Arguably the most well-known dining experience in Chinese culture is the dim sum. Dim sum literally translates to “touch the heart” and its associated Cantonese phrase yum cha to “to drink tea”. Generally, yum cha means going to a dim sum. Both terms can loosely be used interchangeably, though.
Dim sum is a savory meal of small dishes in bamboo containers or little plates served with your choice of tea. Best enjoyed in the company of family and friends, this traditional Cantonese meal is often a brunch, lunch or afternoon snack affair.
Dim sum remains an integral eating ritual for most Chinese. To them, it not only is a source of pride but a manifestation of their unique culture as well.
Generation after generation of families has carried on the tradition of going to yum cha on special occasions and holidays. It is usually served and eaten family-style. This suggests that the small plates are laid out on the table and shared among the diners. Owing to its small portions, everyone is able to appreciate the variety of flavors and dishes.
The classic menu consists of a diverse array of steamed or fried buns, dumplings, and noodle rolls, all of which have ingredients and fillings especially selected and prepared. They range from meat to seafood and chicken to vegetables.
Dim sum’s origins go as far back as the latter part of the 19th century in the Guangdong region of Southern China. The dim sum culture began in the tea rooms of the port city, Guangzhou.
Centuries ago, overworked rural farmers and travelers along the memorable Silk Road would frequent local teahouses (cha lau) for some rest and camaraderie while enjoying their cups of tea. Shortly thereafter, teahouses began serving a variety of food in small portions to complement the tea. As these travelers reached farther lands, the practice continued to spread and was well-received throughout the region, especially in Hong Kong. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Causeway Bay, Hong Kong is a showcase of colonial-era tradition and Buddhist culture. Built in the 18th century, as a special place of worship to the Goddess of the Sea, Tin Hau Temple is frequented by local fishermen and seafarers praying for good fortune and safety at sea. Sports and horse racing enthusiasts will be thrilled at the Hong Kong Stadium and the Happy Valley RaceCourse as well. Causeway Bay is Hong Kong’s dynamic and lively retail hub. Its western end is filled with high-end malls, department stores, and boutiques. Bargain hunters will surely have a ball at Jardine’s Crescent street markets. Hungry shoppers will then undoubtedly want to feast on the famous dim sum and type dim sum causeway bay on their smartphones.
Located at Lee Garden Three, John Anthony, Cantonese Grill, and Dim Sum, will give you an authentic yet progressive Cantonese cuisine adventure in a venue that conveys earnest nurturing for our environment.
