Xiaolongbao, often referred to as soup dumplings, is one of the most iconic dishes in Chinese cuisine. Known for its delicate dough, flavorful filling, and the rich broth inside, these steamed dumplings have earned their reputation as a must-try dish for both locals and visitors alike. However, not all xiaolongbao are created equal, and in the bustling food scene of China, there are places that stand out for making the most authentic and delicious versions of this dish.
Whether you're traveling to Shanghai, Suzhou, or other cities in China, or looking to try xiaolongbao in international locations, there are several key spots where you can taste the best examples of this beloved dish. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through some of the most renowned places to experience authentic xiaolongbao and the secret elements that make them truly special.
There is no better place to start your xiaolongbao journey than in Shanghai, the city where these dumplings originated. Known for their thin, translucent skin and savory soup, Shanghai’s xiaolongbao has set the standard for this dish around the world.
While Din Tai Fung has expanded to locations all over the world, its roots are deeply planted in Taiwan, and its Shanghai branches still serve some of the most iconic xiaolongbao. This restaurant chain is a favorite for both locals and tourists, offering perfectly shaped dumplings with a balance of savory filling and delicate soup inside. Din Tai Fung is famous for its consistency in quality and its approach to xiaolongbao-making. The dumplings are steamed to perfection, with a finely crafted dough that does not break under pressure.
What makes Din Tai Fung’s xiaolongbao special is the precision with which they create their dumplings. The dough is thin enough to let the soup flow out when bitten into, but not so thin that it falls apart. Each bite delivers an explosion of flavor, with a meaty or crab-based broth inside.
For a more traditional and local experience, Jia Jia Tang Bao is another popular spot for xiaolongbao enthusiasts in Shanghai. This no-frills restaurant has become a legend for serving some of the best xiaolongbao in the city. The dumplings here are filled with pork, and the broth is rich and flavorful. The restaurant is often crowded, with long lines of customers eager to get a taste of these delicious dumplings. The simplicity of the establishment and the consistent quality of the xiaolongbao make it a top choice for those seeking an authentic experience.
The xiaolongbao at Jia Jia Tang Bao are famous for their balance of flavor, texture, and broth. The dough is slightly thicker than at some other places, but it holds up better to the rich, savory filling, which includes a generous amount of soup that spills out when bitten into.
Located in the Yu Garden area, Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant is one of the oldest and most famous places in Shanghai to enjoy xiaolongbao. It is a historic institution, dating back to the 19th century, and is often regarded as the birthplace of Shanghai-style xiaolongbao. The restaurant's xiaolongbao is known for its paper-thin skin and savory broth, and the original recipe is still followed to this day.
The xiaolongbao at Nanxiang are filled with a mix of pork and a bit of crab meat, creating a delicate balance of flavor. What sets them apart is the signature rich, flavorful broth that gives the dumplings their iconic soup-filled center. Despite its long history and popularity, Nanxiang still provides an authentic and top-notch xiaolongbao experience.
Just an hour away from Shanghai by train, Suzhou offers a more subtle version of xiaolongbao, with a lighter and sweeter broth compared to the version found in Shanghai.
In Suzhou, Songhelou Restaurant is a must-visit for those looking to taste authentic Suzhou-style xiaolongbao. The dumplings here are made with a thinner skin, and the filling is usually a combination of pork and crab meat. The broth is lighter than the thick, hearty broth of the Shanghai-style xiaolongbao but still incredibly flavorful.
One of the unique aspects of Suzhou xiaolongbao is the method of serving them. In Songhelou, the dumplings are often served with a small bowl of broth that complements the soup-filled dumplings, making for a more balanced taste experience. The sweetness of the broth pairs perfectly with the tender filling, giving you a taste of Suzhou's more delicate approach to the dish.
For a more casual experience, Fengcheng Tangbao is a hidden gem in Suzhou known for serving some of the city's best xiaolongbao. Located in a quieter part of the city, this humble eatery serves dumplings with a clear broth that is aromatic but not overwhelming. The xiaolongbao here are perfectly steamed, with a balance of juiciness in the filling and a texture that holds up without being too chewy.
While Beijing is not traditionally known for its xiaolongbao, the capital city has embraced this dish, offering some unique twists that reflect the tastes of the north.
Just like in Shanghai, Din Tai Fung's Beijing locations continue to serve world-class xiaolongbao. The northern Chinese style of xiaolongbao typically involves a slightly firmer wrapper, which holds up better to the colder, drier northern climate. In Beijing, the dumplings are still filled with the same delicious, flavorful broth and high-quality meat fillings, making them a favorite of both locals and tourists.
For a northern take on xiaolongbao, Yaoji Chaogan in Beijing offers a variation of the traditional soup dumplings. Here, they serve xiaolongbao with a slightly thicker and richer broth, which is typical of Beijing’s northern flavor profile. The fillings are often pork and beef, making the dumplings heartier than their southern counterparts. The slightly thicker dough gives the dumplings a more substantial bite, while the soup inside remains rich and satisfying.
Xiaolongbao has grown in popularity internationally, with numerous restaurants around the world offering this delicious dish. However, finding the most authentic xiaolongbao outside of China can be challenging. That said, there are still some restaurants known for their commitment to traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients.
As mentioned earlier, Din Tai Fung has locations around the globe, including in places like New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Sydney. Although the restaurants outside of China may have slightly adapted their recipes to local tastes, Din Tai Fung’s international branches still offer a solid representation of the authentic Shanghai-style xiaolongbao. The dough is thin, the filling is juicy, and the broth remains flavorful. It’s an excellent option for those who want to enjoy xiaolongbao outside of China.
For those in the United States, Shanghai Xiao Long Bao in New York City is an excellent choice for a taste of authentic Shanghai-style dumplings. This restaurant is dedicated to bringing the flavors of Shanghai to the Big Apple, serving up deliciously soupy xiaolongbao with a delicate skin and flavorful filling. If you can’t make it to China, this spot is one of the best alternatives in the US for authentic xiaolongbao.
In Australia, Jin Jiang is a popular choice for those craving xiaolongbao. Located in Melbourne, this restaurant is known for making their dumplings from scratch, following traditional recipes passed down through generations. The xiaolongbao here are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the soup inside the dumplings is rich and savory.
What makes xiaolongbao so special? It's the combination of several key factors: the dough, the filling, and the broth. The dough must be thin but sturdy enough to hold the soup inside without breaking. The filling is usually a mix of finely ground pork, sometimes combined with crab or other seafood, and seasoned with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. The broth, which is what gives the dumplings their name, is a rich, flavorful liquid that’s made by simmering meat, bones, and other ingredients for hours. The broth is then solidified into a jelly-like consistency, which melts when the dumplings are steamed, creating the delicious soup inside.
Wherever you are, whether you’re in the heart of Shanghai or enjoying xiaolongbao in another part of the world, the joy of biting into these dumplings and experiencing the soup explosion inside is a taste you won’t forget.