Tai Tong Dim Sum, Penang: A Nostalgic Chinese Breakfast in George Town

🥢 The Atmosphere: Loud, Lively, Local

If you’re craving an authentic dim sum experience in Penang, Tai Tong Restaurant is a name that often comes up. Located right in the heart of George Town, this old-school Chinese eatery has been around for decades—and it feels like stepping into a time capsule of traditional Penang.

📍 Quick Info

Tai Tong Restaurant 大東茶樓

Address: 45 Lebuh Cintra, 10100 George Town, Penang

Best Time to Visit: Early morning on weekends (for full menu)

Specialties: Classic Cantonese dim sum

Tai Tong may not have fancy plating or modern café vibes, but it delivers where it counts—in flavor, nostalgia, and authenticity. Whether you're a dim sum veteran or a curious traveler, this place deserves a spot on your Penang food crawl.

Pro tip: Come early, bring friends to share more dishes, and don't be shy with the chili oil.

Tai Tong opens early and gets crowded quickly. Locals, tourists, families, and elders—everyone’s here for their dim sum fix. The setting is humble and functional, with round tables, stainless steel chairs, and push carts weaving through the aisles.

If you love chaotic charm and no-frills eateries, this is your spot.

🥟 What I Ate

Here’s what I managed to try during my weekday visit (some items were unavailable—more on that below):

• Har Gao (Prawn Dumplings) – Translucent skin, juicy prawns. Classic and done right.

• Siew Mai (Dumplings) – Hearty and flavorful.

• Liu Sha Bao (Egg Yolk Custard Bun) – Fluffy bun with sweet-salty filling.

• Loh Mai Kai (Sticky Rice Chicken) – Rich and savory.

• Egg Tart – Soft custard center with a light pastry shell.

I would’ve loved to try more, but some signature items weren’t available on weekdays. So if you’re going mainly for variety, weekends might be better.

• · Opening Hours: Early morning till about noon; dinner dim sum is also available.

  · Weekday vs. Weekend: Fewer items are available on weekdays, especially specialty dim sum.

  · Prices: Affordable and reasonable for the quality and portion.

  · Payment: Accepts cash and local e-wallets.

  · Seating: Shared tables are common when it’s full—so be open to that local experience!

🧾 Good to Know