North of the Yangtze, it’s all about wheat instead of rice. Named after China’s northeasternmost region, this beloved chain serves hand-rolled wheat dumplings stuffed with savory pork or fresh veggies and boiled until the center is juicy. As delicious as the pork jiaozi are, the vegetarian dumplings might be the real stars: Try the tangy mushroom and bok choy dumpling or the green pepper, cilantro, and white cabbage. Warning: Prices here are scandalously cheap, so you’re probably going to order...a lot. Locals also love the stir-fried eggplant and potatoes (di san xian) and smashed chicken (xiang su ji).
shanghai dumplings with spinach steamed in bamboo basket.
Konrad Zelazowski/age fotostock
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Dong Bei Four Seasons Dumplings
They’ve got more than just dumplings on the menu, but you’ll want to be sure that you order at least a plate of the delicious pork filled pockets at Dong Bei Four Seasons Dumplings (or three). This northern fare is hearty and cheap. The menu is in English and there’s pictures, so unlike some of the local dumplings joints, you should have no trouble ordering here. The only challenge will be deciding which dumplings to order!
