Uncle Wah Review – Bedminster, Bristol, South West England

Looking for one of the best places for dim sum in Bristol or the South West? Uncle Wah Dim Sum, located on North Street in Bedminster, offers a bold, colourful take on traditional Cantonese cuisine. Combining eye-catching presentation with warm service, this neighbourhood gem has been gaining fans for its creative Chinese dishes and welcoming vibe, so much so that a second location in Gloucester Road is already open.

A colourful feast with room to grow

First Impressions: Atmosphere & Location

Conveniently located on North Street in Bedminster, Uncle Wah’s dining room is small but stylish. Wall panelling, exposed bricks, and softly glowing wall mounted lamps give the space a modern yet nostalgic feel. While it can get a bit crowded during peak times, the friendly team and thoughtful layout keep things moving smoothly. We were there late afternoon so we missed the lunch crowd.

If you’re looking for an easy-going lunch spot in Bedminster or a Chinese restaurant in Bristol, this place should be on your radar.

Uncle Wah Menu Highlights: What to Order

The Uncle Wah menu is focussed on sharing family recipes, showcasing comforting Cantonese flavours with a modern twist. While not solely a dim sum restaurant, Uncle Wah offers a strong dim sum selection alongside full-sized mains and house specials. On our visit, we sampled a mix of classic and creative dishes:

Seafood Rainbow Dim Sum Platter 海鲜点心拼盘
Vegan Mapo Tofu 素麻婆豆腐
Roast Duck Noodle 鸭肉汤面

Seafood Rainbow Dim Sum Platter

A real showstopper. This dish is made for sharing and snapping—expect squid-ink har gau with gold leaf, shrimp dumplings topped with salmon caviar, and a full palette of bright-coloured dim sum.

Taste-wise, each bite is generously filled with well-seasoned seafood. However, the skins were slightly thick, missing the delicate balance often found in top-tier dim sum. Still, it’s a worthwhile order for a special lunch or casual date in Bristol.

Vegan Mapo Tofu

One of the best dishes of the day. This plant-based version of the Sichuan classic delivers big on flavour—deep umami from fermented soy bean paste, the right level of heat, and tofu that holds its shape. Mushrooms and peppers add depth and texture, making it a smart and satisfying vegan option in Bristol’s Chinese food scene.

Roast Duck Noodle Soup

A slight miss. The broth lacked depth, and the roast duck, while acceptable, didn’t quite deliver the crispy richness we’d hoped for. If you’re visiting for the first time, we’d recommend sticking to the dim sum, or some of the other options.

Service and Experience

Service was friendly and efficient. Tea arrived quickly, and dishes were paced well. Staff were happy to explain the menu and make recommendations—ideal for newcomers to dim sum or anyone trying something new.

Is Uncle Wah Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you’re looking for a dim sum restaurant in Bristol or the South West with style and substance. Uncle Wah Dim Sum offers a flavourful, approachable, modern Chinese dining experience rooted in family heritage. It’s perfect for a relaxed lunch, a casual dinner, or a foodie date.

If you’re after an authentic taste of Cantonese cooking with less focus on interiors and more on technique, Nice Spice might still be your best bet. But for atmosphere, friendly service, and a creative twist, Uncle Wah delivers.

Pro tip: Avoid the lunch and dinner rush—come mid-afternoon for the best chance of walking in without a wait.