Bo Lings chefs preparing signature Chinese dishes

Everything You’ve Wanted (and Need) to Know about Dim Sum . . . and Then Some

Although the literal translation of Dim Sum is “the point of the heart,” we know it as a large selection of appetizers such as dumplings, buns, rolls, meats and other side dishes. Traditional small dishes, tea and personal connections are the heart of Dim Sum and Bo Lings has offered this unique Cantonese tradition of gathering with friends and family since 1987. In fact, Richard and Theresa were the first to bring this dining style to the Midwest.

Dim Sum is usually a brunch or lunch meal, and you have many choices to choose from. Our homemade dumplings with a variety of fillings and our pork buns (either steamed or baked) are always especially popular.

Dim Sum items focus on several essential categories: Funn rolls, noodles, cold appetizer plates, porridge and soft tofu, roasted duck or pork and sticky rice, deep or pan-fried items, dessert and steamed items. The chef’s special plates include items like Gai Lan (Chinese broccoli), Crispy Shrimp, and BBQ Pork. There are bubble teas available in both creamy and Golden tea-based styles. You simply select the items you like!

Beginners at Dim Sum selections should be sure to enjoy the following:

  • Siu Mai (shrimp and pork dumpling)
  • Ha Gau (shrimp dumpling)
  • Steamed or Baked Roast Pork Buns
  • Chicken Spring Rolls
  • Shrimp Toast
  • Roast Duck
  • BBQ Roast Pork
  • Garlic Cucumber Salad
  • Shan Shui Gau (fried shrimp and pork pie)
  • Rice Noodles or Yellow Noodles
Dim Sum varietyFull Dim Sum Menu (PDF)

Dim Sum is available at our Overland Park location:

Dim Sum occurs every Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 3pm at the Overland Park North location on 89th & Metcalf.

All other locations carry two items on a daily basis: Siu Mai and Steamed BBQ Pork Buns.

Dim Sum is a great way to sample many traditional Cantonese items in smaller portions. We hope to see you soon!


Here’s what some of our customers are saying about Dim Sum:

“Fantastic dim sum, beautiful surroundings, meticulous service!” ~Mary Ann R.

“Best in KC! We don’t get to eat dim sum very often, but when we do we always go to the Bo Lings on the Plaza. Seating was quick and Daniel our main server was fantastic. Never had to ask for anything, he was just always there when we needed.” ~ Hannah K., Springfield, MO

“Enjoyed the Dim Sum on Saturday. This is the best way to eat Chinese food.” ~ Chrissy H.

“I am from out of town and would drive here to get Dim Sum. The food is wonderful! I like to come here on Sunday mornings because you can get the Dim Sum “cart style” (the servers roll a cart around with Dim Sum dishes) and you get to eat right away!” ~ Judy T.