Best Cheap Dim Sum in Hong Kong: A Pinoy Guide

Finding cheap dim sum in Hong Kong is surprisingly easy if you know where the locals go, especially in neighborhoods like Sham Shui Po and Prince Edward. You can enjoy world-class siomai, hakao, and chicken feet without breaking the bank by visiting legendary spots like Tim Ho Wan or hidden gems like Saam Hui Yaat. Staying connected to Google Maps is essential to find these tucked-away eateries, and that is where a reliable data plan comes in.

For many Filipinos, a trip to Hong Kong isn't complete without a food crawl. Whether you are an OFW on a well-deserved day off or a tourist visiting with the family, the goal is always the same: masarap na pagkain na hindi masakit sa bulsa. Hong Kong's food scene can be expensive, but dim sum is the great equalizer.

Why Dim Sum is the Ultimate Budget Meal

Dim sum, which literally means "to touch the heart," is more than just food; it is a culture. In Hong Kong, this is often called yum cha (drinking tea). While fancy hotels charge a premium, the best, most authentic flavors are often found in humble, crowded shops where the tea is strong and the baskets are steaming.

For Pinoys, dim sum feels like home because of our love for siomai and pao. But in HK, the variety is endless. To find these spots, you will need a steady internet connection. Don't rely on spotty public Wi-Fi when you can see plans from BalikData that keep you connected the moment you land.

Top 5 Budget-Friendly Dim Sum Spots

1. Tim Ho Wan (Sham Shui Po Branch)

This is perhaps the most famous "cheap" dim sum place in the world. While they have many branches, the one in Sham Shui Po is the most iconic for budget travelers. It once held a Michelin star while remaining incredibly affordable.

• Must-try: Baked BBQ Pork Buns (Crispy, sweet, and savory).
• Vibe: Very busy, expect to share a table with strangers.

2. One Dim Sum (Prince Edward)

Many locals actually prefer One Dim Sum over Tim Ho Wan. The menu is extensive, and the quality is consistently high. It is located near the Flower Market, making it a great stop during a day of sightseeing.

• Must-try: Steamed Vermicelli Roll (Chee Cheong Fun) and Fried Egg Sticks with Honey.
• Vibe: Friendly and slightly more relaxed than Tim Ho Wan, but still has long queues.

3. Dim Sum Square (Sheung Wan)

If you are staying on Hong Kong Island, this is your best bet. It is clean, efficient, and very popular with the office crowd. It is a great place to refuel after exploring the Central district.

• Must-try: Crispy BBQ Pork Rice Rolls and Crystal Shrimp Dumplings (Hakao).
• Vibe: Modern and fast-paced.

4. Saam Hui Yaat (Sai Ying Pun)

This is for the adventurous Pinoy traveler. It is a traditional, old-school dim sum house. No fancy decor, just uncles reading newspapers and bamboo baskets stacked high. It is one of the cheapest places left in the city.

• Must-try: Big Buns (Dai Bau) and Quail Egg Siomai.
• Vibe: Authentic, gritty, and very local.

5. Lin Heung Kui (Sheung Wan)

If you want the experience of the traditional dim sum trolleys, this is the place. It is a bit chaotic, and you have to chase down the ladies pushing the carts, but it is an experience you won't forget.

• Must-try: Whatever looks good on the passing trolley!
• Vibe: Loud, traditional, and very lively.

Staying Connected While You Eat

Searching for these restaurants in the narrow streets of Mong Kok or Sheung Wan can be tricky. Google Maps is your best friend here. Instead of paying for expensive roaming fees from Globe or Smart, many Pinoys are switching to BalikData.

BalikData provides travel eSIMs that use the csl and SmarTone networks in Hong Kong. These are two of the best carriers in the region, offering excellent 5G coverage even inside the MTR (subway) and crowded malls. Since these are data-only plans, you won't get a local phone number, but you can still make all your calls via WhatsApp, Messenger, or Viber to update your family back home about your food adventures.

Why Choose an eSIM Over Roaming?

Feature	BalikData eSIM	Standard Roaming (PH SIM)
Cost	Budget-friendly, fixed price	Can be very expensive per day
Network	Local 5G (csl/SmarTone)	Depends on roaming partner
Convenience	Digital download, no physical SIM	Risk of losing your PH SIM
Control	Prepaid, no bill shock	Potential hidden charges
Setup	Easy QR code scan	Often requires manual activation

How to Install Your Hong Kong eSIM

If it is your first time using an eSIM, don't worry—it’s easier than ordering dim sum! Before you leave the Philippines, make sure to check if your phone is ready for eSIM technology. Most newer iPhones and Android flagship phones are compatible.

For iPhone Users:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular.
2. Tap Add eSIM.
3. Use the QR code sent to your email after you see plans and purchase.
4. Label it "HK Travel" and set it as your secondary data line.

For Android Users:

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.
2. Tap Add mobile plan > Scan carrier QR code.
3. Follow the prompts to activate.

You can find a more detailed guide on how to install your eSIM on our website. It is best to do this while you still have Wi-Fi at the airport or at home in the Philippines so you are ready to go the moment you land at HKIA.

Data Needs for Your HK Trip

How much data do you actually need? If you are just using Google Maps and sending photos of your hakao to the family group chat, a 1GB or 3GB plan might be enough for a short weekend. However, if you are an OFW who likes to video call home during breaks or if you are a heavy social media user, we recommend 5GB or 10GB. BalikData offers various plans, from small daily passes to large 50GB buckets for long stays.

If you find yourself running out of data while queuing for dim sum, don't worry—top-ups are available. This is much more convenient than looking for a convenience store to buy a physical SIM card, especially since many local SIMs now require real-name registration in Hong Kong, which can be a hassle for tourists.

Pro-Tips for the Budget Pinoy Traveler

• Octopus Card is Life: You can use this for the MTR, buses, and even to pay for your meal at many dim sum shops.
• The Tea Charge: Most dim sum places charge a small fee per person for tea (called wee cha). This is mandatory, so don't be surprised when it appears on your bill.
• Wash Your Utensils: You might see locals rinsing their bowls and chopsticks with hot tea in a large basin. This is a traditional HK custom. Feel free to join in or just use the utensils as they are.
• Off-Peak Hours: To avoid long lines at places like One Dim Sum, try going for a late breakfast (10:00 AM) or a late lunch (2:30 PM).
• Plan Ahead: If you're planning more trips, check out our Osaka Itinerary for Filipino Foodies and Shoppers or our Kyoto Travel Guide for Filipino Visitors for more budget-friendly tips.

The bottom line

You don't need to spend a fortune to enjoy the best dim sum in Hong Kong. By sticking to local favorites in neighborhoods like Sham Shui Po and Sheung Wan, you can eat like royalty on a budget. Just remember to stay connected with a BalikData eSIM so you can navigate the city with ease and share every delicious moment with your loved ones back in the Philippines. Kain tayo!