Best yum cha in Melbourne: Top 10 places to try

Melbourne is famous for its rich food culture, and yum cha is one dining event that truly combines tradition, taste, and social vibes. Many Australians have turned this Cantonese-style breakfast of bite-sized foods served with tea into a weekend routine. From Chinatown classics to suburban hidden treasures, here is a guide to the best yum cha in Melbourne, whether you like dumplings, pork buns, or spicy wontons.

David’s in Prahran: A Shanghainese spin

David’s in Prahran offers a Shanghainese touch to a polished interpretation of yum cha. Here, unlike conventional trolley service, they create everything fresh to order. Popular dishes are their distinctive Dongpo pork belly, crispy vegetable’s spring rolls, and Xiao Long Bao.

• Dishes made to order
• Vegan options are offered.
• A bright, clean space is ideal for groups.

David’s is a fantastic pick if you want a contemporary experience without compromising flavour.

Chinatown’s Secret Kitchen: Genuine Cantonese Heritage

Located in the heart of Chinatown, Secret Kitchen is a popular spot for enjoying traditional Cantonese yum cha. Trolleys providing har gow, siu mai, and BBQ pork buns keep the venue always humming. Families and frequent city diners both enjoy this location.

• Seafood meals and fresh dumplings
• Quick and effective service
• Perfect for weekend brunch

This place provides Melburnians the classic yum cha experience they enjoy.

Oriental Teahouse in South Yarra and the CBD

Oriental Teahouse has a chic modern feel while yet serving delicious dumplings if you want something a little unusual. Famous for its unusual items like white chocolate dumplings and lemongrass chicken, it’s perfect for younger audiences or date lunches.

• Different dumpling tastes
• Curated teas and cocktails
• Relaxed, fashionable surroundings

This place is perfect for those who want to experience the flavours of yum cha in a relaxed setting.

Flower Drum: Melbourne’s fine dining Cantonese icon

Though not your usual yum cha place, Flower Drum deserves to be noted for its upscale dim sum selections. Imagine quiet, opulent surroundings with graceful service, expertly prepared prawn dumplings, and Peking duck.

• High-end encounter
• Great wine selection
• Preparation and premium components

Flower Drum sets the norm for extended meals or special events.

HuTong Dumpling Bar in the CBD

Especially for its renowned Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), HuTong is a must-see for dumpling enthusiasts. The kitchen is open and the environment is vibrant, so patrons can see cooks at work.

• Genuine Shanghai-style dumplings
• Quick service and central location
• Regularly excellent quality

Perfect for leisurely trips, whether you’re shopping or sightseeing in the city.

Golden Dragon Palace in Templestowe

Golden Dragon Palace, located approximately 30 minutes from the CBD, is a popular destination for yum cha enthusiasts. Among its more than 100 delicacies are mango pancakes, fried squid, and all the basic dumplings.

• Large menu choice
• Luxurious eating area
• Great for family reunions and big groups

For those looking for diversity and genuineness, it’s certainly worth the journey.

Red Door Yum Cha in Windsor

Red Door Yum Cha offers a contemporary twist on the classic. Diners order by menu without carts, which guarantees everything is hot and fresh. Look forward to crispy tofu and scallop dumplings as well as lobster.

• Comfortable and modern environment
• Excellent value set meals.
• Appropriate for vegetarians

They are ideal for individuals who are looking for a consistent, enjoyable meal in a serene environment.

Din Tai Fung in Emporium Melbourne

A member of the worldwide dumpling chain, Din Tai Fung is renowned for its precisely made dumplings and consistent tastes. Local favourites include their spicy wontons and pork and crab Xiao Long Bao.

• Fast service in a hectic environment
• High-quality, internationally respected brand
• Location of central shopping area

This location is perfect for satisfying your craving for dumplings while exploring the city.

Tao Tao House in Hawthorn

Tao Tao House offers a genuine yum cha experience with old-school trolleys and a warm welcome if you live in the eastern suburbs. Particularly well-liked are their egg tarts and pumpkin dumplings.

• A traditional service approach
• Family-oriented
• Simple reservations and parking

This is an excellent suburban option that maintains both taste and service standards.

China Red in Chinatown

With its touchscreen ordering mechanism, China Red combines technology and tradition. Diners can relax and select items like veggie dumplings and spicy wontons at their own pace, without the need to chase a trolley.

• Wonderful for newcomers
• Quick turnaround and freshly prepared platters
• Vegan and vegetarian friendly

These platters are perfect for quick weekday lunches and leisurely city trips.

Advice on Melbourne yum cha enjoyment

• Go early: Most yum cha restaurants operate between 11 AM and 3 PM. Especially on weekends, arrive early.
• Go in groups: Yum cha is best eaten with several people so you may sample more dishes.
• Be adventurous: Don’t limit yourself to dumplings; sample jellyfish salad, chicken feet, and rice rolls.
• Enquire about dietary options: Many places now provide halal, vegan, or gluten-free meals.

Conclusion

Melbourne’s yum cha culture is as lively as its mixed population. From a busy traditional trolley service to a luxury dim sum meal experience, there is something for every taste and event. Melbourne’s greatest yum cha is about sharing, exploring and appreciating a time-honored ritual in a local manner, not only about food.