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Top 10 Dumpling Restaurants in London

London's dumpling scene has exploded in recent years, transforming from a handful of Chinatown staples to a city-wide obsession spanning from Covent Garden to Battersea. Whether you're craving delicate xiao long bao, crispy potstickers, or hand-pulled noodles with plump wontons, the capital now offers an impressive array of dumpling destinations that rival any Asian food capital. Many of these spots have embraced modern dining experiences with platforms like DineCard offering digital menus via QR codes, making it easier than ever to explore their extensive dumpling collections.

DanDan Aldgate East
#10

DanDan Aldgate East

The Goodman's Field, 9 Stable Walk
4.8
5,697 reviews
£40 for two
Top RatedSpacious SeatingHand-Pulled NoodlesGroup Friendly
Must try:Beef Dumplings in Chilli Oil

DanDan's Aldgate East outpost has rapidly become one of East London's most beloved dumpling destinations with a stellar 4.8 rating and nearly 6,000 glowing reviews. The Goodman's Fields location offers a more spacious, contemporary setting than many dumpling spots, making it ideal for groups wanting to share multiple dishes from the extensive menu. Their signature beef dumplings in chilli oil strike the perfect balance of heat and flavour, while the hand-pulled biang biang noodles demonstrate serious noodle craft. The combination of quality, consistency, and reasonable prices has made this a staple for City workers and Tower Bridge residents alike.

Tattu London
#9

Tattu London

The Now Building Rooftop, Outernet
4.7
7,243 reviews
£70 for two
BarRooftop DiningInstagram-worthyCraft CocktailsRomantic Ambiance
Must try:Scallop and Prawn Dumplings

While Tattu is primarily known as a contemporary Chinese restaurant and bar rather than a dumpling specialist, their rooftop location in the Outernet building delivers an experience that transcends typical dumpling joints. The theatrical cherry blossom-adorned interior and craft cocktails create an upscale atmosphere perfect for special occasions, while their dim sum selection holds its own with beautifully presented prawn har gow and scallop dumplings. With over 7,000 reviews praising the vibe as much as the food, this is where you take someone when ambiance matters as much as authenticity. Book the evening slot for the full dramatic lighting effect that makes everything – especially the dumplings – look spectacular.

Ugly Dumpling
#8

Ugly Dumpling

1 Newburgh St, Carnaby
4.3
1,772 reviews
£35 for two
Central LocationQuick ServiceLunch SpotAffordable
Must try:Korean Fried Chicken Dumplings

The original Carnaby Street location that started the Ugly Dumpling phenomenon continues to draw crowds with its irreverent attitude and seriously good dumplings. The compact space near Oxford Circus fills up fast at lunch with Soho workers who've discovered that the chicken and sweetcorn gyoza are dangerously addictive. While the 4.3 rating is slightly lower than the newer Rathbone Place branch, the energy and atmosphere at this flagship location can't be beaten – there's something special about eating exceptional dumplings while people-watching on one of London's most iconic streets. Their Korean fried chicken dumplings blur the line between cultures in the best possible way.

DanDan Battersea
#7

DanDan Battersea

DanDan Battersea Restaurant, Moat St
4.9
705 reviews
£40 for two
Top RatedModern AmbianceSpecialty NoodlesInstagram-worthy
Must try:Pork and Crab Xiao Long Bao

With an exceptional 4.9 rating, DanDan's Battersea location is arguably serving London's best dumplings right now, tucked away in the revitalized Nine Elms neighborhood. Their Lanzhou-style hand-pulled noodles and soup dumplings showcase technical mastery, while the modern, airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows offers a refreshing departure from cramped Chinatown joints. The pork and crab xiao long bao are near-perfect specimens – delicate skins that hold generous soup and meat without breaking. It's become the go-to spot for South London food enthusiasts and worth the journey for anyone serious about dumplings.

Ugly Dumpling
#6

Ugly Dumpling

30 Rathbone Pl, London W1T 1JG
4.6
710 reviews
£35 for two
Innovative MenuCasual DiningCounter ServiceFusion Cuisine
Must try:Prawn and Chorizo Dumplings

Don't let the self-deprecating name fool you – there's nothing ugly about these dumplings, which have earned a devoted following at the Rathbone Place location. Ugly Dumpling's playful approach extends from their cheeky branding to creative fillings like their cult-favourite prawn and chorizo dumplings that shouldn't work but absolutely do. The vibrant, counter-service setup near Tottenham Court Road makes it perfect for solo lunches or casual dates, with bar seating overlooking the dumpling-making action. Their matcha and white chocolate dumplings for dessert are a sweet revelation that converts even the skeptical.

Xi Home Dumplings Bay
#5

Xi Home Dumplings Bay

43 Chandos Pl, London WC2N 4HS
4.5
2,113 reviews
£35 for two
Central LocationFamily FriendlyPre-Theatre DiningBudget Friendly
Must try:Pork and Chive Boiled Dumplings

The Covent Garden flagship of Xi Home Dumplings Bay brings their Sichuan specialties to the West End with a slightly more polished setting perfect for theatre-goers. With over 2,000 reviews, this location has earned its stripes serving consistently delicious boiled dumplings and noodle soups to both tourists and locals who appreciate quality at reasonable prices. The pork and chive dumplings are textbook perfect – thin wrappers, juicy filling, and that satisfying bite that signals proper technique. The location makes it ideal for groups splitting multiple plates before a show, and the efficient service means you won't miss curtain call.

Xi Home Dumplings Bay
#4

Xi Home Dumplings Bay

10 Blossom St, London E1 6PL
4.7
616 reviews
£35 for two
Spicy FoodLocal FavoriteCasual DiningQuick Bites
Must try:Chilli Wontons in Red Oil

The Blossom Street location of this mini-chain offers a quieter, more intimate dumpling experience in the heart of Brick Lane's food scene. Xi Home specializes in Sichuan-style dumplings that pack serious heat – their chilli wontons in red oil are not for the faint of heart but will convert spice lovers instantly. The 4.7 rating reflects consistently excellent execution of classics, from boiled dumplings to their exceptional hot and sour soup that's the perfect dumpling accompaniment. It's a neighbourhood favourite for casual dinners where conversation flows as freely as the house-made chilli oil.

YEYE‘S Noodle & Dumpling
#3
TOP 3

YEYE‘S Noodle & Dumpling

58 Wentworth St, London E1 7AL
4.8
1,977 reviews
£30 for two
Local FavoriteBudget FriendlyAuthentic CuisineQuick Service
Must try:Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings

This Spitalfields gem consistently tops dumpling lists with a near-perfect 4.8 rating, and one bite explains why – YEYE'S delivers authentic Northern Chinese comfort food that tastes like someone's grandmother is in the kitchen. The hand-pulled noodles are mesmerizing to watch being made, but the pan-fried pork dumplings with their lacy, crispy skirts are the real showstoppers here. The no-frills, casual atmosphere on Wentworth Street makes it ideal for quick lunches or post-market eating, with generous portions that leave you satisfied without breaking the bank. Locals swear by the chilli oil – ask for extra on the side.

Dim Sum Library
#2
RUNNER UP

Dim Sum Library

136 Long Acre, London WC2E 9AD
4.7
1,189 reviews
£45 for two
Instagram-worthyRomantic AmbianceLocal FavoriteInnovative Menu
Must try:Truffle Mushroom Dumplings

Tucked along Long Acre, Dim Sum Library elevates Chinese dumplings to art form status with innovative flavour combinations and Instagram-perfect presentation. Their truffle mushroom and wagyu beef dumplings showcase premium ingredients rarely seen at this price point, while the intimate 50-seat space creates an almost speakeasy-like atmosphere. With an impressive 4.7 rating, this is where food-savvy locals bring dates when they want to show off their dumpling knowledge – the crystalline har gow practically glow under the warm lighting. Book ahead for weekend brunches, as their bottomless dim sum deal is one of Covent Garden's worst-kept secrets.

Din Tai Fung Covent Garden
#1
BEST

Din Tai Fung Covent Garden

5 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8PS
4.5
9,369 reviews
£50 for two
Tourist HotspotInstagram-worthyOpen KitchenFamily Friendly
Must try:Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)

The Taiwanese dumpling empire's Covent Garden outpost brings Din Tai Fung's world-renowned xiao long bao to London's theatre district, and it's every bit as spectacular as the hype suggests. With over 9,000 reviews and a 4.5 rating, this is where dumpling dreams come true – watch chefs fold precisely 18 pleats into each delicate soup dumpling through the glass kitchen. The sleek, modern interior and central location make it perfect for pre-theatre dinners or impressing out-of-town visitors, though be prepared for queues at peak times. Their truffle and pork dumplings are a luxe upgrade worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best xiao long bao in London?+
Din Tai Fung Covent Garden is widely considered London's gold standard for xiao long bao (soup dumplings), with their legendary 18-pleat technique and consistently perfect execution. However, DanDan Battersea's pork and crab xiao long bao has earned a remarkable 4.9 rating and offers exceptional quality at a slightly lower price point, making it a serious contender for the title.
Where can I find authentic Chinese dumplings near Covent Garden?+
Covent Garden offers several excellent options: Din Tai Fung on Henrietta Street for world-famous Taiwanese dumplings, Dim Sum Library on Long Acre for innovative takes on classics, and Xi Home Dumplings Bay on Chandos Place for reliable Sichuan-style dumplings. All three are within a 5-minute walk of Covent Garden station and offer different price points and atmospheres.
What's the difference between dumplings at Din Tai Fung and local dumpling spots?+
Din Tai Fung represents the Michelin-recognized gold standard with precise 18-pleat xiao long bao, premium ingredients, and impeccable consistency, but at higher prices and with frequent queues. Local favourites like YEYE'S or DanDan offer equally delicious dumplings with more casual atmospheres, faster service, and better value – many locals argue the quality rivals Din Tai Fung at half the wait time.
Are there any dumpling restaurants in London with good vegetarian options?+
Dim Sum Library stands out for creative vegetarian dumplings including their truffle mushroom variety, while Ugly Dumpling offers unique veggie options like their sweetcorn gyoza. Most dumpling restaurants on this list offer at least 3-4 vegetarian options, with Xi Home Dumplings Bay's vegetable and mushroom dumplings being particularly well-reviewed by herbivores.
Which dumpling restaurant in London is best for groups?+
DanDan Aldgate East offers the most spacious seating with an extensive sharing menu perfect for groups, while Din Tai Fung Covent Garden's large space and comprehensive menu makes it ideal for diverse groups (though booking is essential). For a more upscale group experience with cocktails, Tattu London's rooftop setting and sharable dim sum platters create a more experiential dining atmosphere.

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