For nearly 60 years, the South Melbourne Market Dim Sim shop has been an essential stop for dimmie lovers. Established by the late Ken Cheng, the tiny stall has become a landmark of Melbourne food culture. Now run by Cheng’s sons, the shop continues to serve its famously oversized dim sims to long queues of locals and tourists alike. Their popularity has spread well beyond the market, with the brand now distributed commercially across Victoria.

Size, Value and First Impressions

The first thing you’ll notice about a South Melbourne Market dim sim is the size. These giants are closer to a tennis ball than the palm-sized suburban dimmies most people are used to. Available fried or steamed, they’re filling enough that one or two can make a meal. At the market, the line snakes out the door most days, but it moves quickly, and the ritual of waiting is part of the experience. Be warned, though: many fish and chip shops advertise “South Melbourne dim sims” that aren’t the real deal. If you want authenticity, you have to get them from the market itself.

Flavour and Texture

South Melbourne Market dim sims are pepper-forward, with a strong, savoury filling made from a mix of cabbage, beef, pork, and lamb. Fans love the punch of seasoning, though some say the pepper content has mellowed over the years. The skins are thick and chewy, better suited to frying than steaming, and the fried option is widely considered the superior way to enjoy them. While once unbeatable, some argue that the commercialisation of the brand has led to a decline in consistency, leaving them less special than in the days when Ken Cheng himself was at the helm. Still, when eaten fresh from the market fryer with soy and chili sauce, they remain a quintessential Melbourne food experience.

Heritage and Community

More than just a dim sim, the South Melbourne Market stall is an institution. The painted lines guiding eager customers to the counter, the bustle of the market, and the sheer satisfaction of biting into a steaming hot dimmie are all part of the ritual. Whether you rate them as the best or simply an Aussie icon past its prime, there’s no denying their cultural importance.

Rating

7/10

Address

91 Cecil St & Coventry Street, Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205

Website

https://www.southmelbournedimsims.com

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Tucked away in an industrial estate in Knoxfield, Kanga Sushi & Wok doesn’t look like a contender for Melbourne’s dim sim crown at first glance. Better known as a sushi and takeaway shop, it quietly produces some of the most talked-about handmade dimmies in the southeast. Regulars rate Kanga Sushi Dim Sims highly, and many argue they deserve a place alongside classics like Moon Palace, Seven Stars, and Tai Wah.

Size, Value and First Impressions

Kanga Sushi dim sims are slightly smaller than average but still satisfying, with skins that are noticeably thin and pressed tightly into the filling. At around $1.70–$1.80 each, or $35 for two dozen cash (at time of writing), they’re well-priced compared to many suburban competitors. While not as heavy as Tai Wah or Fong’s, they have a more refined profile, making them easy to enjoy in larger numbers. Steamed, they hold together well without collapsing, and fried, they develop a chewy-crisp skin that pairs beautifully with sweet chili sauce.

Kanga Sushi Dim Sims Flavour and Texture

Where Kanga really stands out is flavour balance. The filling, a mixture of pork and chicken, is lighter and less dense than heavyweights like Tai Wah. Instead, it offers a subtle sweetness, with hints of herbs and vegetables rounding out the profile. This makes them a versatile dimmy: steamed, they shine when dipped in a strong soy or kecap manis; fried, they lean toward a sweeter finish that works brilliantly with chili sauces. They aren’t peppery like South Melbourne Market dimmies, nor overly cabbagey, sitting neatly in their own middle ground. Fans often note they’re the kind of dimmy you’d happily see served beyond a takeaway counter.

Community Standing and Comparisons

Kanga Sushi divides opinion. Some find them too sweet, oily, or soft—but many rank them among Melbourne’s best. In dimmie “steam-offs,” they’ve gone toe-to-toe with Somerville Noodle and held their own against stalwarts like Moon Palace and Seven Stars. For locals, they’re a reliable favourite, and for dimmie hunters, they’re proof that great discoveries often come from unlikely places.

Rating

7/10 steamed

7.5/10 fried

Address

5/50 Rushdale St, Knoxfield VIC 3180

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Located on Centre Road in East Bentleigh, Fong’s is a name that keeps surfacing whenever Melbourne’s dim sim royalty is discussed. While Tai Wah and Seven Stars usually dominate the conversation, Fong’s consistently finds itself in the top tier thanks to its generous size, dense filling, and old-school flavour. Locals swear by them, and for some, Fong’s dimmies are the ultimate comfort food, bringing back memories of family dinners and takeaway nights from decades past.

Size, Value and First Impressions

If you like a dim sim that makes a statement, Fong’s will not disappoint. Larger and firmer than Seven Stars, these dimmies are heavy, filling, and best tackled when you’re hungry. At around $2 each, they sit on the higher end of suburban pricing but justify it with sheer substance. You’ll struggle to eat more than four or five in a sitting, unlike other spots where a dozen can disappear quickly. Thin skins mean they’re delicate when steamed, but fried, they develop a satisfying crunch that keeps many regulars coming back.

Flavour and Texture

Fong’s dim sims lean toward a pork-and-beef mix, creating a hearty, meaty bite that’s complemented by a peppery edge. The filling is dense and compact, perhaps too much so for some, but it delivers a richness that makes soy sauce or chili sauce optional extras rather than necessities. Fried, the balance works beautifully, as the crisp wrapper cuts through the heaviness of the filling. Steamed, the skins can slip or break, which makes them less forgiving, though still tasty. If you’re after a snack that eats like a meal, Fong’s delivers in spades.

Community, Heritage and Ranking

Part of Fong’s charm lies in its family feel. Customers often mention the friendly owners and the clean, simple kitchen. While some rank them behind Tai Wah or Seven Stars in overall flavour, many argue they’re the most filling and satisfying of Melbourne’s dim sim options. For some, Fong’s fried dimmies even outrank the competition, slotting into the top two or three spots in their personal rankings. Love them or not, they’re a fixture of the Bentleigh “Golden Mile” and well worth the short detour if you’re exploring Melbourne’s dimmie landscape.

Rating

8/10

Address: 

725 Centre Rd, Bentleigh East VIC 3165

Website

https://go.thryv.com/site/fongschineserestaurant

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Berwick Palace Chinese has quietly built a reputation among dimmie enthusiasts, offering a take that sits somewhere between the classic old-school style and a slightly sweeter, more modern flavour. Much like Tai Wah, the restaurant has its loyal followers, with some claiming these dim sims are among Melbourne’s best. For many, Berwick Palace is a must-stop on the dimmie trail, and its mix of nostalgia and subtle sweetness has created plenty of buzz.

Size, Value and First Impressions

Berwick Palace dim sims are known for being generously sized, comfortably competing with heavyweights like Tai Wah and Moon Palace. The fried versions, in particular, stand out with their impressive crunch and satisfying bite, while the steamed dimmies tend to divide opinion. At a fair price point, they represent strong value, particularly for those chasing hearty, filling parcels that don’t skimp on portion. For many visitors, their first taste is memorable enough to guarantee a return trip.

Flavour Profile, Texture and Appearance

Flavour is where Berwick Palace starts to branch away from its old-school cousins. The filling is distinctly meaty, leaning beefy, but with a touch of sweetness that softens the edges. This sweetness is what sets Berwick apart, less sugary than Ng Sing, but noticeably sweeter than Tai Wah. Some find this balance “sen-sational,” while others think it tips slightly too far from tradition. The skins are thinner than expected, particularly on the steamed dimmies, with a doughier, almost pasta-like texture that won’t be to everyone’s taste.

But let’s be honest: if you’re looking for a good-looking dim sim, this isn’t the place. These are ugly dimmies. Thin-skinned and fragile, they need a gentle hand when steaming or they’ll collapse on you. The fried version, however, more than makes up for it with a reliably crunchy casing that locks in the rich, beefy filling. Looks aren’t everything, and Berwick Palace proves that flavour wins over form.

Divided Opinions but Worth the Detour

As with most cult dimmie spots, Berwick Palace isn’t without detractors. Some argue the filling is too close to sausage meat, with cabbage padding out the bulk. Others praise it as one of the top contenders in Melbourne, especially the fried dim sims, which many rank among the best they’ve ever tried. Ultimately, Berwick Palace delivers a unique interpretation—meaty, slightly sweet, and always memorable. For dimmie hunters, it’s absolutely worth a detour, even if only to decide for yourself where it ranks in Melbourne’s crowded dim sim scene.

Rating

7.5/10

Address

47 High St, Berwick VIC 3806

Website

https://www.berwickpalace.com.au

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Pearl Garden in Upwey has long been a name spoken with reverence among dim sim enthusiasts. Back in the early 2000s, Pearl Garden was at the peak of its powers, winning the ADSC Championship three years in a row and earning a reputation as one of Melbourne’s finest. While the shop has since changed ownership, it still carries a loyal following and remains a must-visit for anyone exploring the outer east’s dimmie offerings.

Size, Value and First Impressions

Pearl Garden dim sims sit somewhere in the middle of the size spectrum. Not as large as South Melbourne Market dimmies or Mama Tran’s, but still a satisfying handful. Prices are in line with other suburban dimmies, making them a fair-value option. Fried or steamed, they’re hearty enough to fill you up, with some diners noting a strong spring onion presence in the filling. Alongside the dim sims, the homemade spring rolls are locally famous. Massive, stuffed with fresh ingredients, and almost a meal in themselves.

Flavour and Texture

Pearl Garden’s dim sims have had mixed reviews over the years. Earlier generations were praised for balance and consistency, but more recent batches have divided opinion. Fans describe them as delicious, with a good wrapper and nicely seasoned filling, leaning toward pork or beef depending on the era. Others, however, find them too cabbage-heavy, occasionally mushy, or carrying an unusual aftertaste, sometimes likened to curry powder. The pepper level can vary depending on who makes them, which adds an element of unpredictability. Fried versions tend to hold up better, with a crisp bite that helps balance the softer filling, while steamed dimmies can feel looser and less structured.

Heritage and Community Standing

Despite mixed opinions today, Pearl Garden still commands respect. Its history as a top contender in Melbourne’s dim sim scene ensures it has a place in the broader conversation, even if newer operators like Loi Eng or Dim Sim King have overtaken it in some rankings. With ownership now in the hands of a younger generation, the shop has shifted toward denser, beefier dim sims reminiscent of Tai Wah, losing some of the sweetness and delicacy of the past. Still, for locals and nostalgic fans, Pearl Garden remains a beloved part of Upwey’s food culture.

Rating

6.5/10

Address

36 Main St, Upwey VIC 3158

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Seven Stars in East Bentleigh has quietly earned a place among Melbourne’s most respected dim sim institutions. Known for their all-pork filling and strong family heritage, these dimmies are spoken of in the same breath as Tai Wah and Fongs. For many, a trip to Seven Stars isn’t just about food, it’s about tasting a slice of history.

Size, Value and First Impressions

Seven Stars dim sims sit neatly in the middle ground when it comes to size. They’re not as large as the South Melbourne giants, but they’re bigger than Moon Palace’s smaller parcels. Slightly larger than a golf ball, they’re satisfying without being overwhelming, and most people can easily polish off a few in one sitting. Steamed or fried, they hold their shape well thanks to a reliable skin that survives a generous steam bath without falling apart, a mark of craftsmanship that’s easy to overlook until you try a dimmie that doesn’t manage it.

Flavour and Texture

Where Seven Stars shines is balance. Unlike Tai Wah’s dense, beef-leaning filling or Fongs’ heavier pepper-driven profile, Seven Stars offers a gentler harmony of pork and cabbage. The filling is flavoursome without being overly rich, producing a dim sim that’s both moreish and easy to eat in numbers. Many describe them as “childhood in a bite,” evoking memories of Taiping days in St Kilda or family dimmie nights. They’re also a versatile dimmy, delicious fried with a crisp bite, but equally enjoyable steamed, where the savoury pork flavours shine through. Soy sauce is optional but not necessary, a testament to the natural balance of seasoning in the filling.

Tradition, Heritage and Community

Part of the charm of Seven Stars is the family story. Long-time customers speak warmly of the owners, who take the time to chat and share tales of their ties to Taiping. This sense of heritage adds weight to every bite, you’re not just eating dim sims, you’re sharing in a tradition that has been carefully carried forward. While they might not always win blind taste-tests against heavyweights like South Melbourne or Tai Wah, Seven Stars consistently impresses with flavour, integrity, and heart.

Rating

6/7

Address

623 Centre Rd, Bentleigh East VIC 3165

Website

https://www.sevenstars.com.au

Steamed Seven Star

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Tucked away on High Street in Preston, Moon Palace is no ordinary Chinese restaurant. Run by Colin Choy and his wife Jenny, the shop is little more than a counter, a fridge, and a small kitchen. There are no tables or chairs, but that doesn’t matter. People don’t come here for ambience, they come here for dimmies, and Moon Palace has earned a reputation as one of Melbourne’s finest purveyors. With regular beef dim sims and a fiery chili variation, Colin has built a loyal following over decades.

Size, Value and First Impressions

Moon Palace dim sims are smaller than heavyweights like Tai Wah or Berwick Palace, but what they lack in size, they more than make up for in flavour. They remain excellent value, solidifying their spot as a favourite for regulars and first-timers alike. The fried versions win many fans, with a crisp exterior that pairs perfectly with the rich, beefy filling. The steamed ones, especially with a dash of Pearl River mushroom soy, are equally beloved by long-time customers who have been ordering them for decades.

Flavour and Texture

Flavour is where Moon Palace truly shines. The beef filling is fresh, meaty, and consistent, striking a balance that few competitors manage. Unlike some dimmies that lean too heavily into dense meatballs, Moon Palace dim sims often include a subtle mix of vegetables that give them a lighter, more nuanced texture. This balance means the skins don’t slip off like at some competitors, holding together nicely while delivering a juicy bite. The regular beef dim sim is a Melbourne classic, but the chili dimmy is where Colin’s genius shows: just enough heat to complement the beef without overpowering it.

Tradition, Consistency and Community

For many, Moon Palace is more than just food, it’s tradition. Families have been visiting for 30 or even 40 years, always greeted warmly by Colin and Jenny. The consistency of quality over decades is remarkable, and many believe Moon Palace now rivals or even surpasses stalwarts like Tai Wah. Beyond the dimmies, their spring rolls are also worth a mention, crisp, flavourful, and the perfect companion to a box of steaming hot dim sims.

Ratings

Regular Dim Sim: 8/10

Chili Dim Sim: 10/10

Address

609 Gilbert Rd, Preston VIC 3072

Website

https://moonpalacechinesetakeaway.com.au

Here’s a video of them being made.

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Tai Wah is an “old school” Chinese restaurant that has been around for decades, and the décor has too. Walking in feels like stepping back in time, and Tai Wah dim sims match that atmosphere perfectly. For many locals, Tai Wah dimmies are rated amongst the very best in Melbourne, and they’ve developed a loyal following over the years. Steamed or fried, these big, hearty parcels are always on the radar for anyone chasing a premium dimmie experience.

Big, Filling and Great Value

What sets Tai Wah dim sims apart is their size. At $2 a piece, they’re excellent value, easily 50% bigger than some of their suburban competitors like Moon Palace. That bulk makes them filling and satisfying, whether you’re grabbing a quick snack or building a whole meal around them. The fried version tends to shine more than the steamed, with a reliably crisp texture that balances the dense filling. Steamed, they can come across as a little soggy.

Flavour and Texture

Flavour-wise, Tai Wah dim sims are meaty and rich. Some reviewers note that the skins are thick but a little loose, while the filling is dense with a blend that leans toward beef, perhaps with some pork mixed through. The taste is described as very “old school,” reminiscent of the 1960s, nostalgic for some, plain for others. Unlike modern, finely balanced dimmies, these don’t really need soy sauce to add flavour, though a dash doesn’t hurt. They can be slightly oily, but never unpleasantly so.

Tai Wah dim sims – Divisive but Worth Trying

Not everyone is convinced. Some find the flavour a bit flat, like cheap mince beef, especially when compared to more contemporary dimmies around Melbourne. But for many, that’s exactly the point: Tai Wah dimmies are about heritage, tradition, and consistency. Moorish, old-fashioned, big, and hearty, they’re a must-try for anyone exploring Melbourne’s dimmie landscape.

Rating

7/10

Address

122 Balcombe Rd, Mentone VIC 3194

Website

https://taiwah.lifeintouch.net

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When most people think of the South Melbourne Market, the iconic machine-made South Melbourne Market Dim Sim (SMM) comes to mind. But tucked around the corner at Stall 35 is Mama Tran, often called “the other South Melbourne dimmie.” Unlike the mass-produced SMM version, Mama Tran belongs to the homemade camp. Handmade in smaller batches with fresh ingredients, resulting in a product that feels less processed and more personal. For dimmie lovers who find the classic SMM too peppery, Mama Tran has become a popular alternative.

Size, Value and First Impressions

Mama Tran dim sims are big. Among Melbourne’s largest, they can stretch to six, seven, even eight bites before you’ve conquered one. That bulk makes them filling and sometimes divisive. Too big and too mushy for some, but hearty and satisfying for others. Available in both pork and chicken, they sit at the more premium end of market pricing, but regulars argue the quality of ingredients justifies the cost. Fried is the preferred option for many, with a thinner, crisper skin that holds up better on the run compared to steaming, which can leave them a little too soft to handle comfortably.

Flavour and Texture

Mama Tran’s flavour leans toward the “mushy-cabbagy” style of dim sim. Fans praise the balance of cabbage, pork or chicken, and black pepper, which gives a subtle lift without overwhelming the palate. Water chestnuts and vegetables add texture, setting them apart from pure meatball-style dimmies like Tai Wah. Critics say the meat-to-cabbage ratio is tilted too far toward the vegetable side, resulting in a looser, less robust bite. Still, the fried version often redeems any shortcomings, offering a satisfying crunch with a savoury, cabbage-sweet filling inside.

Community, Heritage and Comparison

Mama Tran’s heritage is tied closely to the Dragon Room family, who make the dim sims by hand using quality ingredients. This connection gives the brand credibility among dimmie purists, even if opinions differ on execution. Compared side by side, Mama Tran is less peppery than SMM dimmies and often considered superior in freshness. However, those who prefer the firm, meat-heavy style may find Mama Tran’s too loose. Ultimately, they appeal most to the “cabbagy” dimmie camp, delivering a lighter, vegetable-driven take on the classic.

Rating

7/10

Address

Stall 35, Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205

Website

https://www.southmelbournemarket.com.au/traders/mama-tran-dumpling

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Preston Noodle on High Street is a small, unassuming takeaway that hides one of Melbourne’s great dim sim secrets. Known for their homemade pork dim sims, they’ve developed a loyal following among locals and travelling dimmie hunters alike. In a suburb full of food culture, Preston Noodle has carved out its place as the go-to spot for pork-based dimmies, with many calling them the best in the north.

Size, Value and First Impressions

Unlike the giant South Melbourne Market dim sims or the dense, meaty Tai Wah style, Preston Noodle offers a slightly smaller but refined dimmy. A standard serve of steamed comes as five, with fried options also available. At around $1.80 each, they represent strong value considering the quality. The skins are thin, almost like wonton wrappers but without the yellow hue, and hold together beautifully whether steamed or fried. Steamed, they’re light and juicy without going soggy; fried, they crisp up nicely with a satisfying crunch.

Flavour and Texture

Preston Noodle’s strength lies in its filling. Made with fresh sow (female) pork sourced from the adjacent Preston Market butcher, the filling avoids the gamey “boar taint” that can sometimes haunt pork dim sims. The result is finely minced, smooth, and subtly sweet, with cabbage and shallots blended in for balance. Unlike heavier dimmies that lean toward beefiness, these are lighter, more delicate, and refined. A faint flavour enhancer is noticeable, but it doesn’t overwhelm the natural taste. They pair beautifully with strong soy sauces like mushroom soy, or kecap manis for those who want extra punch.

Community and Comparisons

Preston Noodle is often praised as the benchmark pork dim sim, frequently ranked alongside Moon Palace (beef) and Seven Stars (pork-and-cabbage) as one of Melbourne’s dimmie elite. Some detractors find them a touch bland and needing soy to really shine, but for most fans, their lightness is exactly the point. They may not hit with the pepper of South Melbourne or the density of Tai Wah, but in their balance and clean finish, Preston Noodle dim sims stand tall.

Rating

7/10 steamed

7.5/10 fried

Address

417-419 High St, Preston VIC 3072

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