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Guangzhou Dim Sum Culture: A Morning Ritual in Old Teahouses

04/25/2025

In the early morning of Guangzhou, when the first rays of sunshine fall on the green bricks of Shamian Old Street, the most authentic life scene of the city unfolds. For those who truly understand Guangzhou, an authentic dim sum meal is not just a meal but a transmission of a lifestyle art. Let's step into the most flavorful morning of this city and explore the most authentic teahouse culture.

Memories of Guangzhou in the Morning Light

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Dim sum originated in the Song Dynasty and is a morning ritual continuing for thousands of years in Guangzhou. In teahouses, old Guangzhou residents sip tea and read newspapers, families gather and share; unlike British afternoon tea, this place is filled with the warmth of daily life and human touch, showcasing the unique life aesthetics of Lingnan.

Exploring Authentic Teahouses

Chen's Teahouse: A Taste of a Century-Old Brand

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📍 Teahouse Information
* Location: Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, Liwan District, Guangzhou
* Open: 06:30-14:30
* Price: 50-80 RMB per person
* Features: Century-old brand, traditional dim sum
* Tips: Arrive before 7 AM to avoid peak crowds

Lian Xiang Lou: A Representative of Lingnan Flavor

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Dim Sum Etiquette and Ordering Tips

The Art of Brewing Tea

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Brewing tea emphasizes the "three brews" method:
1. First brew: Rinse the tea, about 5 seconds
2. Second brew: Taste the tea, about 15 seconds
3. Third brew: Savor the aftertaste, about 20 seconds

Dim Sum Selection Guide: Taste the Craft of a Hundred Years

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🍽️ Must-try Dishes
* Shrimp Dumplings: Translucent skin wrapping fresh, sweet shrimp
* BBQ Pork Buns: Fluffy and soft with juicy filling
* Chicken Feet: Chewy texture, savory taste
* Rice Noodle Rolls: Smooth and delicious, enhanced with sauce

Recommendations for Experiencing Dim Sum Culture

Best Time to Visit

  • Recommended to arrive between 6:30-8:30 to experience the most authentic dim sum atmosphere
  • On weekends, it is advised to arrive as early as 6:00 to avoid local peak hours
  • During holidays, reservations are recommended, which can be made via WeChat or phone a day in advance

Ordering Culture and Etiquette

  1. Tea seat fee (about 15-25 RMB/person) includes teaware cleaning and water refilling services. For first-time diners, use "唔该" (m̀h'gōi) to express thanks
  2. Dim sum is charged per piece (about 8-25 RMB per portion). For allergies, say "I am allergic to…" (我对…敏感/ngo5 deoi3…man5 gam2)
  3. For dim sum carts, you can order in English or by pointing, and the staff will patiently explain
  4. Payment methods include Alipay, WeChat, VISA, etc.
  5. Vegetarians can opt for red bean buns, radish cakes, chive dumplings, etc., and it is advisable to inform the waiter of "vegetarian" (全齐素/cyun4 cai4 sou3) in advance
  6. It is recommended to dine with four people to experience the social culture of "yum cha" (yam2 caa4)

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Here, dim sum is not just a breakfast, but a heritage of a lifestyle. It allows us to find a place to slow down in the fast-paced modern life and savor the most authentic life atmosphere of Guangzhou.

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