In the summer heat, what you eat can make a big difference in how your body feels. While many reach for cold drinks and icy treats, Cantonese food culture offers a different and time-tested approach to staying cool and healthy: through seasonal eating focused on balance, nourishment, and freshness.
At Han Palace Georgetown, we proudly bring this tradition to life. As one of the best Cantonese restaurants in Washington, D.C., we offer a menu inspired by the wellness-centered cuisine of southern China—perfect for warm weather dining.
🌿 Cantonese People Know How to Eat Smart in Summer
In Guangdong, where summers are long, hot, and humid, people have developed a unique way of eating to stay balanced. Rather than relying on chilled or raw foods, Cantonese families turn to warm, gently cooked dishes that help the body regulate internal heat and support digestion.
This philosophy is called “yangsheng” (养生)—a way of living that emphasizes health preservation through food, rest, and balance. That’s why in the heat of summer, you’ll often find locals sipping hot soup and eating freshly steamed seafood—not cold salads or ice cream.
🥢 Light & Nourishing: Summer-Friendly Dim Sum
Dim sum is a perfect match for hot weather when chosen carefully. At Han Palace, we recommend dishes that are steamed, protein-rich, and easy to digest—ideal for summer energy without the heaviness.
Here are a few dim sum favorites to try this season:
- Steamed Shrimp Dumplings (Har Gow) – Light, delicate, and full of fresh shrimp flavor.
- Scallop Dumplings – Ocean-sweet and nourishing, scallops are gentle on the system.
- Beef Tripe with Ginger & Scallion – Warm and aromatic, perfect for digestion.
- Pan-Fried Turnip Cake – Made with radish, which is naturally cooling in traditional Chinese medicine.
- Steamed Chicken Feet – Rich in collagen, supporting skin and joint health.
Whether you’re enjoying brunch or a light afternoon meal, these dishes help you stay refreshed and energized, the Cantonese way.
🐟 Summer Seafood Selections That Nourish and Satisfy
Seafood is a summer essential in Cantonese cuisine—not just for its flavor, but for its health benefits. It’s high in protein, low in fat, and naturally cooling, making it ideal for hot-weather meals.
At Han Palace Georgetown, here are some top seafood dishes to enjoy this season:
- R3. Crispy Walnut Shrimp – A customer favorite with a crunchy finish and a touch of sweetness.
- R4. Steamed Chilean Sea Bass – Silky, tender, and delicately flavored; a luxury dish that feels light.
- R8. Salt & Pepper Scallop – Perfectly seasoned with a crisp edge; full of ocean flavor.
- R9. Salt & Pepper Soft Shell Crab – Light and crispy without being greasy; a standout summer item.
- R2. Roast Pork Oyster Casserole – A savory and aromatic combination that brings richness without heaviness.
- R5. Oyster Clear Noodle Casserole – With glass noodles and fresh oysters, this dish is both soothing and satisfying.
- R10. Seafood Casserole – A mix of ocean treasures, perfect for sharing.
- R11. Salt & Pepper Shrimp – Lightly fried with a kick of spice; simple and addictive.
- R12. Pan-Fried Chilean Sea Bass – For those who prefer a crisp exterior with buttery texture inside.
Whether steamed, stir-fried, or pan-seared, these dishes reflect the essence of Cantonese summer cooking—light, clean, and deeply satisfying.
🏮 Stay Balanced This Summer at Han Palace Georgetown
This summer, treat yourself to meals that not only taste amazing but also support your body’s natural rhythm. At Han Palace Georgetown, we’re proud to be recognized as the best dim sum in Georgetown, the best Chinese restaurant in Georgetown, and a leading destination for authentic Cantonese cuisine in Washington, D.C.
Join us for dine-in or order online for a refreshing Cantonese meal at home.
And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @hanpalace_dimsum for the latest dishes, dim sum photos, and seasonal specials.
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