Sydney’s Love Affair with Dumplings

Sydney is a city obsessed with dumplings. Whether it’s the delicate xiao long bao bursting with hot broth, crispy pan-fried potstickers, or silky wontons drenched in chili oil, there’s something deeply satisfying about these bite-sized delights. The best part? You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy them.

With Sydney’s rich multicultural food scene, dumpling lovers can find authentic and affordable options in Chinatown, the inner west, and even suburban gems. From hole-in-the-wall eateries to bustling dumpling houses, here’s your ultimate guide to the best cheap dumplings Sydney has to offer.

The Best Dumpling Spots in Sydney

1. Dumpling and Noodle House (Kingsford)

Why it’s great: This no-frills joint is famous for its handmade dumplings, made fresh daily in full view of diners. The portions are generous, and the prices are unbeatable.

Must-try dumplings:

• Pork and chive boiled dumplings
• Pan-fried pork dumplings
• Spicy wontons in chili oil

Price range: $10-$15 for 12 dumplings

Vibe: Casual, BYO-friendly, great for students and late-night eats.

2. Shanghai Night (Ashfield)

Why it’s great: A legendary spot in Sydney’s ‘dumpling capital,’ Ashfield. Shanghai Night is known for its juicy, flavour-packed dumplings served at wallet-friendly prices.

Must-try dumplings:

• Xiao long bao (soup dumplings)
• Pan-fried pork buns
• Vegetarian dumplings

Price range: $9-$14 for a plate of dumplings

Vibe: Bustling, casual, and perfect for a quick dumpling fix.

3. Din Tai Fung (CBD, Chatswood, Miranda)

Why it’s great: While it’s more polished than your typical budget dumpling spot, Din Tai Fung offers top-tier dumplings at reasonable prices. Their xiao long bao are internationally renowned for their thin, delicate skin and rich broth.

Must-try dumplings:

• Xiao long bao (signature soup dumplings)
• Shrimp and pork wontons
• Truffle dumplings (for a splurge)

Price range: $12-$18 for 6-10 dumplings

Vibe: Modern, clean, and great for small groups.

4. Lao Zhao Good Luck Dumpling (Hurstville)

Why it’s great: This hidden gem is a local favourite, serving handmade dumplings bursting with flavour. The prices are low, and the quality is top-notch.

Must-try dumplings:

• Beef and coriander dumplings
• Fried pork and cabbage dumplings
• Steamed chicken dumplings

Price range: $8-$14 for 12 dumplings

Vibe: Cozy, authentic, and great for takeaway.

5. Chinese Noodle House (Haymarket)

Why it’s great: Famous for its dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, and quirky plastic grapevine decor, this Chinatown institution is perfect for a cheap and cheerful meal.

Must-try dumplings:

• Pork and prawn dumplings
• Boiled lamb and coriander dumplings
• Spicy wontons

Price range: $10-$14 for 12 dumplings

Vibe: Loud, lively, and full of character.

6. Mama Liu’s (Newtown)

Why it’s great: A trendy yet affordable dumpling spot in the heart of Newtown. Mama Liu’s offers classic and creative dumpling flavours with a modern twist.

Must-try dumplings:

• Vegan mushroom and truffle dumplings
• Sichuan-spiced pork dumplings
• Cheeseburger dumplings (a fun fusion!)

Price range: $12-$16 for a plate of dumplings

Vibe: Hip, vibrant, and perfect for a casual night out.

7. North Dumpling House (Chatswood)

Why it’s great: A beloved institution on Sydney’s North Shore, serving consistently good dumplings with rich, flavourful fillings.

Must-try dumplings:

• Chicken and sweet corn dumplings
• Boiled pork and prawn dumplings
• Vegetarian pan-fried dumplings

Price range: $10-$17 for a plate

Vibe: Relaxed, family-friendly, and always buzzing.

8. Fei Jai (Potts Point)

Why it’s great: A contemporary Cantonese eatery with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. While slightly more upmarket, Fei Jai still offers great value.

Must-try dumplings:

• Pork and scallop siu mai
• Prawn har gow (steamed dumplings)
• Spicy beef dumplings

Price range: $15-$20 for a plate

Vibe: Intimate, stylish, and perfect for date night.

Honourable Mentions & Hidden Gems

• Taste of Shanghai (Eastwood, Burwood, World Square) – Consistently good dumplings with a focus on traditional Shanghai flavours.
• Yummy Dumpling House (Chatswood) – A hidden gem serving authentic Northern Chinese-style dumplings.
• New Shanghai (CBD, Chatswood, Bondi Junction) – Popular for its juicy xiao long bao and pan-fried pork buns.
• Dixon House Food Court (Chinatown) – A haven for budget-friendly dumpling stalls with fantastic value.
• Mr. Chen’s Dumpling Bar (Parramatta) – Offers some of the best pan-fried dumplings in Western Sydney.
• The Eight (Market City, Haymarket) – A yum cha favourite that also serves excellent dumplings.

Dumpling Etiquette & Tips

To truly enjoy Sydney’s dumpling scene, here are some tips:

• Eat xiao long bao properly: Pick them up gently with chopsticks, place them on a spoon, and bite a small hole to let the steam escape before slurping the broth.
• Dipping sauce balance: Mix soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of chili oil to enhance the flavour.
• Don’t overorder: Dumplings are filling! Start with a few varieties before going all in.
• BYO options: Many dumpling spots are BYO, so bring along a nice cold beer or a bottle of wine to complete the experience.
• All-you-can-eat deals: Some places offer dumpling feasts, so check for special offers and happy hour discounts.
• Dumpling origins: From Cantonese dim sum to Northern-style jiaozi, understanding the origins of your dumplings can enhance the experience.
• Late-night spots: Some of the best dumpling joints stay open late—perfect for post-drinks eats!

Sydney is a dumpling lover’s paradise, with affordable and delicious options scattered across the city. Whether you’re after traditional handmade dumplings, modern fusion flavours, or a late-night fix, there’s a spot to suit every craving and budget.

Have a favourite dumpling spot we missed? Drop a comment below and let us know! For more of Sydney’s best eats, check out iluvaussie.com for more food recommendations.