Petite Dumpling
ZipPicks Awards
Best Chinese in Park Slope
Best Dim Sum in Park Slope
Master Critic Review
Petite Dumpling
8.3
Compact Cantonese dim sum spot serving translucent-skinned har gow and delicate soup dumplings you won't find elsewhere in the neighborhood. The chicken sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaf and mala cucumber salad round out a focused menu perfect for a quick lunch near the Park Slope library.
Must-Try Dishes:
Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings), Pork Soup Dumplings, Chicken Sticky Rice
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Authentic Cantonese dim sum with thin-skinned dumplings rarely found outside Chinatown
Who should go: Dim sum devotees seeking quality without the Chinatown trek
When to visit: Early lunch before the tiny space fills up
What to order: Har gow, soup dumplings (eat in only—they don't travel), sticky rice
Insider tip: Skip soup dumplings for takeout—they're only worth it when eaten immediately
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 5th Ave, metered spots on side streets; easier before noon
Dress code: Come as you are - casual neighborhood spot, no dress code
Noise level: Moderate buzz - can hold a conversation but expect lively lunch crowd energy
Weekend wait: 15-25 min at peak hours; no reservations, first-come first-served
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 5-10 min
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - clearly marked options including Shiitake Mushroom Dumplings with pumpkin rice, Vegetable Ban Mein, Tofu Puffs, sautéed bok choy
Vegan options: Moderate - several marked vegan dishes including veggie dumplings and vegetable noodles; confirm preparation with server
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice dishes and some steamed items work, but most dumplings contain wheat wrappers
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual third date than a formal first impression. The tiny space means close quarters with neighbors, and QR-code ordering feels practical rather than romantic. Great if you both love dumplings and want low-pressure vibes.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. Arrive early for lunch (before 12:30pm) or off-peak dinner (before 6pm) to minimize waits. The space is small so peak times can mean a short wait at the door.
Is it kid-friendly? Excellent for kids who like dumplings. Reviewers note NYC toddlers handle the mala cucumber's mild spice just fine. Heads up: no high chairs available per recent reports, so bring your own booster if needed. Wonton soup and chicken sticky rice are reliable kid favorites.
Best For
Better for: Authentic thin-skinned Cantonese dim sum without the Chinatown or Flushing trek. Outshines other Park Slope options for har gow quality and soup dumpling execution. Fast, affordable, and unpretentious - perfect for a quick solo lunch or casual family meal.
Skip if: You want a lingering date-night atmosphere or need to accommodate large groups. Space is genuinely petite with limited seating. Also skip for takeout soup dumplings - they don't survive the trip home.