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United Dumplings
Master Critic Review
United Dumplings
8.1
Neighborhood-favorite Northern Chinese spot where handmade dumplings, potstickers, and noodles anchor a casual Bernal Heights hang. Expect brisk counter-style pacing, family-friendly service, and a tight menu that hits comfort without shortcuts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pan-fried pork potstickers, Beef & celery dumplings, Dan dan noodles
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Handmade dumplings from a mom-owned team with neighborhood warmth.
Who should go: Families and casual dumpling fans
When to visit: Early dinner or late lunch to avoid lines
What to order: Pork potstickers; beef & celery dumplings; dan dan noodles
Insider tip: Order a mix of steamed and pan-fried to compare textures.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Cortland Avenue and nearby residential blocks; typically manageable before 6:30 pm but fills quickly during dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and tees are fine; family-friendly vibe with no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—steady conversation buzz during peak dinner hours but still easy to talk across the table.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during prime hours; faster for small parties or takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 1:00 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several dumplings and noodle dishes are vegetarian-friendly, including mushroom and chive dumplings.
Vegan options: Limited—most wrappers contain egg, but vegetable fillings can be adapted if you call ahead.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free options; most dumplings and noodles contain wheat.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual hangouts than formal dates—laid-back counter vibe and quick pacing make it ideal for relaxed, shared bites rather than long dinners.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only; arriving before 6:30 pm or after 8:00 pm avoids most waits. Takeout moves quickly if seats are full.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—families with young children frequent it; high chairs available, quick service, and approachable dishes like potstickers and noodles.
Best For
Better for: Handmade dumplings that feel homemade but refined—more care in texture and flavor than most quick-service Chinese spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for full dim sum carts or an upscale sit-down experience—this is a casual counter-service neighborhood spot.