Top Dumpling Destinations in London

Whether they serve their plump and juicy wares steamed, boiled, or pan-fried, no two dumpling shops are the same. The best dumplings in London are sold in myriad types of foodie establishments and range from traditional Cantonese, Shanghainese, and Taiwanese to modern interpretations. The capital has no shortage of authentic spots to satisfy any cravings.

Bun House, Chinatown

Inspired by old-school Hong Kong diners, hungry Chinatown visitors come here for stacks of steamed buns – the BBQ pork belly might be the classic, but we have a soft spot for the roasted mushroom and chestnut, too. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the sensational oozing liquid-custard buns for dessert. Mix your order with more substantial plates such as silken egg and prawn rice or wok-fried macaroni and beef. The team also operates a roaring takeaway trade, making this an excellent option for snacks on the go.

Address: Bun House, 26-27 Lisle Street, WC2H 7BA

Din Tai Fung, Covent Garden

The much-loved Taiwanese global chain now has two London restaurants (plus a concession in Selfridges), and it’s as delicious as ever. The elastic, transparent xiao long bao soup dumplings are so good that you will want to order two baskets. However, be cautious, as these little steaming hot parcels should be enjoyed with care. To avoid scalding your mouth, hold the dumpling in your soup spoon, poke a hole in the top to allow the steam to escape and cool for a few seconds. Then, enjoy them whole.

Address: Din Tai Fung, 5 Henrietta Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8PS

BaoziInn, Soho

Colourful dumplings, handmade with all-natural veggie colouring (beetroot, turmeric, and spinach), and prawn wontons doused in chilli oil are the highlights here. With an ever-popular restaurant in Soho, the team has also opened a branch in London Bridge.

Address: BaoziInn, 24 Romilly Street, Soho, London W1D 5AH

Red Farm, Covent Garden

A New York export, this playful dim sum joint does things very differently. There are more traditional Chinese dumplings on the menu, but no one is really here for those. Instead, be brave and order the colourful and playful Pac-Man dumplings, surprisingly delicious pastrami or cheeseburger spring rolls, and the truffle and chicken soup dumpling, which comes with a straw for slurping.

Address: Red Farm, 9 Russell Street, London WC2B 5HZ

My Old Place, Spitalfields

The doors to My Old Place open at 12pm. By 12.05pm, it’s full of locals. Here, it’s all about boiled, plump, handmade Beijing-style dumplings served on oversized plates. There’s an expansive menu, but focus on the standout dumplings, lamb cumin skewers, fried green beans with chilli and pork mince, and stir-fried thick egg noodles with cabbage and mushroom. The atmosphere is always bustling, making this a wonderful option for group dining at great value.

Address: My Old Place, 88-90 Middlesex Street, Spitalfields, London E1 7EZ

Dumpling Shack, Spitalfields

The brainchild of an ex-lawyer turned street food trader, Dumpling Shack is now one of the biggest stars on the London dumpling scene for good reason. After starting in Broadway Market on weekends, it quickly amassed a big following and now has a permanent site in Old Spitalfields Market. Expect long queues for the thick, doughy, handmade soup dumplings every lunchtime, with a special dinner menu that includes excellent hand-pulled noodles during the evening.

Address: Dumpling Shack, Old Spitalfields Market, Brushfield Street, Spitalfields, London E1 6BG

Yauatcha, Soho and The City

You’ll find the slick dumpling house Yauatcha in both Soho and the City, but head to the latter for a more spacious venue and relaxed service. There are lunch deals every Saturday that include all the best dim sum as well as welcome drinks and desserts. Don’t miss the sesame prawn toast, venison puffs, and crispy bean curd cheung fun.

Address: Yauatcha, Broadgate Circle, London, EC2M 2QS

Royal China, Marylebone

Specializing in traditional Cantonese-style dumplings, this place offers a genuine experience. Expect a mixture of business workers at lunch meetings during the week and families during weekends. Be sure to order classic dumplings such as har gow and shumai, barbeque pork buns, and fried turnip cakes. If you’re hungry, consider the lobster noodles with ginger and shallots. Reservations for tables are recommended.

Address: Royal China, 24-26 Baker Street, Marylebone, London W1U 3BZ

Dumpling’s Legend, Chinatown

Another must-visit for soup dumpling lovers, where you can even watch the intricate xiao long bao being handmade while you wait for your table. The xiao long bao comes in many varieties, including chicken, vegetarian, spicy, and crab, but sticking to the classic pork leads to the most authentic experience. Despite being best known for these delightful dumplings, there’s a vast menu to explore after enjoying your dim sum.

Address: Dumpling’s Legend, 5-16 Gerrard Street, London W1D 6JE

My Neighbour the Dumplings, Clapton

This former pop-up has settled into East London, with restaurants in Clapton and Victoria Park Village, plus a range of frozen dumplings available in trendy delis across town. As you’d expect from the name, some of the best dumplings in London take centre stage, including sweet classic prawn har gau, succulent pork and prawn siu mai topped with salmon roe, and a range of satisfyingly crispy potstickers stuffed with various delicious fillings.

Address: My Neighbour the Dumplings 165 Lower Clapton Road, London E5 8EQ; 178-180 Victoria Park Road, London E9 7HD

Dim Sum & Duck, King’s Cross

Dim sum and duck are the two specialties of this small but popular King’s Cross restaurant. There are no reservations, but it’s worth waiting to enjoy their fresh dumplings. Order a wide variety: Shanghai pork dumplings, chewy prawn dumplings, fragrant prawn with chives dumplings, slippery Cheung fun, and if you can, save space for that BBQ roast duck.

Address: Dim Sum & Duck, 124 King’s Cross Road, London WC1X 9DS