A Michelin Star Dim Sum

In the late 2000s, a newly-found interest in having dim sum has developed across the city. Tim Ho Wan’s (添好運) founder and head chef, also a former Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant chef, decided to bring delicate dim sums to the citizens at an affordable price in a new business model.

In contrast to traditional Chinese restaurants that serve a wide range of food, Tim Ho Wan serves only around 20 types of dim sum and has adopted the Cha Chaan Teng settings and styles. Tables are closed to each other and services are less elaborate. No compromise was made on the food though - it is served quickly and deliciously. The new restaurant soon earned a Michelin star in just one year and has substantially attracted long queues of people waiting to try the delicacy. 

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The must-order dish is Crispy BBQ bun (酥皮叉燒包). Instead of a conventional steamed BBQ pork bun, the BBQ pork in the sauce is wrapped in a soft out shell, and covered with a layer of puff pastry to add extra sweetness. It is similar to the Hong Kong-style pineapple bun. Beware of the puff pastry when you eat, it’s very soft and crispy that it comes off easily. 

The menu also features Siu Mai (燒賣), a classic Chinese dumpling filled with a blend of pork and shrimp, that is steamed and served with a soy-based dipping sauce. Despite its ubiquitous presence in almost every Dim Sum restaurant, Siu Mai shouldn't be overlooked. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, showcasing the culinary adage that the most basic ingredients often demand the highest craftsmanship to truly shine.

Tim Ho Wan also serves traditional dim sums, which are not easily found in other Chinese restaurants these days. The Steamed Rice Roll with Pork Liver (黃沙豬潤腸) is a perfect example. Pork liver, which is rich in nutrients, is commonly used in traditional dishes. Moreover, don't underestimate its rice roll wrapper; its smooth, thin texture necessitates a high level of culinary skill on the part of the chef. Approach it with curiosity and enjoy each bite!

Tim Ho Wan has now opened branches worldwide. Some people claim Hong Kong tastes better than other places. Try it out and let us know what you think!