The Absolute Best Dim Sum in Durham [Updated 2026]

I’ve scoured the streets, hopped from one bustling eatery to another, and sampled countless dumplings, buns, and rolls to bring you the ultimate guide to this delightful cuisine. After reviewing 12 top locations, I can confidently say that Durham’s dim sum scene is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored.

You can trust my expertise because, let’s face it, I’ve become a bit of a dim sum detective, hunting down the fluffiest bao and the crispiest spring rolls. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just dipping your toes into the world of dim sum, I promise there’s something here that’ll tantalize your taste buds and have you planning your next food adventure!

Taipei 101

Highlights
Delicious, shareable portions
Crispy beef scallion pancake
Quick and polite service
Popular spicy boiled fish
Wide variety of tasty dishes

Taipei 101 is a delightful haven for dim sum lovers in Durham. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm ambiance and the tantalizing aroma of sizzling dumplings. The shareable portions are perfectly designed for a group feast or a personal indulgence.

One standout dish was the crispy beef scallion pancake—a delightful fusion of texture and flavor that had me going back for seconds. It was crispy on the outside while maintaining a soft, savory interior. The quick and polite service made the experience even better; the staff seemed genuinely eager to ensure I felt welcome and satisfied.

Another highlight was the popular spicy boiled fish, with a richness that managed to be comforting yet exciting. The attention to detail in the preparation was evident in every bite.

What I truly appreciate about Taipei 101 is the wide variety of tasty dishes on the menu, making it easy to venture outside any culinary comfort zone. Overall, my visit to this gem solidified its place among the best dim sum spots in Durham. If you're seeking an adventure for your taste buds, look no further than Taipei 101!

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Sister Liu's Kitchen

Highlights
Delicious spicy pork dumplings
Great value for portion size
Chewy and tasty dumplings
Friendly staff
Highly rated beef burger

Sister Liu's Kitchen Review

Stepping into Sister Liu's Kitchen feels like embarking on a delightful journey through the heart of dim sum culture! The ambiance is inviting, making it the perfect backdrop for my culinary adventure. Now, let's talk about those spicy pork dumplings – they are a revelation! Bursting with flavor, each bite dances on the palate and showcases the kitchen's dedication to authentic recipes.

One thing that truly impressed me was the generous portion sizes, making it great value for the price. It always warms my heart to find a place that prioritizes not just taste, but also satisfying hunger. The chewy, tasty dumplings had a wonderful texture that was both comforting and indulgent.

Adding to the overall experience was the warmth of the friendly staff. Their genuine enthusiasm for the menu made my visit even more enjoyable. And while packed with scrumptious dumplings, I couldn’t resist the highly rated beef burger on the side! This harmonious mix of flavors made me realize that Sister Liu’s isn’t just about dim sum, but a culinary adventure that delights the senses. If you’re in Durham and hankering for dim sum, Sister Liu's Kitchen is an unmissable gem!

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M Pocha

Highlights
Bold and yummy flavors
Spicy pork buns are a must
Octopus karaage recommendation
Tight venue, reserve ahead
Loud atmosphere, hard to chat

Review of M Pocha:

If you're in the mood for a dim sum adventure, look no further than M Pocha in Durham! This spot is truly a hidden gem, bursting with bold flavors that will leave your palate dancing. I tried their spicy pork buns, and let me tell you, they are an absolute must-have—perfectly steamed and tantalizingly spicy.

While the venue is a bit on the small side, which adds to its cozy charm, I highly recommend making a reservation. The atmosphere can get a bit noisy, and chatting might feel like a game of telephone, but that just adds to the fun! The energetic vibes really set the stage for an unforgettable meal.

Oh, and you simply cannot miss the octopus karaage! It’s crispy, savory, and unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere. M Pocha truly delivers an exciting dining experience that combines the thrill of discovering new flavors with the comfort of traditional dim sum. If you’re ready to indulge your senses, grab some friends and head over—just be sure to come hungry! 🌟

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Krill Restaurant

Highlights
Friendly and helpful waitstaff
Unique tiramisu offering
Good food at reasonable prices
Average dim sum experience
Service recovery appreciated

Krill Restaurant in Durham certainly provides an interesting take on the dim sum scene, but my visit left me with a mix of impressions. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the friendly and attentive waitstaff, who created an inviting atmosphere.

While they made sure my dining experience started off on a high note, I found the dim sum offerings pretty average. The typical favorites like har gow and siu mai didn’t stand out as much as I had hoped. However, what amused me was their surprising twist on dessert: a unique tiramisu that blended traditional flavors with a hint of Asian influence. It was a delightful finish to the meal!

One of the standout aspects was the reasonable pricing; it's refreshing to find a place where one can enjoy a full meal without breaking the bank. Despite the average dim sum experience, the service recovery was commendable—how they navigated my feedback felt genuine and thoughtful.

In summary, if you're keen on a comfortable atmosphere with a playful twist, check out Krill Restaurant for your dim sum adventures in Durham. You might just find your new favorite dessert!

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Nan Xiang Express - Durham

Highlights
Best dumplings in Durham
Fast service and friendly vibe
Tasty pork soup dumplings
Affordable quick bites
Crowded with good atmosphere

Visiting Nan Xiang Express - Durham was like discovering a hidden gem in the bustling landscape of dim sum dining. My taste buds were treated to the best dumplings in Durham, and trust me, they're worth the hype! The moment I stepped inside, the inviting atmosphere buzzed with cheerful chatter—always a good sign for food lovers.

The star of the show was, without a doubt, the pork soup dumplings. Each bite released a burst of savory broth that danced on my palate, leaving me reaching for more. Along with the tasty offerings came fast service from the wonderfully friendly staff, who seemed eager to share in my delight.

What I truly appreciated was the affordable quick bites that didn’t skimp on flavor. There’s a certain joy in savoring these treats without breaking the bank! The place was crowded, adding to the jubilant energy—it’s clear that locals know where to find delightful dim sum. If you’re on a quest for a satisfying and delicious experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Nan Xiang Express. It’s a dim sum lover’s paradise, and I can’t wait to return for another round of those irresistible dumplings!

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Asian Kitchen

Highlights
Authentic flavors
Quick and friendly service
Comfortable casual ambiance
Fresh and flavorful dishes
Great for date nights

Asian Kitchen in Durham is a hidden gem that truly captures the essence of authentic dim sum. As I walked in, the comfortable casual ambiance enveloped me, making it an ideal spot for everything from a friendly catch-up to a cozy date night. The moment I glanced at the menu, my excitement doubled; the variety of options promised a delightful culinary adventure.

From the first bite, I could tell I was in for a treat. Each dish burst with fresh and flavorful ingredients that transported my taste buds straight to Dim Sum Heaven. The dumplings were perfectly steamed, delicate yet satisfying, while the buns were pillowy soft, embodying the authentic flavors that I crave.

One of the highlights at Asian Kitchen is their quick and friendly service, which made my dining experience even more enjoyable. I was impressed by how attentively the staff addressed my needs without being intrusive. Overall, if you're on the hunt for the best dim sum in Durham, look no further than Asian Kitchen. It's a place where every dish tells a story, and I can't wait to return for round two of this delicious adventure!

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Dimsum Asian Bistro

Stepping into Dimsum Asian Bistro felt like a delightful culinary adventure! The dim sum selection was vibrant, showcasing an array of steamed dumplings, crispy spring rolls, and tender buns. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with the shrimp har gow stealing the spotlight—its delicate skin and juicy filling were simply heavenly. The ambiance was both cozy and lively, making it a perfect spot for a casual gathering. Overall, if you're on a quest for authentic dim sum in Durham, this bistro is a gem that shouldn’t be overlooked! I left with a satisfied smile and a desire to return.

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Szechuan Mansion Hotpot Durham

From the moment I stepped into Szechuan Mansion Hotpot Durham, the vibrant atmosphere beckoned me to explore its delightful offerings. Their dim sum selection is a culinary adventure, featuring steamed dumplings bursting with flavor and crispy spring rolls that dance on the palate. The standout was undoubtedly the shrimp har gao, with its delicate wrapper and perfectly seasoned filling. It's an experience that tickles the senses and keeps you wanting more. Paired with their savoring dipping sauces, this spot is a must-visit for any dim sum enthusiast in Durham. A delightful escape that's both playful and satisfying!

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Dim Sum House

My recent visit to Dim Sum House in Durham was a delightful culinary adventure! The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, perfectly complementing the diverse menu. I savored their crispy spring rolls, which were bursting with flavor, and the steamed dumplings melted in my mouth. Each bite was a symphony of textures and aromas, transporting me straight to the streets of Hong Kong. The staff offered warm, attentive service that made me feel right at home. If you're on the hunt for authentic dim sum, look no further—Dim Sum House is a must-visit gem in the heart of Durham!

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Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant

During my visit to Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant, I was immediately struck by the lively atmosphere and the aroma of steaming dumplings. The har gow—delicate shrimp dumplings—were ethereal, bursting with flavor as they danced on my palate. The siu mai offered a delightful contrast, brimming with juicy pork and an unexpected hint of mushrooms. Each bite was a harmonious celebration of textures. The service was prompt yet friendly, enhancing the overall experience. If you’re hunting for authentic dim sum in Durham, this gem is a must-try. I left with a full belly and a heart full of joy!

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Juju Durham

At Juju Durham, I was delighted by their vibrant atmosphere and delightful selection of dim sum. The har gow (steamed shrimp dumplings) were exceptional, showcasing a perfect balance of delicate dough and juicy filling. Their siu mai held a wonderful medley of flavors, elevating the classic dish to new heights. The playful twist of their scallop buns was a delightful surprise, bursting with fresh ingredients. While the service was a tad slow, the flavors more than made up for it. Overall, Juju is a delightful spot for dim sum lovers, offering a unique and enjoyable culinary adventure!

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Miss Chang An

Nestled in the heart of Durham, Miss Chang An is a delightful haven for dim sum lovers. From the moment I stepped in, the aroma of freshly steamed dumplings enveloped me like a warm embrace. Their shrimp har gow was sheer perfection, with a delicate, translucent wrapper that melted in my mouth. The pork buns, fluffy and stuffed with savory goodness, had me dreaming about my next visit. Service was attentive yet unobtrusive, adding to the charming atmosphere. For anyone seeking a delectable dim sum experience, Miss Chang An is a must-visit. Dim sum here is not just a meal; it’s a joyful adventure! 🍽️✨

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