Penang - No visit to Penang feels complete without indulging in a proper dim sum breakfast, and our morning at Lhong Tou Tim Sum was nothing short of delightful. Known as one of Penang’s most famous dim sum restaurants, this spot attracts both locals and visitors eager to start their day with comforting flavours and time-honoured Cantonese classics.
We arrived early, knowing how popular the restaurant can get, and were immediately greeted by the familiar sights and sounds of a bustling dim sum house. Steam rose from bamboo baskets, servers moved swiftly between tables, and the air was filled with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly prepared dishes. It was the kind of atmosphere that instantly makes you hungry, even before the first plate arrives.
We began with siew mai, a dim sum staple that sets the tone for any good meal. These were plump, juicy, and well-seasoned, with a satisfying bite that reflected careful preparation. Next came the Chinese chives shrimp dumplings, which were fresh and fragrant. The sweetness of the shrimp paired beautifully with the subtle sharpness of the chives, all wrapped in delicate translucent skin.
One of the standout dishes was the mackerel fish ball. Springy and flavourful, it had a natural sweetness that highlighted the quality of the fish. Simple yet comforting, it reminded us how well Penang does seafood-based dishes, even in something as humble as a fish ball.
The BBQ pork bun arrived next, warm and fluffy. The bun was soft without being doughy, and the char siew filling was sweet, savoury, and generously portioned. It was comforting in the best way — the kind of dim sum dish that feels like a familiar friend at the table.
We then moved on to the Hong Kong–style chee cheong fun, mixed style, served with both char siew and shrimps. The silky rice rolls were smooth and soft, soaking up the light soy-based sauce perfectly. The combination of tender barbecue pork and fresh shrimp added layers of texture and flavour, making this dish especially satisfying.
For something crispier, we ordered the fried yam puff, which did not disappoint. Light and airy on the outside, the yam casing shattered gently with each bite, revealing a savoury filling within. It was well-executed and not overly oily, a testament to the kitchen’s skill.
To complete the meal, we shared the XO sauce fried radish cake. Crispy on the edges and soft inside, the radish cake was elevated by the bold, umami-rich XO sauce. Each bite delivered a pleasant balance of spice, savouriness, and texture, making it a strong finale to our breakfast spread.
As we lingered over tea and conversation, it became clear why Lhong Tou Tim Sum holds such a strong reputation in Penang. The quality, variety, and consistency of the dishes made the experience memorable. More than just a meal, it was a slow, satisfying way to begin the day; one filled with good food, shared moments, and the comforting rhythm of a Penang morning.
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