Cantonese Dim Sum

Honolulu’s Chinatown, with a history stretching back more than 120 years, is often cited as the oldest in the United States. The neighborhood is alive with Chinese snack shops, bakeries, markets, and restaurants, shaped by successive waves of immigration and the rich resources of the South Seas. For authentic Cantonese dim sum in this area, Happy Garden is a standout.

This modest restaurant focuses on traditional dishes prepared in classic styles. Expect shrimp dumplings, bean curd skin filled with seafood, steamed pork bao, and fried pork intestines. The intestines are prepared slowly until tender, then briefly deep-fried to create a crisp exterior while retaining a melt-in-the-mouth interior—a textural contrast beloved by many dim sum fans.

Beyond flavor and technique, Happy Garden offers good value. Many plates are affordably priced, making it easy to sample a range of items. The restaurant also benefits from access to exceptionally fresh seafood, much of which is sourced locally and sold nearby, contributing to the overall authenticity and quality of the food. For diners seeking a true Cantonese dim sum experience in Honolulu, Happy Garden provides an unpretentious, traditional option.

Contact

1113 Maunakea St.
Honolulu, HI 96817
808.538.1088