The Absolute Best Dim Sum in Austin [Updated 2025]

Having sampled a variety of dishes across the city, I’ve delved into twelve different spots that showcase the delightful nuances of this beloved cuisine.

From fluffy buns to savory dumplings, each place offers a unique experience that reflects the vibrant culinary scene of Austin.

Join me as I take you through these delicious finds, sharing my thoughts on taste, ambiance, and authenticity.

Whether you're a dim sum aficionado or a curious newcomer, there’s something in this guide to satisfy your cravings and elevate your dining adventures.

Old Thousand

Highlights
Freshly served, unique flavors
Great vegan and meat options
Pleasantly surprising fusion
Decent drink selection
Good portion sizes

Old Thousand in Austin gleefully dances on the palate, transforming traditional dim sum with a playful twist. Upon entering, I was greeted by an inviting atmosphere, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Their menu is a feast for the senses, offering a delightful variety of freshly served dishes packed with unique flavors.

I was particularly impressed by their vegan and meat options, proving that everyone can find something to love here. The fusion of classic and innovative preparations creates a pleasantly surprising experience that keeps you coming back for more. My favorites included the savory bao and the fluffy dumplings that seemed to melt away in your mouth, each bite a reminder of how dim sum can be both comforting and delightful.

Pairing my meal with a decent drink selection enhanced the ambiance, making every moment feel special. The good portion sizes ensured that no one left the table hungry, and I appreciated the attention to detail in each dish. Overall, Old Thousand is a must-visit spot for dim sum enthusiasts in Austin, where tradition meets inventive spirit. I'm already planning my next visit!

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P.F. Chang's

Highlights
Celebratory dining experience
Generous portion sizes
Friendly and prompt service
Excellent food quality
Pleasant atmosphere for conversation

P.F. Chang's in Austin isn’t the typical dim sum spot you'd expect, but let me tell you, it brings a unique twist to the scene. As I entered, the celebratory atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm hug—perfect for sharing plates with friends. Generous portion sizes are the name of the game here; you definitely won't leave hungry.

The friendly and prompt service further enhanced my experience, as they welcomed my friend and me like we were regulars, offering excellent recommendations along the way. Their take on traditional dim sum offered a freshness I hadn’t anticipated, with each bite revealing layers of flavor that showcased a commitment to quality.

What really struck me, however, was how well-suited the ambiance was for conversation. Even amid the bustling dining room, we had no trouble enjoying our meal and sharing a few laughs. While P.F. Chang's may not be the standard dim sum destination, it definitely carves out its niche in Austin's culinary landscape. If you're looking for a delightful experience with friends, I’d recommend stopping by—it's a surprising treat you won’t want to miss!

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Chinatown Westlake

Highlights
Exceptional customer service
Unique dim sum variety
Delicious seafood clay pot
Tasty roti with chicken curry
Frequent return visits

Chinatown Westlake is a delightful culinary gem that quickly captivated my taste buds and heart during my pursuit of the best dim sum in Austin. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted with exceptional customer service, as warm and inviting as the ambiance itself.

The unique dim sum variety offered here is a highlight, showcasing everything from classic steamed dumplings to adventurous twists that left me pleasantly surprised. One standout dish was the delicious seafood clay pot, a harmonious blend of freshness and comforting flavors that was nearly irresistible.

But the magic didn’t stop there; I also indulged in their tasty roti with chicken curry, a dish that paired beautifully flaky bread with rich, aromatic sauce—a perfect marriage of textures and flavors. It’s no wonder I found myself plotting my next visit before I even finished my meal.

With each bite, I realized why I’ve made frequent return visits to this charming spot. If you’re in search of dim sum that tantalizes the palate and embraces a welcoming atmosphere, Chinatown Westlake is an experience I wholeheartedly recommend. You won’t just discover a meal; you’ll uncover a vibrant culinary adventure.

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QI Austin: Modern Asian Kitchen

Highlights
Best dim sum in town
Must-try soup dumplings
Expertly seasoned shrimp
Flavorful scallion pancakes
Elegant and fun atmosphere

QI Austin: Modern Asian Kitchen is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Austin, with its dim sum standing out as some of the best in town. As I stepped into the restaurant, the elegant and fun atmosphere immediately set the tone for a delightful dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the dim sum! The must-try soup dumplings left me speechless; they were perfectly crafted, bursting with flavor and that delightful broth that warms the soul. Each tender bite was a revelation, showcasing the skill and care that goes into their preparation.

Equally impressive were the expertly seasoned shrimp, which had just the right amount of zing, making my taste buds dance with joy. And let’s not forget the flavorful scallion pancakes — crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make for the perfect companion to any dim sum spread.

In a city bursting with culinary delights, QI Austin has certainly carved a niche for itself. If you’re on the hunt for a dim sum adventure, this spot is not to be missed! Whether you’re a dim sum aficionado or a curious beginner, you're in for a treat.

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Little Wu

Highlights
Authentic handmade dumplings
Great brunch options
Excellent customer service
Worth the price
Cool and inviting atmosphere

Little Wu is a delightful gem tucked away in the heart of Austin, and I must say, my visit was nothing short of a revelation! As I entered, the cool and inviting atmosphere enveloped me, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely brunch with friends. The authentic handmade dumplings were a standout, boasting a perfect balance of flavors and textures that danced on my palate.

I opted for a variety of dishes, and each one elevated my experience further. The excellent customer service made me feel like a cherished guest rather than just another customer; the staff was attentive and knowledgeable, eager to share their recommendations.

Not only did I appreciate the great brunch options, but I also felt that the prices were quite reasonable for the quality provided—definitely worth every penny! I left with a satisfied belly and a happy heart, already planning my next visit. Little Wu has truly cemented its place in my heart as one of the best dim sum spots in Austin, serving delicious dishes while creating an unforgettable ambiance. If you’re craving an authentic dim sum experience, look no further!

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Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum

Highlights
Unique flower drink
Delectable dishes
Top notch service
Popular among locals
Many vegetarian options

At Lin Asian Bar + Dim Sum, my culinary adventure began with a refreshing flower drink that danced on my palate, setting a delightful tone for the meal ahead. As I browsed the menu, I was thrilled to discover a variety of delectable dishes that showcased both traditional and innovative takes on dim sum. The steamed dumplings were a standout—each bite bursting with fresh flavors that made my taste buds sing.

What truly impressed me, however, was the top-notch service; the staff was both knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring I felt like a VIP throughout my visit. As I watched the bustling atmosphere, it became clear why this spot is so popular among locals. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that invites patrons to linger and savor every moment.

For those with dietary preferences, Lin offers plenty of vegetarian options that don’t skimp on flavor. Overall, my time at Lin was filled with laughter, delightful bites, and a cozy ambiance. If you're on the hunt for the best dim sum in Austin, I wholeheartedly recommend giving Lin Asian Bar a try. You won’t be disappointed!

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Shanghai Chinese Restaurant

Highlights
Authentic dim sum experience
Friendly and lively Chef He
Quick and efficient service
Affordable pricing options
Plenty of parking available

Shanghai Chinese Restaurant truly delivers an authentic dim sum experience that leaves you craving more! As soon as I stepped inside, the lively energy of the place was apparent, and I was warmly welcomed by the entertaining Chef He. His passion for creating delicious bites shines through every dish.

What struck me most was the quick and efficient service. I barely had time to get comfortable before my table was filled with steaming baskets of goodies. From fluffy siu mai to perfectly crispy pork buns, each bite was a delightful surprise of flavor and texture.

The affordable pricing options allowed me to indulge without feeling guilty, and I was thrilled to see the range of selections available—there's something for everyone! Plus, with plenty of parking available, it’s an effortless visit, even during peak hours.

Overall, my experience at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant was nothing short of fantastic. If you're in Austin and on the hunt for the best dim sum, look no further—this gem is a must-try! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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WU Chow - Downtown

Highlights
Beautiful patio seating
Excellent customer service
Share plates for groups
Informative and attentive staff
Phenomenal gluten-free options

When I stepped into WU Chow - Downtown, I was immediately captivated by the beautiful patio seating that sets a relaxed yet vibrant mood, perfect for enjoying dim sum with friends. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, yet the attentive staff made my dining experience feel personal and welcoming.

I was delighted by the phenomenal gluten-free options, which offered a refreshing twist to traditional dim sum. Each dish was beautifully presented and captured the essence of rich flavors without compromise. Their share plates made it easy to explore various items, encouraging lively conversation around the table.

One of the standout features of WU Chow was the excellent customer service. My server was not only informative, but also attentive, ensuring that our dim sum journey was seamless from start to finish. Their playful spirit matched the ambiance perfectly and definitely added to the overall charm.

Overall, WU Chow is a gem for dim sum lovers in Austin. With a blend of flavorful offerings, a delightful atmosphere, and an exceptional staff, it's the kind of place you don't just want to visit—you want to return to again and again. Don't miss out on this dim sum adventure!

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Steamies Dumplings

From the moment I stepped into Steamies Dumplings, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped me, setting the perfect stage for a delightful dim sum adventure. Their pork belly bao was a revelation, bursting with flavor, while the shrimp dumplings offered a tantalizing hint of ocean freshness. Each bite was a dance of textures, and the warm, friendly service made the experience even more enjoyable. The casual setting is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or a leisurely feast with friends. If you’re in search of authentic dim sum in Austin, Steamies should be at the top of your list!

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1618 Asian Fusion

At 1618 Asian Fusion, I was greeted with a vibrant atmosphere that set the stage for an adventurous culinary journey. The dim sum here is an exquisite fusion of traditional flavors and modern twists. The har gow were splendidly delicate, bursting with shrimp goodness, while the char siu bao melted in my mouth. The lively service added to the charm, making each dish feel like a celebration. If you're on the hunt for dim sum that dances on the palate, this gem is not to be missed. 1618 truly captures the essence of authentic Asian cuisine with a flair!

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Julie's Noodles

Julie’s Noodles is a delightful gem in Austin’s dim sum scene! As soon as I stepped in, the aromatic steam wafted through the air, teasing my taste buds. Their siu mai and har gow dazzled with fresh ingredients and a burst of flavor that danced on my palate. The handmade noodles deserve a special shoutout—each bite perfectly chewy, inviting me to return for more. The cozy atmosphere complements the warmth of the staff, making dining here feel like a visit with family. If you're searching for a dim sum experience that's both charming and delicious, don’t miss this spot!

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Fat Dragon

Fat Dragon delights with a vibrant atmosphere and an enticing dim sum menu that truly packs a punch. I was particularly smitten by their steamed pork buns, which were fluffy and bursting with flavor. The shrimp dumplings glistened, showcasing the perfect balance of texture and taste—every bite brought a smile! The staff exhibited remarkable hospitality, making my visit all the more enjoyable. While it's hard to find a standout, the crispy spring rolls managed to shine with their satisfying crunch. If you’re searching for a fresh twist on traditional dim sum, Fat Dragon should top your list!

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