepped in, the enticing aromas beckoned me to explore. The har gow was delectable, with a delicate, translucent wrapper encasing a fragrant shrimp filling. The siu mai was equally impressive, bursting with flavor and properly steamed to perfection. Their char siu bao offered a heavenly sweet roast pork that had me craving every last bite. The vibrant ambiance made the experience even more enjoyable. If you're in the mood for a dim sum adventure, Flower Lounge promises a satisfying journey that’ll leave your tastebuds dancing!
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Tao Yuen Pastry
☎️ 510-834-9200
At Tao Yuen Pastry, every bite is a delightful adventure! Their steamed buns are pillowy soft, flaunting a delightful sweetness that dances on the palate. The pork shao mai, generously filled and perfectly seasoned, bursts with flavor, making it impossible to stop at just one. I was also enchanted by their crispy spring rolls, which deliver the ideal crunch followed by a medley of flavors. The atmosphere is welcoming, infused with the warm aromas of fresh dumplings. If you're hunting for some of the best dim sum in Oakland, this gem is an absolute must-try!
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Peony Seafood Restaurant
☎️ 510-286-8866
🌐 Website
Stepping into Peony Seafood Restaurant feels like entering a dim sum paradise! The moment those glossy carts glide by, filled with steaming baskets, I knew I was in for a treat. The har gow are a definite highlight—delicate and bursting with flavor, they practically dance on your taste buds. The siu mai also impressed, each bite a savory delight. And let’s not forget their crispy spring rolls, perfectly golden! With a vibrant atmosphere and attentive service, Peony is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary adventure. This is definitely an essential stop for dim sum lovers in Oakland!
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Shan Dong
☎️ 510-839-2299
At Shan Dong, each bite of their handmade dumplings is a delightful journey. The pork and chive dumplings burst with flavor, while the scallion pancakes are perfectly crispy. I was particularly smitten by the szechuan-style wontons, which bring a fiery kick that dances on your taste buds. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff add to the charm, making it a cozy spot to indulge in dim sum. Overall, Shan Dong serves up authentic flavors that make it a standout in Oakland’s vibrant culinary scene. You’ll want to come back for more!
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Ming's Tasty
☎️ 510-918-8988
🌐 Website
Ming's Tasty in Oakland is a delightful gem that left me craving more with each bite! The har gow were exquisitely delicate, with a perfectly thin wrapper cradling plump shrimp—pure bliss. Their siu mai, bursting with flavor, harmoniously combined pork and shrimp, while the char siu bao offered a sweet, sticky surprise that had me imagining a return visit. The cozy ambiance and attentive service made me feel right at home. If you're hunting for authentic dim sum with a dash of charm, Ming's Tasty is a must-try on your culinary adventure in Oakland! 🍤🥢
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Yummy Dim Sum
☎️ 510-893-3388
Yummy Dim Sum truly lives up to its name! From the moment I stepped inside, the inviting aroma of freshly steamed buns wafted through the air, teasing my taste buds. The har gow were plump and bursting with shrimp, while the siu mai had a delightful, savory kick. Each dish felt like a small celebration on my palate. The chewy, golden egg tarts were the perfect sweet finish, melting in my mouth. With its vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff, Yummy Dim Sum is an absolute gem. If you’re in search of dim sum perfection in Oakland, this spot should be at the top of your list!
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Spices 3 辣妹子
☎️ 510-625-8889
🌐 Website
Spices 3 辣妹子 is a delightful gem hiding in Oakland, where bold flavors dance on your palate. The moment I stepped inside, the aroma of sizzling dim sum enveloped me, sparking my appetite. I savored their siu mai, filled with succulent pork and shrimp, and the crispy potstickers, which offered a satisfying crunch with every bite. The spicy, tangy dipping sauce had me reaching for more. The vibrant decor and friendly staff further enhanced my dining experience. If you’re craving a punchy twist on traditional dim sum, this spot should be at the top of your list!
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East Ocean Seafood Restaurant
☎️ 510-865-3381
🌐 Website
Walking into East Ocean Seafood Restaurant feels like stepping into a bustling Hong Kong marketplace. The dim sum here is a delightful symphony of flavors! I was particularly enchanted by the shrimp har gow, perfectly translucent and bursting with flavor. The pork shumai is a must-try, offering a delightful texture and mouthwatering seasoning. Don't skip the chicken bao, as its fluffy exterior cradles tender, savory filling. The atmosphere is vibrant, making it an ideal spot for both dim sum aficionados and newcomers alike. With its fantastic offerings, East Ocean certainly deserves a spot on your dim sum bucket list!
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The Best Dim Sum & Pastry
☎️ 510-268-1823
From the moment I stepped inside The Best Dim Sum & Pastry, the aroma of steaming dumplings enveloped me like a warm hug. Their har gow was a delicate masterpiece, with translucent skins that gave way to a burst of juicy shrimp. The char siu bao had a sweet, savory filling that danced on my palate. Each dish was served with an inviting smile, making me feel right at home. Don’t miss their egg tarts—a heavenly treat that tantalized my taste buds. If you’re craving dim sum, this gem in Oakland is an absolute must-visit!
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Gum Kuo
☎️ 510-268-1288
Gum Kuo in Oakland is a delightful stop for dim sum aficionados! The moment you step in, the aroma of perfectly steamed buns and sizzling dumplings greets you. I couldn't resist the fluffy char siu bao, filled with succulent BBQ pork that practically melts in your mouth. Their shrimp har gow was a standout too—delicate, tender, and bursting with flavor! The ambiance is lively, perfect for a weekend gathering with friends. Service is swift, making it easy to indulge in multiple dishes without waiting long. For a fun, delicious dim sum experience, Gum Kuo is a must-visit!
5 Spiced Kitchen 百香上食
☎️ 510-817-4889
🌐 Website
At 5 Spiced Kitchen 百香上食, I found a delightful twist on traditional dim sum. The steamed shrimp dumplings burst with flavor, showcasing a perfect balance of texture and seasoning. Their fluffy pork buns were a cloud of joy, but the crispy spring rolls stole the show with their golden crunch. The cozy ambiance invites you to linger, sipping on tea as you savor each bite. I admired the attentive service, enhancing my experience. For dim sum enthusiasts, this place is a must-visit, blending authenticity with a modern flair that leaves you wanting more!