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Shanghai Dumpling King
Master Critic Review
Shanghai Dumpling King
8.5
Duboce Triangle outpost of the Shanghainese standby known for xiao long bao and chewy stir-fried rice cakes. Late closing hours make it a reliable post-show dumpling fix with quick counter service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), Stir-Fried Rice Cakes (chao nian gao), Pan-Fried Pork Buns (shengjian bao)
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Handmade XLB and rice cakes served late with steady quality.
Who should go: Dumpling fans craving post-event eats
When to visit: After 9pm; lines thin but kitchen still humming
What to order: XLB, pan-fried pork buns, rice cakes with pork
Insider tip: Ask for extra black vinegar and ginger—staff will oblige.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking along Church and Duboce; best luck after 9pm when nearby businesses close. No valet or lot available.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—most guests come in hoodies or jeans, especially for late-night visits.
Noise level: Moderate buzz from open kitchen and chatter; still easy to hold a conversation at small tables.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak dumpling runs after 8pm; faster service for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; half-filled dining room and quick turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several solid options like veggie dumplings, sautéed greens, and fried rice.
Vegan options: Limited – vegetable dumplings and sautéed bok choy, but most items use egg or broth.
Gluten-free options: Minimal – wheat-based wrappers dominate the menu; steamed greens are safest choice.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves dumplings and doesn’t mind a casual setting. The focus is on flavor, not atmosphere—think comfort over romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it’s first-come, first-served. Even late-night you’ll likely find a table within 15 minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—fast service, shareable plates, and mild options like fried rice make it easy for families, though space is tight for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Late-night handmade XLB and rice cakes—few spots in the city keep this level of dumpling quality after 10pm.
Skip if: You want fine-dining ambiance, cocktails, or gluten-free options—this is a dumpling shop first and foremost.