The Ultimate Guide to Morning Tea (Yum Cha) in Guangzhou
In Guangzhou, breakfast is not just a meal; it's a ritual. Locals call it "Yum Cha" (drinking tea). It involves sipping Chinese tea while enjoying baskets of delicate bite-sized food known as Dim Sum. Whether you are discussing business or catching up with family, Yum Cha is the beating heart of Cantonese social life.
1. Must-Try Dim Sum Dishes
Walking into a Dim Sum hall can be overwhelming with hundreds of options. Here is your "Cheat Sheet." Point to the Chinese name on your screen when ordering.
| Dish Name / Show to Waiter | Description |
|---|---|
| Shrimp Dumpling 虾饺 (Xia Jiao) | The king of Dim Sum. Translucent wheat starch skin wrapped around whole, juicy shrimp. |
| Pork Siu Mai 干蒸烧卖 (Siu Mai) | Open-topped steamed dumplings filled with pork and shrimp, often topped with crab roe or mushroom. |
| BBQ Pork Buns 叉烧包 (Cha Siu Bao) | Soft, fluffy white steamed buns filled with a sweet and savory roasted pork (Char Siu) filling. |
| Rice Noodle Rolls 拉肠 (Cheung Fun) | Silky steamed rice sheets rolled around fillings like beef, shrimp, or BBQ pork, drenched in soy sauce. |
2. Top 3 Restaurants to Visit
For an authentic experience, skip the hotel buffet and head to these legendary establishments.
A modern favorite among locals and tourists alike. Famous for its large portions, reasonable prices, and the fact that they serve Dim Sum all day long (unlike traditional spots that stop after lunch).
地址：惠福东路475号Known as the "First House of Food in Guangzhou." This is a traditional, upscale choice perfect for business meetings or a refined experience.
地址：文昌南路2号Located in a stunning lakeside garden setting. The architecture is as famous as the food. It offers a very relaxed, scenic dining atmosphere.
地址：龙津西路151号3. Dining Etiquette: The "Tea Tapping"
If you see locals tapping two fingers on the table when someone pours them tea, don't be confused. This is a silent way of saying "Thank You."
Legend has it that an Emperor traveled in disguise. When he poured tea for his servant, the servant couldn't bow (which would reveal the Emperor's identity), so he bent his fingers on the table to simulate a bowing person. Today, it's a polite gesture you should try!
Ready to Eat?
These restaurants are popular, so traffic can be busy. Don't get overcharged on your way there.
Heading to these restaurants? Use our calculator to check the taxi fare.
Check Taxi Fare