In Malaysia, dim sum is typically viewed as a breakfast or brunch meal. This is most evident with how the popular dim sum spots are packed in the morning and the afternoon. However, dim sum is actually a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Late-night dim sum?
In fact, there are some places in the Klang Valley where you can enjoy dim sum in the wee hours of the morning. One such place is the ever-popular Restoran Sing Pao Dim Sum on the Old Klang Road.
Located in the same row as the famous Kim Lian Kee Fried Hokkien Mee place, this dim sum shop is quite an unusual one. For one, it opens at 6 pm rather than in the morning like other places. It also closes at 3 am!
Needless to say, this is definitely a dinner and supper spot for folks with late–night cravings. What if you are one of those folks? Well, hop on over here and see just what might tickle your fancy here.
A place for supper
Unlike most popular dim sum shops, Sing Pao is never overcrowded. Most of the customers here are office workers getting a quick meal after a long day of work. Either that or they don’t see the point of getting stuck in the evening jam.
Thus, getting a seat here is often not a problem. Like many old-timey restaurants, outside seating is also available. If you are fine with sitting outside on the pavement or the road, you will likely feel right at home.
Once you are seated and have your drink orders taken, a worker will likely come up to your table with a large tray of warm treats Just take your pick, and he will be off on his way. That is, until someone else comes to your table a few minutes later to see if you want extras.
A good dim sum variety
The variety of dim sum here is quite respectable, with over 50 types served on a typical night. Some of these are rather old-school, made according to 40-year-old recipes kept by the owner. All are made in fresh batches daily, so nothing on your plate is going to be stale.
Bacon & Lala
Of the bunch, the ones that caught my eye were the Bacon Wrap and the Lala with Pork & Prawn Stuffing. The Bacon Wrap was a nice little porky treat, with the bacon oozing with juice. The Lala, on the other hand, had a strangely fragrant aroma and an equally good taste.
Salty & subtle
Another eye-catching dim sum was the Salted Egg Pork. These little bundles of joy were a savoury treat, which went well with the Veggie Tauhu. This one has more subtle flavours, perfect if you don’t intend on feeling full too fast.
Something strange, something classic
The Corn Fishball is somewhat of a strange sight, being a fishball pocked by yellow corn bits. If you like a bit of crunch, this is the thing for you. The Lo Bak Gou, meanwhile, is a pretty classic offering, and its fried exterior is matched by a chewy inside.
It’s big, it’s bao
If you want to get stuffed, the Dai Bao is a no-brainer. This steamed dumpling has an impressive size and is generously filled with meat. Though one person can handle its size, it may be best to share it with others.
Worth your time?
Overall, whether you have a late-night craving or need a quick dinner, dropping by Sing Pao Dim Sum couldn’t hurt. With good food and decent service, you will likely leave satisfied and stuffed in equal measure.
Restoran Sing Pao Dim Sum
Address: No. 16, Batu 4½, Old Klang Rd, 58000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Opening Hours: 6 pm – 3 am daily | Closed on Tuesdays
Contact: 017-6223227
Halal Status: Non-halal
You should also check out: This dim sum place in George Town is Penang’s oldest — here’s how it sends you to the 1950s
