Trying Cantonese Food in Tampa, Florida!

Are you a fan of Chinese cuisine, particularly Cantonese food? If so, then this article is for you! Dive into the world of delicious dim sum in Florida below!

Chinese cuisine is always a delight, and Cantonese food is no exception. When I was in Tampa, Florida, I made sure to indulge in some of my favorite Cantonese dishes at China Yuan Restaurant. Explore the mouthwatering world of Cantonese cuisine below.

What is Cantonese Food?

Cantonese cuisine originates from the Southern part of China, particularly Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Macau. Known for its delicious dishes, Cantonese cuisine is popular worldwide. From Dim Sum to Wonton noodles, steamed pork buns, sweet and sour pork ribs, and more, Cantonese cuisine offers a variety of flavors that are loved by many. Whether you’re in Florida or elsewhere, you’re likely to come across a Chinese restaurant serving these delectable dishes.

What is Dim Sum?

Dim Sum, also known as Dumplings, is a traditional Chinese food served as a snack or main course. These bite-sized delights can be steamed or fried and are filled with a variety of ingredients such as fresh seafood, meat, and vegetables.

Cantonese restaurants specializing in Dim Sum are common, making it easy to find the best and most delicious Dim Sum in your area. If you’re new to Dim Sum or Cantonese cuisine, continue reading to learn more about these delectable dishes.

How to Order?

If you’re new to ordering Dim Sum, the process can be confusing, especially if there’s no English menu available. Typically, Chinese restaurants in Florida, like the one I visited, offer English menus. The ordering process is similar to that in China, where you’ll find a menu listing all the dumplings available. Simply indicate the quantity you’d like to order (usually 1 per order). Additionally, you may be asked to choose a type of tea to accompany your Dim Sum, such as Black Tea, Jasmine, or Oolong tea.

15 Things You Should Order

During my visit to China Yuan Restaurant in Tampa, Florida, I had the pleasure of trying a variety of Dim Sum and other Cantonese dishes. Here are 15 must-try dishes that you should definitely order.

1. Siu Mei

Siu Mei is a common dumpling filled with a delightful combination of pork and shrimp that is loved by many.

2. Shrimp Dumpling

As the name suggests, this dumpling is filled with juicy and springy shrimp, perfect when paired with chili sauce.

3. Sesame Ball

These sticky rice balls covered in sesame seeds are deep-fried to perfection, offering a mouthwatering dessert option.

4. Shrimp Rice Paste

This classic dim sum dish features plump shrimp wrapped in rice noodles (Cheung fun) and served with sweet soy sauce.

5. Steam Roast Pork Bun

A common dish found in Cantonese restaurants, these fluffy buns are filled with slightly sweet roasted pork, a must-try!

6. Fried Dough Rice Paste

Also known as “Zhaliang,” this dish combines Chinese fried dough (Youtiao) with silky rice noodles for a unique texture and flavor.

7. Fried Taro Dumpling

A fried Taro dumpling features a filling of boiled and mashed taro with ground pork, offering a delicious combination of flavors.

8. Fried Chive Dumpling

This translucent dumpling is filled with Chinese chives, garlic, and sometimes dried shrimp, offering a unique and chewy experience.

9. Shrimp and Scallop Dumpling

For a combination of flavors, try the shrimp and scallop dumpling, which combines the semi-sweet and salty flavors of shrimp with the mild sweetness of scallop.

10. Pan Fried Dumpling

Pan-Fried Dumplings are filled with vegetables and ground meat wrapped in thin dough, offering a crispy and flavorful experience.

11. Steamed Spare Ribs

A favorite dim sum dish made from pork riblets, often cooked with white black beans for an authentic Chinese flavor.

However, finding this sauce outside of the Chinese market can be quite challenging, so you can also use jarred black bean sauce as an alternative.