The combination of fresh seafood and authentic culinary skills make yum cha in Sydney restaurants a one of a kind experience. As a Sydney-sider who has now been overseas for over 9 years the term “Yum cha” always brings joy to my heart.
The term yum cha is actually a Cantonese word literally translating to “drinking tea” specifically referring to a traditional Chinese past time where one would catch up with friends over tea and some snacks. This is an accurate depiction of why we Yum cha don’t you think?, after all don’t we catch up with friends, cure a killer hangover or just generally want to pig out over Yum cha sessions on the weekends?. As a seasoned Sydney Yum cha appreciator here’s my top 5 restaurant recommendations for you to try out next weekend!
1. Marigold Restaurant
The OG Sydney Yum Cha restaurant is located in Chinatown and have been operating for over 30 years. They have a huge variety of yum cha dishes from the standard har gow and siumai to more lesser known tripe. You are not a true Sydney yum cha enthusiast until you’ve tried Marigold
Restaurant: Marigold Restaurant
Address: 683 George St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Reservations: https://www.marigold.com.au
2. King Dynasty Chatswood
If you happen to be in the lower north shore and crave Yum Cha this is the place to be. King Dynasty is located at the Level 6 of Westfield Chatswood and has over 150 Yum cha dishes to choose from. You can taste the quality of the ingredients, the staff are always friendly and they have recently launched a CoVid friendly initiative, contactless ordering where you order online and get the food delivered to your table.
Restaurant: King Dynasty
Address: 600/1 Anderson St, Chatswood NSW 2067, Australia
Reservations: http://kingdynasty.com.au
3. Sky Phoenix
Located at the top floor of Westfield Sydney Sky Phoenix offers a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. The spacious open plan and friendly service makes it a great Sydney Yum Cha choice should you be in the city. My must try recommendation? their egg tarts were sublime
Restaurant: Sky Phoenix
Address: Shop 6001/188 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Reservations: https://www.phoenixrestaurantsco.com.au
4. Zilver
Located in Westfield Bondi Zilver is a good choice for your weekend yum cha cravings if you’re on the Eastern suburbs of Sydney. This is my go to Yum Cha restaurant in the summer as a pre cursor to sun bathing at Bondi beach.
Restaurant: Zilver Bondi Junction
Address: Shop 6010/500 Oxford St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022, Australia
Reservations: https://www.zilverbondi.com.au
5. Fisherman's Wharf Seafood Restaurant
If you’re after seafood with freshness you can taste then the Sydney’s Fisherman’s Wharf Yum cha is an experience you can’t miss out on. Literally located at the Sydney Fish Markets this restaurant draws locals and tourists (pre-Covid) alike with quality yum cha enjoyed while basking in the view of Pyrmont Bridge
Restaurant: Fisherman’s Wharf Seafood Restaurant
Address: Sydney Fish Markets, Pyrmont Bridge Rd &, Bank St, Pyrmont NSW 2009, Australia
Reservations: http://www.fishermanswharf.com.au