The Absolute Best Dumplings In San Diego

As a San Diego native, I’ve spent years chasing the perfect dumpling, savoring every bite from Convoy Street to Little Italy. The best dumplings in San Diego offer more than just a meal; they’re a journey through bold flavors, delicate wrappers, and heartwarming traditions. Whether you’re a local foodie or a traveler seeking culinary gems, this city’s dumpling scene is a must-explore. From juicy xiao long bao to crispy potstickers, each spot tells a unique story. With San Diego Nav as your guide, you’ll uncover cozy eateries and vibrant dining rooms where quality shines. Why settle for ordinary? These handcrafted delights promise satisfaction in every bite. Expect generous portions, fresh ingredients, and service that feels like family. My list, crafted with a local’s love, highlights top spots based on taste, authenticity, and real diner feedback. Get ready to dive into San Diego’s dumpling culture, where every dish is a small work of art.

Top Dumpling Destinations in San Diego

Din Tai Fung

Address: 4301 La Jolla Village Dr #2000, San Diego, CA 92122
Phone: (858) 375-5988
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Renowned for xiao long bao with delicate, soup-filled wrappers.
Offers generous portions that satisfy hearty appetites.
Features a variety of savory and sweet dumplings for diverse palates.
Provides exceptional service with attentive, knowledgeable staff.
Includes complementary sides like cucumber salad to enhance the meal.

What makes a dumpling unforgettable? Stepping into Din Tai Fung, I’m greeted by a sleek, bustling atmosphere that hums with anticipation. This Taiwanese chain, a global icon, earns its place on any best dumplings in San Diego toplist with consistency and craft. The xiao long bao, a signature, arrives steaming, each pocket bursting with rich pork broth or crab-infused elegance. The truffle pork variant is a masterpiece, blending earthy depth with silky soup. Portions are ample, leaving no one hungry. Their spicy wontons, draped in chili oil, deliver a fiery yet balanced kick, with tender wrappers and fresh shrimp that melt in your mouth. The preparation is precise, showcasing top-tier ingredients. Staff here are warm and efficient, guiding me through the menu with ease and ensuring dietary needs are met. For dumpling lovers, Din Tai Fung is a pilgrimage. Its flawless execution and vibrant flavors make it a San Diego must-visit.

Dumpling Inn & Shanghai Saloon

Address: 4625 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: (858) 268-9638
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Specializes in classic Chinese dumplings with bold flavors.
Known for pork and chive dumplings as a crowd favorite.
Offers hearty portions perfect for sharing.
Serves unique sides like spicy noodles to complement meals.
Boasts a welcoming staff that enhances the dining experience.

Can a cozy spot steal your heart with dumplings? Dumpling Inn’s warm, unpretentious vibe feels like a hidden gem on Convoy, securing its spot on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. The pork and chive dumplings are a revelation, juicy and fragrant, while the beef curry dumplings surprise with their spiced depth. Portions are generous, ideal for group feasts. Their hot and sour soup, a standout side, arrives steaming and tangy, with fresh tofu and wood ear mushrooms that delight the senses. The kitchen’s use of quality ingredients shines through. Servers are friendly and attentive, often sharing tips on pairing dishes, making me feel right at home. Locals and visitors alike should try this spot for its authentic charm and robust flavors. Dumpling Inn proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.

Meet Dumpling

Address: 8043 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: (858) 900-2377
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 8 PM daily

Highlights:

Excels in handmade dumplings with soft, thin wrappers.
Features scallop and shrimp dumplings as a signature.
Provides satisfying portions for solo or group dining.
Offers fresh side dishes like shredded potato salad.
Known for prompt, courteous service in a small setting.

What’s the secret to a perfect dumpling? Meet Dumpling’s intimate, inviting space draws me in, earning its rank on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. Their scallop and shrimp dumplings are a delicate triumph, with sweet seafood notes, while the carrot and beef version offers earthy warmth. Portions are just right, leaving me content. The marinated beef side, tender and savory, is cooked to perfection, with fresh herbs that spark joy. Ingredients feel straight-from-the-market fresh. The staff, kind and engaged, make every visit personal, happily accommodating special requests. For a cozy dumpling fix, this spot is unmatched. Its authentic recipes and heartfelt service make Meet Dumpling a San Diego treasure.

Harumama Noodles + Buns

Address: 1901 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 269-7123
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Famous for cute character buns with playful designs.
Offers savory pork buns as a top pick.
Serves generous portions with vibrant flavors.
Includes creative sides like salmon poke salad.
Delivers lively, attentive service in a fun setting.

Ever tasted a dumpling that’s almost too cute to eat? Harumama’s vibrant, whimsical dining room in Little Italy captivates, landing it on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. Their pork character buns are a flavor explosion, with juicy filling, while the sweet custard buns charm with creamy richness. Portions are substantial, perfect for sharing. The ramen noodle side, brimming with fresh veggies, is cooked just right, offering a comforting slurp. Quality ingredients elevate every bite. Servers are cheerful and proactive, ensuring a seamless experience with menu suggestions. Families and foodies should visit for the playful creativity and bold tastes. Harumama’s unique spin on dumplings makes it a standout.

Jasmine Seafood Restaurant & Express

Address: 4609 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: (858) 268-0888
Website:
Hours: Open from 10 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Specializes in Cantonese-style dumplings during dim sum.
Known for shrimp har gow as a star dish.
Offers plentiful portions for group dining.
Serves classic sides like egg tarts for variety.
Features professional, warm service in a spacious venue.

Craving dim sum dumplings done right? Jasmine Seafood’s elegant, bustling space feels like a celebration, earning its place on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. The shrimp har gow is translucent perfection, bursting with fresh shrimp, while the sweet rice dumplings offer sticky indulgence. Portions are ideal for sharing. Their egg tart, a side delight, is flaky and creamy, with a custard that melts on the tongue. Fresh ingredients are evident in every dish. The staff, polished and welcoming, elevate the experience with quick service and menu expertise. For dim sum enthusiasts, Jasmine is a top pick. Its authentic Cantonese flair and generous dishes make it a San Diego gem.

Steamy Piggy

Address: 4681 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: (858) 412-6266
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Offers fusion-style dumplings with modern twists.
Known for spicy pork xiao long bao as a standout.
Provides hearty portions for bold appetites.
Includes unique sides like truffle fries.
Features engaging, friendly service in a trendy space.

What’s a dumpling without a little spice? Steamy Piggy’s hip, energetic vibe draws me in, securing its spot on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. The spicy pork xiao long bao is a fiery delight, with bold broth, while the sweet taro buns balance with creamy sweetness. Portions are satisfyingly large. Their truffle fries, a surprising side, are crisp and aromatic, with fresh herbs that wow the palate. Ingredients are top-notch. Servers are lively and attentive, making every visit fun with their enthusiasm. For adventurous eaters, Steamy Piggy is a must. Its innovative flavors and vibrant energy make it a San Diego favorite.

JCK Asia Kitchen & Bar

Address: 4646 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: (858) 256-0828
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights:

Excels in pan-fried dumplings with crispy bottoms.
Features pork and leek dumplings as a highlight.
Offers ample portions for group meals.
Serves savory sides like scallion pancakes.
Known for courteous, efficient service in a modern setting.

Can a crispy dumpling steal the show? JCK Asia Kitchen’s sleek, inviting space impresses, earning its place on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. The pork and leek dumplings are golden and juicy, while the sweet red bean buns offer comforting warmth. Portions are perfect for sharing. Their scallion pancake, a stellar side, is flaky and fragrant, with fresh green onions that delight the senses. Quality ingredients shine. The staff, professional and warm, enhance the meal with quick responses and menu insights. For crispy dumpling fans, JCK is a top choice. Its balanced flavors and modern flair make it a San Diego standout.

Hi Dumplings

Address: 4231 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92117
Phone: (858) 999-0366
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 8 PM daily

Highlights:

Specializes in homestyle dumplings with bold fillings.
Known for shrimp and pork dumplings as a favorite.
Offers satisfying portions for any appetite.
Includes fresh sides like cucumber salad.
Provides genuine, friendly service in a cozy space.

What makes a dumpling feel like home? Hi Dumplings’ warm, homely atmosphere welcomes me, landing it on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. The shrimp and pork dumplings are juicy perfection, while the sweet sesame balls burst with molten delight. Portions are just right. Their cucumber salad, a refreshing side, is crisp and tangy, with fresh herbs that spark joy. Ingredients are clearly high-quality. Servers are kind and attentive, treating me like family with their warmth. For comfort food lovers, Hi Dumplings is a gem. Its heartfelt dishes and cozy vibe make it a San Diego must-try.

Formoosa

Address: 4646 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: (858) 277-2388
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Offers Taiwanese-style dumplings with delicate flavors.
Known for beef noodle soup dumplings as a signature.
Provides generous portions for hearty meals.
Serves unique sides like braised tofu skin.
Features welcoming, efficient service in a casual setting.

Ever tried a dumpling that feels like a hug? Formoosa’s cozy, laid-back space charms, earning its spot on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. The beef noodle soup dumplings are a creative marvel, with rich broth, while the sweet taro dumplings offer velvety sweetness. Portions are filling. Their braised tofu skin, a standout side, is tender and savory, with fresh spices that amaze the palate. Ingredients are top-tier. The staff, friendly and quick, make dining here a breeze with their attentiveness. For Taiwanese flavor fans, Formoosa is a must-visit. Its authentic dishes and warm service make it a San Diego highlight.

Shan Xi Magic Kitchen

Address: 4344 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: (858) 565-2688
Website:
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights:

Specializes in Shanxi-style dumplings with bold spices.
Known for lamb dumplings as a top dish.
Offers hearty portions for group dining.
Includes savory sides like spicy noodles.
Provides engaging, warm service in a vibrant space.

Can a dumpling transport you to another region? Shan Xi Magic Kitchen’s lively, aromatic dining room captivates, securing its place on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist. The lamb dumplings are a spiced masterpiece, with tender meat, while the sweet red bean dumplings offer comforting richness. Portions are generous. Their spicy noodles, a fiery side, are cooked to perfection, with fresh veggies that thrill the tastebuds. Ingredients are clearly fresh. Servers are enthusiastic and helpful, enhancing the meal with their knowledge. For bold flavor seekers, this spot is ideal. Its unique Shanxi style and vibrant dishes make it a San Diego star.

Why San Diego’s Dumplings Are a Must-Try

San Diego’s dumpling scene is a culinary treasure, blending tradition with innovation to create unforgettable bites. From the silky xiao long bao at Din Tai Fung to the spiced lamb dumplings at Shan Xi Magic Kitchen, each spot on this best dumplings in San Diego toplist delivers authentic flavors and generous portions. Why choose just one? With San Diego Nav, you can explore cozy Convoy Street haunts or vibrant Little Italy gems, each offering fresh ingredients and heartfelt service. My journey as a local foodie confirms these eateries are top-tier, backed by glowing diner reviews on platforms like Yelp and Tripadvisor. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, these dumplings promise satisfaction in every bite. Dive into this foodie adventure and discover why San Diego’s dumpling culture is a global standout. Your taste buds will thank you.