We Found 12 Amazing Spots for Soup Dumplings in Houston And We’re Now Shaped Like One (Worth It!)

The first time I had a soup dumpling, I was unprepared. I popped the whole thing in my mouth, expecting a typical dumpling experience.
What I got was an explosion of hot, savory broth that went everywhere – down my chin, on my shirt, across the table. It was messy, it was chaotic, and it was absolutely delicious.
That’s the thing about soup dumplings (or Xiao Long Bao, as they’re traditionally known): they’re an experience! Each delicate parcel holds a flavor explosion and luckily, our city offers some of the best XLB in the country.
In this article, let’s explore the top spots for soup dumplings in Houston! From hidden gems in Montrose and family-owned restaurants in Chinatown to trendy Chinese food chains across the city, we’ll take a look at restaurants serving up these brothy bites!
Trendy Dumpling
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Website: https://trendydumpling.com/
Address: 3285 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 750-9398
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Price Range: $$
If you’re craving flavorful soup dumplings and delicious Sichuan cuisine, Trendy Dumpling is the place to be. Located in the Greenway area, this modern restaurant has been serving up mouthwatering dishes since 2019.
The soup dumplings here come in a variety of fillings, with the classic pork soup bao being a favorite! The pork filling is delicate and flavorful, though you may need to add a bit of sauce to enhance the flavor.
But soup dumplings aren’t the only thing worth trying here. You’ll also find a great selection of other dumplings, such as the hot & spicy dumplings, which are a fantastic option if you’re looking for something with a little more heat.
Pro Tip: The restaurant is BYOB and allows you to bring your own beverage, so you can pair your spicy dishes with your favorite drinks! |
Wanna Bao
Website: https://wannabao.com/
Address: 2708 Bagby St, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 623-7265
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM
Price Range: $$
Wanna Bao is a must-visit for soup dumplings in the city! This modern, family-style restaurant brings together the best of two Chinese culinary traditions: Shanghainese and Szechuan.
The classic shrimp soup dumplings are a crowd favorite, but the restaurant has recently introduced chicken soup dumplings for those who prefer a lighter alternative to the traditional pork filling.
Aside from the dumplings, there are other standout dishes worth exploring. The sizzling pork belly is a fan favorite, known for its crispy texture and rich, savory sauce. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, the holy spicy dumplings are a must-try.
Pro Tip: For a great experience at home, order takeout, as their packaging is excellent! Your food will arrive hot and intact. |
Hi Trendy Dumpling
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Website: https://hitrendydumpling.com/
Address: 107 Yale St #600, Houston, TX (in Walmart Supercenter)
Contact Details: (713) 426-9011
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Price Range: $$
Hi Trendy Dumpling in the Heights is definitely worth checking out for soup dumplings! Known for its fresh and flavorful dishes, this Sichuan restaurant is also a sister to Trendy Dumpling!
Their Soup Bao is packed with a rich, savory broth that bursts in your mouth with every bite. They’re a fan favorite, and for good reason! The Pan Fried Bao is another standout, with its crispy exterior and soft, juicy interior.
If you’re craving for some dessert, they offer a Chocolate Soup Bao! It’s just like their Soup Bao except the filling is sweet, decadent chocolate. Be careful when you bite so you don’t spill the chocolate on your shirt!
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting, try to arrive during off-peak hours to avoid the rush. The restaurant gets busy during dinner time, and it’s nice to have a quieter, more relaxed meal. |
Auntie Chang’s Dumpling House
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Website: https://www.auntiechangsdumpling.com/
Address: 2621 S Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX (in Shepherd Square)
Contact Details: (713) 524-8410
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9:45 PM; Friday to Saturday – 11 AM to 10:15 PM; Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9:45 PM
Price Range: $$
For soup dumpling enthusiasts, Auntie Chang’s Dumpling House is a hidden gem! It’s a traditional Chinese restaurant and is known for its menu full of classic Chinese dishes and of course, dumplings!
The standout dish at Auntie Chang’s is undoubtedly the soup dumplings and is a must-try for anyone who enjoys authentic Shanghai-style xiao long bao that has rich, flavorful broth that bursts with each bite.
You can also try their General Tso’s Chicken (which actually has a nice kick of spice!) and Sesame Chicken, both of which are crowd-pleasers. If you’re looking for a bit of variety, their boneless duck with shrimp meat and vegetables is another popular option!
Pro Tip: The soup dumplings are a dine-in exclusive, so plan to eat at the restaurant if you’re after these delicious treats. |
Duck n Bao
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Website: https://ducknbao.com/
Address: 5535 Memorial Dr suite o, Houston, TX (in The Shops on Memorial)
Contact Details: (832) 849-1783
Operating Hours: Monday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9:30 PM; Friday to Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM; Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Price Range: $$
Duck n Bao in the Rice Village area should definitely be on your radar if you’re craving delicious soup dumplings in Houston! This cozy yet modern restaurant offers a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, with a special focus on Peking duck and soup dumplings.
The soup dumplings here are a standout, holding a generous amount of flavorful soup. For a touch of luxury, try the Black Truffle with Pork Soup Dumplings—each bite delivers a subtle hint of truffle, perfect for those looking to elevate the experience.
Equally impressive is the Peking Duck, which is expertly prepared with perfectly crispy skin and tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. Unlike many other places, Duck n Bao serves the duck with thin pancake crepes, making it a lighter alternative to the typical bao buns.
Pro Tip: Try other standout dishes like the wagyu bao or crystal shrimp dumplings! |
One Dragon Restaurant 上海弄堂里
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Website: https://www.one-dragon-restaurant.com/
Address: 9310 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX (in Metropole Center)
Contact Details: (713) 995-6545
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM; Monday – Closed
Price Range: $$
Nestled in the heart of Chinatown, One Dragon Restaurant is a small, family-run gem that’s renowned for serving some of the best soup dumplings in the city! In fact, people visit their restaurant just for the XLB!
Their version of Soup Dumplings have delicate, thin wrappers that encase a juicy, flavorful broth that’s a burst of comfort with every bite. Whether you’re a first-timer here or a regular, their xiao long bao will undoubtedly become your new favorite.
But their menu offers much more than just dumplings! If you’re in the mood for something hearty, the Braised Pork Belly is tender and savory, cooked to perfection in traditional Chinese style.
Pro Tip: Be aware that this is a small space with limited seating—around 10 tables total—so expect a wait, especially during busy hours. |
Dough Zone Dumpling House Houston Uptown
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Website: https://www.doughzonedumplinghouse.com/
Address: 1700 Post Oak Blvd Suite 1-250 Floor 2, Houston, TX (in BLVD Place)
Contact Details: (832) 991-8349
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Price Range: $$
Dough Zone Dumpling House is the spot to hit if you’re on the hunt for some of the best soup dumplings in the city! A West Coast favorite since 2014, this food chain has been making waves in Houston and satisfying diners with traditional Chinese comfort food!
Of course, the star of their menu is the Soup Dumpling! Their version is filled with savory broth and a mix of tender pork or crab. The dough is delicate, and when you bite into them, you’ll experience the perfect burst of broth that makes them a fan favorite.
You can also try other popular dishes like the Dan Dan Noodles. This spicy noodle dish has just the right amount of heat and a flavorful sesame sauce. If you’re in the mood for something crispy, the Pan-fried Dumplings will not disappoint!
Pro Tip: Some dishes at this restaurant have frozen versions you can take home! Just ask your server for more information. |
Dumpling World
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Website: https://www.dumplingworldtx.com/
Address: 166630 El Camino Real, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (281) 786-1114
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Price Range: $$
Dumpling World offers a variety of comforting Chinese dishes, but they specialize in dumplings, noodles, and pan-fried buns! Whether you’re a fan of juicy, broth-filled xiao long bao or crispy pan-fried buns, this spot is for you.
Their Pork and Shrimp Soup Dumplings are a must-try. These dumplings are large, generously filled with rich, flavorful broth that’s sure to impress.
Another standout is the Pan Fried Pork Soup Dumplings. These dumplings have a crispy bottom that contrasts nicely with the juicy, tender filling and hot, savory broth inside. Each bite is a perfect mix of textures and flavors!
And for something on the lighter side, their Garlic Green Beans are a delightful side dish, perfectly seasoned and topped with savory bits of pork.
Pro Tip: The staff at Dumpling World is friendly and happy to recommend dishes you may not consider. The Eggplant & Minced Pork Noodle is a great example of a dish you might overlook but will end up loving. |
Xiaolong Dumpling
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Website: https://www.visithoustontexas.com/listings/xiaolong-dumpling/31978/
Address: 1901 Taft St, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 699-6161
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 9 PM
Price Range: $$
Xiaolong Dumpling in the Montrose neighborhood has grown a loyal following of XLB fans and it’s no surprise! This cozy bistro has quickly become a local favorite, thanks to its authentic Szechuan dishes and its flavorful take on soup dumplings!
The Soup Dumplings are a highlight and one of the best you’ll find in the city. They’re fresh, juicy, and packed with flavor. Alongside the dumplings, don’t miss the Beef Flat noodles, which are another fan favorite. The noodles have just the right amount of bite!
For those who love Szechuan heat, the Spicy Chicken Cubes and Spicy Edamame are excellent choices. The chicken is tender, with a great peppercorn flavor, while the edamame is a perfect starter with its mouth watering sauce.
Pro Tip: For those dining with kids or anyone who prefers less spice, Xiaolong Dumpling offers plenty of non-spicy options, so everyone can find something they’ll love! |
Taste of Mulan
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Website: https://tasteofmulan.com/
Address: 510 Gray St D, Houston, TX (in Midtown Crossing)
Contact Details: (346) 293-9188
Operating Hours: Monday to Tuesday – 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM; Wednesday to Sunday – Closed
Price Range: $$$
Taste of Mulan in Midtown might just be your next go-to spot for your soup dumplings cravings! This restaurant delivers a solid selection of dim sum and classic favorites, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
While they have an extensive menu that includes dishes like Kung Pao Chicken and Truffle Duck, the Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao) stand out as a must-try. These dumplings are filled with a savory, flavorful broth within thin yet sturdy wrappers!
Aside from the XLB, there are other dim sum offerings that are also worth exploring. The BBQ Pork Buns and Cheung Fun (shrimp rice rolls) are good options. The Pumpkin Puffs, cute in their miniature pumpkin shape, are a surprise favorite!
Pro Tip: Prices can be higher than what you might expect from other dim sum restaurants in the city, especially given the Midtown location, so budget ahead accordingly! |
Fung’s Kitchen
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Website: https://fungskitchen.com/
Address: 7320 Southwest Fwy #115, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (713) 779-2288
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 9 PM; Monday – Closed
Price Range: $$
If you’re looking to enjoy soup dumplings in Houston, Fung’s Kitchen is a popular option. Located in the heart of the city, Fung’s Kitchen offers a traditional Hong Kong-style dim sum experience that includes a wide variety of dishes!
This restaurant serves a solid selection of dim sum, the soup dumplings do not disappoint! However, you may need to order them fresh rather than via the dim sum cart service that makes rounds around the restaurant, which could affect food quality.
(Still, the dim sum cart is a unique dining experience for sampling different kinds of dishes!)
You can also try a number of other standout dishes like the Peking Duck and Peking Duck Rolls. For seafood lovers, they have a wide variety of crab and lobster dishes that will make your mouth water!
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the carts! If you have your heart set on particular items like soup dumplings, make sure to grab them when you see them—sometimes popular dishes run out quickly. |
Bao Shi Yi
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Website: https://baoshiyibunhouse.com/
Address: 9715 Bellaire Blvd ste b, Houston, TX
Contact Details: (832) 925-7913
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 5 PM
Price Range: $$
Bao Shi Yi in Bellaire is a spot you won’t want to miss for authentic soup dumplings in the city! This charming restaurant specializes in Chinese-style breakfast and has earned a solid reputation for its flavorful dishes.
The Soup Dumplings, or Xiao Long Bao, are a highlight here. Their pillowy dumplings are filled with rich, savory broth and a variety of fillings, including pork, beef, and shrimp. They’re perfectly steamed, delicate, and satisfying — a must-try for dumpling lovers!
In addition to their famous dumplings, they also offer a wide range of other delicious dishes. Their Braised Beef Noodles are tender and flavorful, and the Scallion Pancakes are perfectly crisp, making them the ideal snack to accompany your meal!
Pro Tip: If you’re in the area for breakfast, it’s definitely a great spot to start your day. And when you’re feeling under the weather? Let their Congee comfort you! |