Sea Palace's dim sum menu is extensive, with over 30 varieties available during dim sum hours (12-4 PM). The dumpling wrappers are made fresh daily, and fillings include classic pork, shrimp, chicken, and seasonal vegetables. Reviewers highlight the quality and freshness as comparable to Hong Kong dim sum.
Tips from diners
Dim sum is served until 4 PM with carts rolling through the dining room. Arrive before 2 PM to get the full selection — popular items sell out by 3 PM.
If you've never done dim sum, ask your server to bring a variety of 2-3 pieces of different items so you can sample the range.
Peking duck is Sea Palace's signature — the whole duck is roasted until the skin crisps and separates from the meat. It arrives carved, served with soft crepes, sweet hoisin, and fresh cucumber and scallion. Reviewers consistently call it the best dim sum duck available in Europe.
Tips from diners
Peking duck is served for 2 people minimum — order one and share across the table. The presentation is as much part of the experience as the taste.
Ask the server how to wrap the crepes — it's a technique. Thin pancake first, then sauce, then meat and vegetables.
Plump shrimp and scallop in delicate steamed wrapper.
Tips from diners
These sell out quickly during dim sum service. Flag down the cart as soon as you see them.
Soft egg noodles with tender beef in soy sauce and ginger.
Tips from diners
Noodle dishes are great for lunch after dim sum if you're still hungry. They arrive quickly — about 10 minutes from order.
Curated dim sum selection with Peking duck for two.
Tips from diners
The set menu for €41-51 per person is the best value if you're unsure what to order. It gives you a complete dim sum and Peking duck experience.
Sea Palace opened in 1984 as Europe's first floating restaurant, featuring an ornate Chinese pagoda exterior. The restaurant sits on the IJ River with 600 seats across three floors, all designed to resemble an elaborate Chinese vessel. The kitchen focuses on authentic Cantonese cuisine — dim sum is served daily until 4 PM, and the Peking duck and Sichuan dishes are prepared fresh in-house daily.
Sea Palace is visually stunning from outside — the floating pagoda exterior is iconic. Arrive 10 minutes early to photograph the building before heading upstairs.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Walk-ins are accepted but can face 30-60 minute waits during peak times (12-2 PM for dim sum).
Dim sum hours are noon to 4 PM daily. Peak crowds are 12-1 PM and 2-3 PM. Arrive at 11:45 AM or after 3 PM for quieter service.
Dim sum pieces are €3-5 each. A full dim sum lunch for one person costs €15-25. Peking duck doubles that price per person. Budget €30-50 per person for a full experience.
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