A new dim sum restaurant opens tonight, bringing authentic Hong Kong cuisine and traditional Cantonese flavours to Putney.
Dim Sum Kitchen, run by Paul and his two partners at 284 Upper Richmond Road, will launch after months of careful planning and renovation since the trio first discovered the space in December last year.
The restaurant has undergone significant renovations to accommodate its dual culinary focus. The owners installed an entirely new specialised dim sum kitchen on the top floor, complete with equipment imported from Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the downstairs kitchen was torn out and rebuilt with new equipment, including what Paul describes as “turbocharged wok burners” specifically designed for preparing authentic Cantonese dishes.
“We’ve invested a lot in creating the right environment for both dim sum and traditional Cantonese cooking,” Paul explained during a soft opening event for friends and family that showcased the restaurant’s bustling energy and warm atmosphere.
Authentic dim sum and Hong Kong specialties
The restaurant’s extensive menu showcases traditional dim sum prepared in authentic bamboo steamers, with classics like har gow (steamed prawn dumplings), siu mai (pork and prawn dumplings), and char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) alongside more adventurous options like chicken feet and spare ribs. The main menu features Cantonese staples including stir-fried noodles, sweet and sour dishes, and various rice dishes.
The restaurant aims to be a family-friendly neighbourhood establishment that introduces diners to authentic Hong Kong cuisine. Among the special offerings is traditional Hong Kong milk tea, available both hot and cold. The cold version comes pre-sweetened, while the hot tea allows customers to add sugar to taste.
Paul emphasises that everything is made in-house, acknowledging it’s a laborious process “but you will be able to taste the difference.” This commitment to fresh preparation extends from the hand-wrapped dumplings to the house-made sauces.
“We’re hoping to bring something new to the neighborhood,” Paul said. “We want Putney to embrace this as a fun place where families can come and enjoy authentic flavours.”
Community reception
The soft opening drew an enthusiastic crowd of friends and family, creating the kind of warm, bustling atmosphere the owners hope to maintain once they officially welcome the public. The cozy interior features thoughtful decor designed to create an inviting neighbourhood spot.
Dim Sum Kitchen officially opens tomorrow evening, marking the culmination of nearly a year of planning and preparation to bring Hong Kong’s culinary traditions to Putney’s dining scene.
