Overview
Dumpling Empire prides itself on giving guests a culinary tour of China. From Shanghai, you can enjoy handmade xiao long baos. From Sichuan, there are spiced noodles. And from Guandong, you can sample bamboo steamed rice dishes. It is the kind of joint with a team of chefs from all over, so you know whatever you order is going to be authentic and traditional.
There interior here is simple yet elegant, with your typical unassuming furniture dressed up with lanterns and splashes of red. The service is welcoming and kind but the focus is definitely on the food before anything else.
The menu kicks off with light snacks to get the mouth watering, including pork xiao long baos and spring onion pancakes. The dumpling menu includes classics such as prawn and chicken dumplings and pan-fried steam buns, while vegetarians can order the vegetarian option. If you're after noodles, there are steamed pork and fish meatball soups, along with pork tripe or stewed lamb noodle soups. Rice dishes include deep fried chicken with special sauce or the classic bamboo steamed black bean and fish with chilli rice.
The mains are where Dumpling Empire really shines, with perfectly balanced flavours and very generous servings. The pick of the bunch is the stir-fried grab which is lightly flavoured with ginger and spring onions. Pair this with a serve of Chinese broccoli and you are well on your way to one of the best Chinese meals you've had in your life.
Information
- Melbourne's Best Dog-Friendly Parks and Beaches for the Ultimate Pup Time
- Fifteen of the Most Unique Stays You Can Book Around New Zealand
- The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels, B&Bs and Self-Contained Getaways in Victoria
- The Mightiest Tiny Houses You Can Book Around NSW
- The 27 Best Private Dining Rooms in Melbourne
- The 40 Best Restaurants for Group Bookings in Melbourne