Moon Palace Dim Sims Review: Legendary Beef & Chili Dimmies

A Preston Institution – Moon Palace Dim Sims Review

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.