If you're looking for delicious dim sum in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, Di Tang Zai (地糖仔中式點心專門店) is a great spot to check out. Located near the Meishu (美術館) area, it's a convenient stop if you're exploring the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts or the surrounding neighborhood.
Jump to:
- About the Chef Behind Di Tang Zai
- What We Ordered at Di Tang Zai
- Deep Fried Shrimp Rolls with Banana
- Deep Fried Prawn Rolls in Crispy Noodles
- Pan Fried Turnip Cakes with Preserved Meat (蘿蔔糕)
- Steamed Fresh Prawn Dumplings (蝦餃 / Har Gow)
- Poached Sichuan Spicy Oil Dumplings (紅油抄手)
- Steamed Barbecued Pork Buns (叉燒包 / Char Siu Bao)
- Steamed Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce (豆豉排骨)
- Steamed Custard Buns (奶黃包)
- Why This Dim Sum Spot Stands Out
- Tips for Visiting
They specialize in classic Chinese dim sum - think steamed dumplings, fluffy buns, crispy fried rolls, and comforting small plates. It's the perfect place to order a variety of dishes and share everything with the table.
We tried a mix of fried, steamed, and saucy dishes, and here's everything we ordered (plus what each dish is like so you know what to expect!).
About the Chef Behind Di Tang Zai
Di Tang Zai is led by Chef Yeh Wei-Zhi (葉偉志), who has decades of experience in Cantonese cuisine.
- He started in kitchens at just 15 years old
- Trained and worked in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and Korea
- Former head chef at Lei Garden (利苑酒家), a Michelin-starred restaurant group
- Experience in multiple five-star hotels
After building his career internationally, he returned to Taiwan and opened Di Tang Zai in Kaohsiung, bringing both traditional techniques and creative ideas to the menu.
Because of this, you'll notice a mix of:
- Classic dim sum dishes
- Unique creations you don't always see elsewhere!
For example - the deep fried shrimp rolls with banana are one of their more creative dishes that still work really well!
What We Ordered at Di Tang Zai
Here's everything we ordered, along with what each dish is like so you know what to expect!
If you want to see the tiktok video here it is!
Deep Fried Shrimp Rolls with Banana
One of the most unique dishes we tried. Crispy on the outside with juicy shrimp inside, plus a subtle sweetness from the banana. It might sound unusual, but the sweet and savory combo actually works really well.
Deep Fried Prawn Rolls in Crispy Noodles
These prawn rolls are wrapped in thin, crispy noodles and deep fried until golden. Super crunchy on the outside with flavorful shrimp inside - perfect if you love texture.
Pan Fried Turnip Cakes with Preserved Meat (蘿蔔糕)
A classic dim sum dish made from shredded daikon radish and rice flour, pan-fried until crispy. The preserved meat adds a savory, umami flavor that makes this dish extra satisfying.
They also have a table of condiments so you can dip it in some tasty sauce as well!
Steamed Fresh Prawn Dumplings (蝦餃 / Har Gow)
A dim sum staple. These dumplings have a delicate, slightly chewy wrapper and are filled with fresh, juicy shrimp. Simple, classic, and always a must-order.
Poached Sichuan Spicy Oil Dumplings (紅油抄手)
Also known as spicy wontons in chili oil, this dish is packed with flavor. The dumplings are tender and coated in a savory, spicy, slightly numbing chili oil sauce.
Fun fact - I actually have my own version of this recipe if you want to try it at home!
Steamed Barbecued Pork Buns (叉燒包 / Char Siu Bao)
Soft, fluffy buns filled with sweet-savory BBQ pork. A classic dim sum favorite that's comforting and delicious.
We had to order these because my fiancé loves them. When they came out, we were honestly surprised by how big they were… but they were so good he ended up eating all three himself!
Steamed Pork Ribs with Black Bean Sauce (豆豉排骨)
Tender pork ribs steamed with fermented black beans, garlic, and seasoning. This dish is super savory, slightly salty, and full of umami flavor.
BTW - If you want to try making this at home, I also have my own version of this recipe on my blog!
Steamed Custard Buns (奶黃包)
OK these were SO GOOD.
Soft, fluffy buns filled with a creamy, slightly sweet custard. One really cool thing is you can choose whether you want them served before your meal or after as dessert - we chose after, and it was the perfect sweet ending.
Why This Dim Sum Spot Stands Out
Because of Chef Yeh's background, the menu strikes a great balance between:
- Traditional Cantonese dim sum techniques
- Creative dishes with modern twists
You'll find both:
- Classic staples like shrimp dumplings and cha siu bao
- Unique items like the banana shrimp rolls
Tips for Visiting
- Come with a group so you can try more dishes
- Order a mix of fried and steamed items
- Save room for the custard buns (trust me)
Got questions or comments? Drop them below!