Soft little parcels of amazing flavour. That’s perhaps one of the aptest descriptions that can be applied to dumplings. Whether you’ve tasted their splendour or not, you’re likely here for a reason, to find some of the best-tasting dumplings near you.
The trouble is, with a category as wide-reaching as ‘Dumpling’, it can be extremely difficult to find those truly stand-out restaurants and locations that serve them.
And, of course, dumpling can mean different things to different peoples. For example, ‘Dumpling’ can refer to Bao dumplings from China, or Gyoza dumplings from Japan. Then there’s Nepal’s Momos. All of which adds another layer of tantalising, but daunting, choice.
If you’re based in the Brisbane area and want to find the best of the best when it comes to dumplings, you are definitely not alone.
We love dumplings so much that we put together this comprehensive guide to the absolute best spots to find dumplings in Brisbane. Prepare to whet your appetite, and read on.
Donna Chang
Location: Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane, Shop 3/171 George Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: (07) 3243 4888
We start our tour of the best dumpling in Brisbane with an establishment that knows all about marrying the old and the new.
Donna Chang is committed to bringing the traditional beauty of dumplings right into the modern world.
That’s not all they serve though. Donna Chang focuses on both Cantonese and Sichuan foods. This creates an amazing Asian blend that you simply can’t try anywhere else.
The restaurant is located within the heart of Brisbane, in a beautiful, classically styled building that is even listed as a heritage site. Despite serving largely modern food, the surrounding building helps to give the cuisine a distinctly classical and traditional feel.
This restaurant has a massive array of dumpling options that will satiate any appetite for Asian cuisine. Make sure to try the dim sum, packed to the brim with flavour, and encased within a soft shell.
They even have an array of Gluten-Free options, so any of your friends and family with dietary needs can experience dumplings for themselves.
If the many dish approach of yum cha works for you, then you’d probably also love our High Tea recommendations
Steamed
Location: 95 Turbot Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: 0425 125 900
Now let’s move on to a restaurant with a totally different atmosphere. That said it still has some of the best dumplings in Brisbane.
If you want something down-to-earth, with no bells and whistles, and solely focused on creating the greatest flavours possible, then you need to pay a visit to Steamed Dim Sum.
This restaurant may be smaller than Donna Chang, but it more than makes up for its wondrous food.
True to its name, this restaurant is committed to giving you the most authentic dumplings at an affordable price. When you visit, make sure to try the Chicken Donggu, as they have an excellent spicy kick to get your taste buds going.
If you want something vegan, then try the Zen option, which contains a mix of mushrooms, tofu, cabbage, and ginger. Healthy and vibrant!
And to finish your meal off with a soft palate cleanser, make sure to try the custard dumplings. These pillowy beauties contain a hearty helping of soft and creamy custard inside. The perfect finale to any dumpling meal.
Does this talk of a custard-filled dumpling make you think of sweet treats? Here are some of our top Traditional Chinese Dessert Recipes.
Mo Charcoal Alley
Location: Carseldine Central, Shop 19/735 Beams Road, Carseldine, QLD 4034 Ph: (07) 3075 8102
Mo Charcoal Alley falls right in the middle of our last two entries. Its surroundings are incredible, and the restaurant features a beautiful entrance made of lightly tanned bamboo.
However, despite this, it still offers truly affordable prices and still doesn’t sacrifice quality.
The menu at Mo Charcoal Alley is extensive and can serve people of all ages and tastes. Here the offerings come with immense flavours, exciting ingredients and traditional dishes.
Of course, also included within this menu is a selection of dumplings. The fried dumplings, in particular, are a stand-out. These crispy delights have various fillings, such as pork, vegetables, and prawns. They are definitely amongst the best dumplings in Brisbane.
Editor’s Note: Sadly, we’ve heard that Mo Charcoal Alley has closed. We will let you know if we learn more.
For spicy, beautifully balanced dishes, try our Best Thai Restaurants in Brisbane
Madame Wu
Location: Riparian Plaza, Upper Plaza Level, 71 Eagle St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: (07) 3229 5070
Madame Wu has truly created some of the most innovative dumplings we have ever seen. You’ll definitely want to give compliments to the chef when you try them out for yourself.
Amongst the gems on this menu are traditional steamed duck buns. These feature incredibly tender duck marinated in the best flavours ever. If you want more of a seafood-inspired vibe, then try the Pan-Fried Scallop Dumplings.
These dumplings also feature Tobiko – a Japanese flying fish roe. The Tobiko gives the dumplings a rich savoury taste that pops in your mouth with every single bite. It’s an umami rollercoaster for your taste buds!
However, we haven’t even reached the star of the show. Introducing the Wagyu dumplings. If you’ve never tried Wagyu beef before, then you are definitely in for a treat. Wagyu beef has an incredibly tender texture that melts on your tongue.
As well as this, it also has a mind-blowing flavour that will have you wanting even more.
Wrapped within a dumpling skin and served with a large helping of celeriac puree, you have yourself the perfect introduction to Wagyu heaven. And you can enjoy all of this food while overlooking the Brisbane River from above. Perfect.
Love seafood, but lack the confidence to cook it yourself? Here are some of our go-to Seafood Recipes.
Mei Wei Dumplings
Location: Treasury Casino and Hotel Brisbane, Top of Queen St Mall Treasury Casino Building, Level 1, George St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000
With an authentic-sounding name like ‘Mei Wei Dumplings’, it’s unlikely you’ll go wrong at this restaurant.
This restaurant has the most extensive selection we’ve seen yet. And of the hundreds we’ve already tasted for ourselves, we can tell you that every single dish would satisfy your dumpling cravings.
Want some dumplings with soup? Try the Prawn and Pork Wonton soup, which has a massive array of flavours, just from two unique types of meat! Mei Wei Dumplings also has a great selection of Dim Sum dishes to choose from. There are all kinds of shapes and sizes and winners such as vegetable dumplings, and Shao Mai, which are pork and prawn dumplings.
No matter what your favourite meat is, or if you are vegetarian, there’s something here that you will love.
Mei Wei dumplings is housed in a large, airy restaurant, with lots of seating space to sit and take in the amazing flavours that await you. Like the dining room, the food is presented with style and grace. Pop this place on your list of the top dumplings in Brisbane.
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Impressive Dumplings
Location: Shop 6/22 Gowan Rd, Sunnybank Hills, QLD 4109 Ph: 1800 696 888 See Website for Further Locations
Clean, bright and spacious, Impressive Dumplings in Sunnybank serves great flavoursome dumplings with a point of difference. At this venue, the food is delivered by state-of-the-art robot waiters.
In addition, the team here dye the dumpling wrappers in a range of striking colours. The result is food that looks as appealing as it tasty. If you want to wow your dinner guests, the Steamed Rainbow Dumplings are as pretty a basketful of goodies as you’ll ever get between your chopsticks.
Are you heading to Sydney and think a few dumplings might hit the spot? See our guide to the Best Dumplings in the Harbour City.
The Golden Pig Restaurant & Cooking School
Location: 38 Ross Street, Newstead, QLD 4006 Ph: (07)3666 0884
Your jaw will be on the floor before you even step foot inside of the Golden Pig. This Brisbane favourite has earned itself a stellar reputation amongst locals. Try it for yourself, you’ll soon understand why.
Within the amazingly designed restaurant is an incredible cacophony of Asian cuisine that will have your mouth-watering just at the thought of what you are about to eat.
Dumpling options include the Pork and Chive dumplings, which come with a dry chilli and Sichuan pepper sauce. This condiment has a fiery kick that is surprisingly addictive.
Southside Restaurant
Location: 63 Melbourne St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Ph: (07) 3067 7269
This restaurant is truly modern and cutting edge. Just the interior decor alone is enough to demonstrate this.
Concrete pillars contrast with wooden planks to create a look that is simultaneously inspired by nature but also infused with a brutalist look.
It truly creates something special, and the wide windows allow in lots of natural light, to give the restaurant an airy but cosy vibe.
Southside has a large range of dim sum to select from. In fact, you might be a bit overwhelmed by the incredible choice.
We strongly recommend trying the Lobster and Chive Har Gow. This has a fabulously luxurious – and delicious – treat and one of the top dumplings in Brisbane.
Of course, the Japanese also know their way around a dumpling. They have their beloved gyoza. For the best Japanese Restaurants in Brisbane, see our recommendations.
King Tea
Location: 100 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington, QLD 4064 Ph: 0455 513 011
We couldn’t overlook the next eating place in our guide to the best dumplings in Brisbane.
King Tea is truly incredible. We actually have trouble trying to put into words just how good this restaurant is. But for you guys, we’ll do our best!
Have you ever tried to make dumplings at home? It’s easy to do and a fun inter-active activity if you have kids, or guest over for a dinner party. Make sure you get your dumplings (and ravioli and wontons and more) right every time with these dumpling making accessories.
King Tea is situated within a large almost warehouse-like building with a high roof, and a rustic feel throughout. The walls feature exposed brickwork, and the wooden beams that support the roof are fully visible.
And this is to say nothing of the food! Wow. King Tea has an impressive range of dim sum that are perfect for every conceivable appetite. We recommend the Sam Sun Wonton. These flavour-bombs are small parcels of beef, prawn, and pork, floating within a delicate duck consomme soup.
Are you looking for a great Steak House in Brisbane? See our recommendations
Harajuku Gyoza
Location: Queen Street Mall, 141 Queen St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: (07) 3210 1231 & 184 Grey St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Ph: (07) 3844 5502
So far, we’ve mostly only touched on dumpling restaurants that follow the traditional Chinese style. So let’s try something a little bit different.
Harajuku Gyoza is situated within Fortitude Valley, and is focused on creating the perfect Japanese Gyoza. These are small crescent-shaped parcels stuffed with savoury ingredients, and cooked in a variety of ways.
Some gyoza are fried to create a crispy treat, while others are lightly grilled, giving a crispy texture along the bottom. The crispy bottom is a brilliant contrast to the soft texture of the rest of the gyoza. The result is a surprising combination of textures within every single bite.
No matter which filling you choose for your gyoza, you’ll find yourself impressed at how versatile the humble dumpling actually is.
Japanese food is just about the savoury you know. Here are some of the yummiest Traditional Japanese Desserts.
New Shanghai
Location: LG 23/226 Queen St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000 Ph: (07) 3108 7652
New Shanghai first found its start in the Metropolitan area of Sydney, where news quickly spread of their amazing dumpling treats.
Multiple locations opened up in the area, and soon customers from all over the world were flocking to see what the fuss was all about.
Finally, they opened a Brisbane location, so all of the clamouring locals can now experience this dumpling heaven themselves. And already, it’s on our list of the must-try dumplings in Brisbane.
New Shanghai is proud of its Chinese heritage and seeks to bring the best flavours from the country right to your plate. This includes traditional dishes infused with a modern twist and a massive array of dumplings.
Our pick for the best dish is definitely the pork belly bao, which is heavenly soft, and will melt away with salty flavour across your mouth, to have you satisfied from the word go. Though you likely won’t want to settle for just one dumpling!
Chinese cuisine is famous for its ‘nose to tail’ ethos. Especially when the animal being eaten is the pig. Here are some of our favourite Pork Belly Recipes.
Chu The Phat
Location: 111 Melbourne St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Ph: (07) 3255 2075
Even if the dumplings here were poor, the punny name would get this place mentioned amongst the best dumplings in Brisbane. But don’t worry, the dumplings are fab.
Asian fusion is the name of the game with Chu The Phat. True to its name, this is the perfect place to take family and friends to chat and catch up, while also chowing down on some of the best dumplings in town.
This restaurant even serves a range of exciting cocktails, to make for an exciting night out. These cocktails are all specially created to pair magnificently with every single dumpling option on the menu.
Want the very best of what Chu The Phat has to offer? Make sure to try out the Wagyu dumplings.
As we’ve already mentioned, Wagyu beef is amongst some of the most decadent foods on the face of the Earth, so you can’t go wrong with a yummy dumpling packed to the brim with it!
Fancy yourself as a bit of a mixologist? Here are some Cocktails for you to try at home.
Fat Dumpling
Location: 2 King Street, Bowen Hills, QLD 4006 Ph: (07) 3216 1261 & 370 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006 Ph: (07) 3195 1040
Again, with a name like this, we had to find this eatery a spot on our best dumpling in Brisbane list.
Fat Dumpling, unsurprisingly, has a fat selection of amazing dumpling dishes specially designed to get your appetite going. Your taste buds will love you for deciding to dine here.
Fat Dumpling distinguishes between four distinct types of dumplings on their menu. These are:
- Chong Dumplings, which are poached and served with a large helping of soy sauce.
- Zheng Dumplings, which are classically styled, and steamed within traditional bamboo baskets.
- Jian Dumplings, which are pan-fried to feature that amazing crispy bottom.
- Bao Buns, which are soft, squishy, and perfect for savouring every crumb.
You truly can do no wrong ordering at Fat Dumpling. Their extensive menu that can satisfy both dumpling aficionados and those looking to try dumplings for the first time.
Whether you’re searching for a great breakfast or a simple cake and coffee, these are our top Cafes in Brisbane
Little Red Dumpling
Location: 5/61 Hardgrave Rd, West End, QLD 4101 Ph: (07) 3846 0400 See Website for Further Locations
Little Red Dumpling prides itself as the ‘Little, Local Dumpling Bar’. There’s no pretence or extravagance here, just plain good eating from masters of the craft.
Sit down at their table and they will ply you with a selection of cold beers and other drinks, while you wait for your yummy dumplings to arrive fresh from their kitchen.
Did you know that you can steam dumplings in most modern air fryers? In fact, you can do loads of things – bake, roast, dehydrate and, of course, fry – in an air fryer. For more information and prices, see here.
You would be remiss to not try the Lamb Coriander Dumplings. These red tinted parcels are packed with ingredients. Bite into one and all that delicious filling comes spilling out.
Want to try a spectrum of flavours? Then check out the Rainbow Dumpling set. This option comes with 2 of each of the five dumpling flavours. It’s the dumpling answer to a packet of Skittles and amongst the best selections of dumplings in Brisbane.
Many of us love savoury Asian dishes, but aren’t so knowledgable when it comes to desserts. Take a look at our Filipino Dessert Recipes and see if any appeal.
Bamboo Basket
Location: 21/39 Hercules St, Hamilton, QLD 4007 Ph: (07) 3268 3886 & 1003-1004/199 Grey St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101 Ph: (07) 3844 0088
The signature dish at Bamboo Basket is the Xiao Long Bao. You’ll soon see why they are the signature after you’ve tasted them for yourself. These are steamed dumplings that are filled with cuts of tender pork and filled with soup.
This creates a deeply warming and refreshing flavour explosion that you couldn’t possibly try only once.
It takes great skill to make perfect Xiao Long Bao, so no wonder Bamboo Basket is rated as making some of the finest dumplings in Brisbane.
If you want to expand your choices outside of dumplings, you can also taste the restaurant’s massive range of other dishes. Stand-outs include their handmade noodles. These are crafted with love and care every single day by the dedicated and passionate chefs.
Any trip to Bamboo Basket is a surefire way to get your fix of the best of Asian cuisine. And every time you visit, you’ll likely find a new favourite dish, thanks to the extensive menu.
Like slurping noodles? Try these recommendations for Ramen Restaurants in Brisbane.
This is why I decided to set up my blog, Eatability, to share the best food and drink spots in Australia with as many people as possible. Hi, my name is Dylan Cole, and I moved to Australia five years ago from England, UK.
Through this blog, I will be sharing and recommending some of my favorite places you need to visit, such as where to find the best pizza in Adelaide, and the best bakery in Brisbane. Whatever food you are fancying, I have got you covered!
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