Indonesian-Style Grilled Dim Sum Arrives in Yala
Indonesian-style grilled dim sum has arrived in Thailand for the first time with DimBakar, a Betong-based restaurant serving charcoal-grilled dumplings topped with chicken, cheese, and chili for 45–55 baht.
Most people picture dim sum as soft, steamed dumplings fragrant with hot steam, made from time-honored recipes. But today's food scene has reimagined both the form and flavor, creating something fresh and exciting.
One trending street food that has become hugely popular in Indonesia is now arriving in Thailand for the first time: DimBakar, an Indonesian-style grilled dim sum restaurant and Thailand's first and only establishment of its kind, located in Betong District, Yala Province.
Owner Assawi explained the origins of this signature dish. Known in Indonesia as "Siomay Bakar" or "Dim Sum Bakar," it originated in Bandung, a city celebrated for its distinctive food culture and street food scene. With its perfectly balanced flavor and unique cooking method, this dish has become a beloved street food staple found in markets and communities throughout Indonesia, as popular as traditional local fare, and is now gaining worldwide attention.
"Impressed by the taste and seeing the opportunity, I brought the original recipe into Thailand and spent time carefully studying and adjusting the ingredients to maintain authentic flavor while perfectly matching Thai consumer preferences," Assawi said.
DimBakar's standout feature lies in its meticulous preparation and premium ingredients. The dough and filling are shaped from fresh, high-quality fish that provides a tender, firm texture and natural sweet aroma without being overly fishy. The dumplings are then grilled over hot coals and brushed until fully cooked, glazed with Indonesian cream sauce until fragrant smoke rises, stimulating the appetite beautifully.
Once the surface dries slightly and becomes crispy outside while remaining tender inside, various toppings are added based on preference: soft shredded chicken, spicy chili, stretchy melted cheese, and crispy seaweed—each adding complexity and appeal to the taste.
Despite such refined quality and technique, prices remain wallet-friendly, starting at just 45–55 baht.
DimBakar has set up a booth in Betong District, Yala, a southern border area that draws numerous Thai and foreign visitors, and has received overwhelming positive response.
If you're looking for a new dish with a story, distinctive flavor, and international appeal, don't miss the chance to experience DimBakar, Thailand's first Indonesian-style grilled dim sum. Follow the DimBakar Facebook page to track booth locations and schedules at festivals and events throughout the southern border provinces, and make this a memorable dining experience.
By Jesada Siriyothai
