Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.
Soup dumplings stand out with their rich broth and tender wrappers. Pork dumplings offer a classic, savory bite alongside other Asian fusion dishes like ramen and bulgogi rolls.
Lunch features include a bulgogi lunch box with a soft boiled egg treated with vinegar and chicken tacos. The menu offers a variety of flavorful options suitable for casual midday meals.
"I found the food to be delicious and the portions huge."
"The servers here are so friendly and quick with recommendations for the Bao Buns."
"The lunch servers here are so attentive and make it a pleasure."
Good to know
Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.
The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.
Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.
Small, family-owned Chinese restaurant with cozy atmosphere and simple decor. Guests can watch dumplings being handmade in an open kitchen while enjoying Studio Ghibli instrumental music. Seating is limited and intimate, creating a warm and inviting vibe.
Dumplings here stand out for their authentic flavors and fresh preparation. Varieties like chicken and mushroom or cabbage and pork come highly praised for their delicious taste and quality.
Lunch draws a crowd with a packed parking lot and street parking nearby. Meals suit a light dinner or lunch break, though extra broth is not automatically provided.
Good to know
Make sure to come early because there are limited seats in the restaurant.
Be prepared to look for parking.
The restaurant was small and parking could be difficult.
Glassed-in kitchen showcases hand-pulled noodles in a clean, spacious dining room with pleasant background music. Bright lighting and casual vibe create a relaxed atmosphere where watching noodle preparation feels like a live performance. Seating accommodates families and groups, enhancing the welcoming environment.
Juicy, soft, and meaty dumplings stand out here. Options include spicy wonton, soup dumplings, and a beef wrap that all deliver strong flavors.
Quick service suits a lunch break well. The spot offers fast meals and leaves diners satisfied.
Good to know
You need to find street parking near the restaurant.
Expect to wait around 30 minutes during dinner hours due to popularity.
Customization of ingredients is limited; specify your order carefully.
Open-concept design inside a museum creates a classy, modern vibe with a loud, energetic atmosphere that sometimes resembles a cafeteria. Outdoor seating offers scenic park views and a quieter experience. The space combines clean European decor with a casual, inviting feel.
Pork dumplings come with a light zing and interesting flavors. Rock shrimp dumplings appear alongside a bonito flake broth with shishito peppers, making them stand out.
Patio seating offers a dog friendly spot for lunch. Light options like salads and lemonade make for a refreshing midday meal. Ideal for a break between museums.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and limited hours.
Parking can be challenging around the museum location.
Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers, making it a popular time to visit.
Korean restaurant with clean, modern interior and K-pop music videos playing on large TVs. Atmosphere is welcoming and pleasant, suitable for casual dinners and catching up with friends. Tables are close together, creating a lively but sometimes noisy environment.
Pork and chives mandu come out steaming hot with a delectable taste. Dumplings here have a clean flavor and pair well with other dishes like spicy beef soup and cold noodles.
Stops for lunch include options like a cold soup that suits a quick meal. Seating accommodates small groups, making it easy to share a meal with a friend.
Good to know
Reservations are not accepted; the restaurant uses a paper waitlist only.
Expect long wait times on weekend nights, often exceeding 40 minutes.
Parking is plentiful and free, making access easy for visitors.
Spacious dining area features subdued Chinese décor and a center calligraphy print that adds an authentic touch. The atmosphere stays cozy and inviting with chill, relaxing music and a lively, family-friendly vibe. Bright and clean surroundings support a comfortable experience without feeling crowded.
Homemade dumplings come sealed tight to keep the juices inside. Soup dumplings have a thin, non-chewy dough and stay perfectly juicy. Sweet rice wine dumplings are served as a treat after the meal.
Lunch offers unbeatable prices with generous portions. Specials include fried rice at no extra charge and come with a spring roll appetizer.
Good to know
The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Lunch prices are unbeatable for the amount of food you receive.
Approximately 80% of the clientele are Chinese, indicating authenticity.
Small Taiwanese restaurant features a wrap-around bar with chic modern decor and classic 90s and 2000s hip hop music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with lively energy and good music. Seating focuses on bar spots, offering a unique view of food preparation and torch-lit bowls.
Dumplings come in spicy chili, soup, and sesame varieties with great portion sizes. Beef rolls and pork pot stickers add flavorful options alongside noodles and fresh soy milk.
Seating happens quickly even on a late weekday lunch. Drinks like the lychee coladas come sweet with a balanced alcohol level. The spot offers casual but high quality meals suitable for family lunches.
Good to know
Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 2-5 pm, with discounts on drinks and appetizers.
Most happy hour items are $1-3 off, making it a budget-friendly option.
Parking is available in a plaza lot, but payment is required.
Spacious dining area features modern silver decor with chandeliers and yellow lighting creating a lively, festive atmosphere. Dim sum arrives on traditional pushcarts amid soft jazz music and occasional live events like lion dances. Noise levels rise during celebrations, reflecting a busy, energetic vibe.
Generous fillings and balanced flavors define the dumplings here. Key dim sum staples like BBQ pork buns, shrimp and chive dumplings, and soup dumplings come served from a table-side cart.
No wait times make it easy to grab lunch quickly. Known for dim sum, it serves as a solid spot for a midday meal during business errands or casual celebrations.
Good to know
Dim sum is served all day, but cart service ends at 2 PM.
Live music happens on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:30 PM.
Expect a 20% service fee for parties of 8 or more.
Small, cozy space with wooden tables and chairs and a quiet, warm atmosphere. Guests watch dumplings being handmade through a window, adding a hands-on feel to the experience. The place offers vegetarian-friendly options and feels like home cooking.
Fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked dumplings stand out here. Options like vegan dumplings, soup dumplings, and pork and chives offer variety with consistent taste.
Lunch specials offer a great deal with a $13.99 option that stands out. Big pork buns work well for lunch, especially when taken to go and eaten the next day.
Good to know
Parking can be tough around the restaurant, so plan accordingly.
Lunch specials offer great deals for budget-conscious diners.
The restaurant is family-run and known for handmade dumplings.
Peruvian restaurant with authentic flavors and a lively, energetic design featuring hanging plants and an outdoor patio. Atmosphere is cozy with fantastic music enhancing the vibe. Popular for unique cocktails and well-balanced drinks alongside standout dishes like mojo fries and lomo saltado.
Chili dumplings stand out with a spicy kick. Dumplings pair well with mojo pork fries and plantains for tasty appetizers.
Lunch offers Latin American vibe with hanging plants creating a cozy setting. Dishes like tallarin verde and arroz chaufa come in generous portions, suitable for leftovers.
Good to know
Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.
Reservations are not required but recommended during busy hours.
Expect a casual dress code; no formal attire needed.
Restaurant offers authentic Afghan decor with vibrant blue tones, intricate patterns, and cultural artwork. Atmosphere feels genuine and inviting, suitable for relaxed dining. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options, creating a versatile experience.
Leek dumplings come with a rich garlic sauce and offer layered flavors and tender texture. Mantoo and aushak dumplings highlight delicate, flavorful Afghan cooking with a veggie option available.
Lunch offers quick seating on weekdays and meals that stand out for their exceptional quality. The experience often turns into one of the best meals had in a long time.
Good to know
Reservations are recommended for dinner service due to limited seating.
Expect to pay around $100 for a two-person lunch.
Parking can be challenging in the area, so plan accordingly.
Small space with HK-style cafe decor and cozy, clean atmosphere offers a chill vibe reminiscent of Asian cafeterias. Seating is tight but matched with beautiful interior design and simple, neat presentation. The place feels intimate and inviting, blending casual comfort with authentic style.
Soup dumplings have thin skin and a juicy filling packed with broth. Pan fried and pork fried dumplings come out super tasty and juicy. Veggie dumplings and chili sauce add variety and flavor.
Busy atmosphere during lunch, especially on Fridays and weekends with waits up to 10 minutes. Weekday lunch hours are calmer with no wait and the small space fills up quickly.
Good to know
Reservations are not required, but it's best to arrive early due to limited seating.
You should put your name on the notepad outside to get a table.
Expect a wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.
Cozy shack with cafeteria-style seating and a shared patio for outdoor dining. Atmosphere is vibrant and casual, often busy with long lines during lunch hours. Walls display stories about dumplings and franchise growth, adding a unique touch to the spacious, clean interior.
Dumplings come crispy on the outside and packed with flavor. Options include vegetarian varieties like veggie dumplings and pot stickers, plus signature pork and cabbage or kimchi dumplings that steam fresh and taste great.
Lunch draws a crowd with a packed dining room on weekdays. Menu highlights include dumplings, potstickers, and noodles. A special lunch combo offers a quick mix of popular items for a satisfying meal.
Good to know
Expect long wait times of 10-15 minutes for food during busy hours.
The restaurant is often crowded, especially during lunch on weekdays.
Walk-in orders are only accepted for takeout; no reservations available.
Ramen restaurant offers spacious, airy design with pet-friendly patio and ocean views. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting, with a chill vibe especially outdoors. Crowd varies, with easy seating on quieter days and a mix of diners enjoying both ramen and sake-based drinks.
Creativity shines in the flavorful dumplings, including a solid veggie option. Staff share tips to warm them up at home for the same great taste. Dumplings pair well with ramen and dessert, making them a go-to for dine-in or takeout.
Lunch offers a good special with a great deal that draws few crowds even on Saturdays. Meals come out delicious and work well for quick stops before travel.
Good to know
Parking is limited and mostly street parking; expect to drive around for a spot.
The restaurant closes at 9 PM, and the last seating is at that time.
Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 6 PM with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Open glass kitchen reveals chefs making handmade dumplings fresh throughout the day. Bright, clean dining area contrasts with loud acoustics and basic interior design. Menu offers many vegetarian options alongside standout dishes like pork xiao long bao and spicy wontons.
Handcrafted dumplings stand out with delicious soup dumplings and xiaolongbao. The dumplings pair well with wok-fired dishes like eggplant.
Crowds build up during Saturday lunch, showing its popularity. The spot suits a quick lunch and offers a nice setting for a break from work.
Good to know
Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during busy hours.
Takeout is recommended to avoid long wait times for a table.
Parking is convenient nearby, making it easy to access the restaurant.
Small, modest space with red accents and tight seating creates a no-frills, lively atmosphere. Bright fluorescent lights and a packed dining room contribute to a high-energy vibe. Known for authentic Sichuan flavors with intense spice and bold dishes.
Juicy and soft, the soup dumplings pack a flavorful punch and stand out as a favorite. They pair well with dishes like stir fried string beans, making them super addictive.
A convenient to go counter handles the lunch rush efficiently. Food arrives quickly even when it gets busy, especially on Sundays. A late lunch around 2 PM offers a quieter experience.
Good to know
Parking can be challenging at busier times.
Making a reservation a couple of hours before should ensure a table.
The portions are large and reasonably priced.
Small space with open kitchen and adorable chick decor creates a cozy, upbeat vibe. Soft lighting sets a romantic, comfortable atmosphere despite occasional loud music. Tables offer window views that add to the inviting feel.
Animal-shaped dumplings stand out for being both super cute and yummy. Veggie dumplings also get a solid recommendation for flavor.
Lunch offers light options like cucumber noodles and cow character buns. The lunch specials and combos provide good value and satisfying meals.
Good to know
Parking is challenging; consider using nearby street parking.
Reservations are not accepted, so expect potential wait times.
Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Large venue with modern decor and ample seating offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere that feels warm and welcoming. Quiet environment often features the gentle sound of a water fountain, creating a serene dining experience. Presence of a prayer room caters thoughtfully to Muslim diners.
Beef dumplings stand out with a unique taste and perfect cooking. Pan fried and steamed versions pair well with soy sauce and complement dishes like beef noodle soup.
A lunch special offers a good deal, making meals affordable. The spot stays quiet enough for a relaxed lunch, even with a large group around 20 people.
Good to know
Ma's House is the only Islamic Chinese food restaurant in San Diego.
The foods at Ma's House are halal as stated.
Expect long wait times if arriving after 2:30 pm.
Shanghainese restaurant offers a laid-back beach vibe with an open baresque feel and a casual, chill atmosphere. The place feels more like a dive bar than a traditional dim sum spot, attracting those looking for a relaxed setting and great cocktails. It serves hand-crafted dishes with a variety of Asian flavors, including many vegan options.
Dumplings come made to order with a delicate wrap that carries good flavor. Options include spicy dumplings and cream cheese wontons, all holding up well against other local spots.
Lunch offers a weekday deal with a special priced at $17. The menu suits a quick stop during a busy day, especially on weekdays like Monday.
Good to know
Happy hour offers a large selection of plates for budget-friendly dining.
Tapas Tuesdays provide a unique dining experience with various small plates.
The restaurant closes promptly at 9pm, so plan to leave by then.
Small space fills quickly with a lively, noisy atmosphere and tight seating that suits fast-paced dining. Walls are bare, amplifying sound and creating a packed, energetic vibe. Generous portions come with highly praised soup dumplings that stand out among Shanghainese offerings.
Juicy pork dumplings stand out with a crispy outer edge and well-balanced pepper seasoning. Three types of dumplings include cilantro, pork, and curry, offering a variety of bold flavors.
Lunch happens mostly before noon to avoid parking challenges. Splitting checks works well for work lunches or group meals.
Good to know
Parking can be hectic on weekends, so arrive early or consider street parking.
Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.
The prices at Tasty Noodle House are great considering the portion sizes.
Noodle shop with an open kitchen and modern design offers comfortable seating indoors and a dog-friendly patio outdoors. Atmosphere feels casual and geared toward quick meals rather than lounging. Self-ordering via iPads and table sanitizing wipes add convenience to the experience.
Pan fried dumplings have a crispy outside and a tasty filling inside. They stand out more than the steamed ones and pair well with beef noodle soup.
Lunch specials include noodles, cold cucumber, and a drink for $18. Portions are large, often leaving leftovers. Waiting during lunch is common but considered worth it.
Good to know
There is no dine-in service available.
Self-service is expected; customers bus their own trays.
The restaurant uses iPads for self-ordering.
Large dining hall features dim sum carts rolling through for orders, creating an interactive meal experience. Atmosphere blends nostalgic charm with some outdated decor and occasional noise from kitchen activity. Space suits groups of all sizes, offering a relaxing yet lively setting.
Shrimp and pork dumplings feature seamless wrappers that blend into the steamer, keeping the filling fresh. The menu includes xiao long bao, BBQ pork buns, and shrimp and chive dumplings, all served with attentive service.
Dim Sum lunch draws crowds, especially on weekends when it gets super busy. The spot suits group meals well, offering a nice setting for lunch or dinner with family or friends.
Good to know
Parking is free for 2 hours in the lot; paid options are available nearby.
They close at 3:00pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
Dim sum is served only on weekends and at specific times.
Historic diner space blends traditional American style with modern updates like crystal chandeliers and a vibrant mural. Atmosphere feels classy and quaint, offering a clean, bright environment with both indoor and outdoor seating. Live jazz and a small bar add to a relaxed, inviting vibe.
Chicken and dumplings come with rich gravy and perfectly fluffy dumplings. They serve as comfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Offers a modern diner vibe with a menu featuring large burgers and a deli with fresh toppings. Serves solid options for both breakfast and lunch, including Benedicts and brunch items.
Good to know
Happy hour offers bottomless mimosas for $18.
It can get crowded during weekend brunch hours.
Tell the staff upon entering if you want to sit in the happy hour section.