Dim sum is an integral part of Chinese cuisine, closely associated with the tradition of yum cha, or taking tea. Dim sum means "small heart", suggestive of a small snack that touches the heart. Dim sum can be found all over China and in many parts of the West, where dim sum is a popular meal.

Dim sum consists of a variety of dumplings, steamed dishes and other goodies. In general, individual portions of dim sum are small, so that numerous dishes can be ordered and sampled by the table.

Usually, a dim sum meal begins with light steamed dishes, such as har gau, followed by heavier fried items including pot stickers or egg rolls. Then exotic foods are brought out, and the meal finishes with sweets for dessert. This order is not always rigidly observed, although it sits better in the stomach than a jumble of foods. Dim sum is also accompanied by a small tray of condiments, which usually includes sesame oil, fermented black beans, soy sauce, and other similar ingredients in which the dim sum can be dipped.