Dumplings are some of the most iconic dishes that come with a myriad of delicious flavors and cultural influences into one convenient package. Whether it’s for a lunchtime snack or enjoying a delicious evening meal, there’s nothing quite like sampling the range of dim sum and dumplings available in New York City’s Chinatown and its many other neighborhoods!
From traditional Chinese dumplings to international gourmet flavors, NYC is the perfect place to enjoy a wide range of dumplings from countries around the world. Chinatown itself is a top-ranking destination for enjoying dumplings as there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an authentic Chinese experience or trying something more adventurous. So with this in mind, here’s our pick of the top places to eat dumplings in Chinatown and across NYC.
The Best Dumplings in Chinatown
Chinatown is the heart of New York’s rich dumpling culture, and here’s a few of the top-ranking places to get your fill of these tasty treats:
Joe’s Shanghai: This is one of the most popular places in Chinatown for enjoying traditional Chinese dumplings, with delicious handmade soup dumplings as its signature dish.
Nom Wah Tea Parlor: This classic Chinese restaurant has been open since 1920 and still serves its renowned dim sum and dumplings today.
Vanessa’s Dumpling House: Serving up a wide range of dumplings alongside its popular pork buns, Vanessa’s is a Chinatown classic that’s loved by locals and visitors alike.
Fuzhou Yuan: This modest eatery specializes in steamed pork dumplings and its chicken wings are highly rated too.
Other Must-Visit Dumpling Restaurants Across NYC
Chinatown is not the only place in NYC for great dumplings. Here’s a few of other spots across the city worth exploring:
Buddha Bodai: Situated in the heart of the Lower East Side, this popular vegan restaurant serves dumplings filled with veggies, mushrooms, and more to please its many health-conscious customers.
Chinese Tuxedo: Located in Manhattan’s Chinatown, this eatery-cum-speakeasy restaurant is inspired by traditional Cantonese cuisine, with a few of the top menu options being its pork and shrimp dumplings.
Scallion Pancake House: This classic Queens eatery serves up a flavorful selection of Northern Chinese-style dumplings alongside its signature pancakes, enjoyed by diners from far and wide.
Juvo: For a modern twist on traditional Chinese-style dumplings, Juvo’s globally-inspired pocket pies are just the ticket.
Best Dumpling Dishes for All Tastes
The range of dumplings available in NYC is extensive, so here’s a quick run down of some of the dishes you must sample and what to expect from each type:
Jiaozi (Chinese Dumplings): These are classic Chinese dumplings made from a wheat dough wrap (skinned or pan-fried) with a variety fillings, such as chopped meats, vegetables, and shrimp.
Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings): These boiled or fried dumplings usually have a pork and vegetable filling and are usually served with a dipping sauce.
Potstickers: These pan-fried dumplings have a variety of fillings and a crispy exterior.
Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings): These showstopping dumplings are filled with hot soup and a variety of meat and vegetables and are steamed in a pot.
Shu Mai: These steamed dumplings are usually filled with shrimp, pork, or vegetables and are served with a soy sauce.
Moneybag/Har Gow Dumplings: These fluffy dumplings are filled with shrimp, pork, or vegetables and usually steamed before serving.
No visit to New York City is complete without sampling the authentic Asian-inspired delicacies available across its many Chinatowns and beyond. With the various flavors, styles and fillings, the city’s range of dumplings is something special, so whether you’re a connoisseur or a dumpling beginner, be sure to sample this list on your next visit!
