Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in the Theater District

Dumpling lunch spots

A dumpling lunch that feels like a genuine break from the day instead of a frantic grab-and-go.

Based on 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Silky Kitchen image 1
Silky Kitchen image 2
Silky Kitchen image 3
View all
Chinese noodle restaurant

Small, modern noodle restaurant offers a calm atmosphere with clean, spacious interior and a long communal table. Energy stays low, making it suitable for quick, efficient meals near busy areas. Known for authentic, spicy Chinese noodles with a varied spice level that rises quickly.

Dumplings come handmade with a delightful texture and are super juicy and well seasoned. The three-fresh pan-fried dumplings have a crispy skin from rice flour and are full of soup inside.

Location near Times Square makes it very convenient for a quick weekday lunch. The place is small but offers enough seating since about half of the lunch orders are carryout.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is so authentic and delicious."

"This lunch spot has really delicious and satisfying food."

"These dumplings are so juicy and flavorful, I wanted more."

Good to know

1

Takeout is recommended if that’s an option for you.

2

Expect long wait times during noon, especially on busy days.

3

Be cautious with spice levels; medium can be very spicy.

02
Gallagher’s Steakhouse NYC image 1

Steakhouse features an enormous dry aging room and an open kitchen where chefs prepare meals in view. Atmosphere blends old-school jazz with classy, buzzing energy, creating a lively yet refined dining experience. Seating is crowded, with tables close together, enhancing a bustling vibe.

Shrimp and lobster dumplings stand out with their phenomenal sauce and popular appetizer status. Prawn and rock shrimp dumplings also offer amazing flavors.

Lunch offers a set menu with great service and delicious steak options. The lunch deal provides solid value and satisfaction.

People are saying

"The porterhouse steak was flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"The lunch spot's steak was tender and cooked to perfection."

"The lobster and shrimp dumplings were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for lunch courses on weekends.

2

Lunch course is available until 4pm on weekends.

3

Expect around $130 per person for a meal with drinks, tips not included.

03
Quick Pho Vietnamese Cuisine image 1

Pho restaurant on a mezzanine level offers spacious seating with street views and an arched ceiling that adds character. Atmosphere feels cozy and nostalgic, with warm lighting and quiet spots amid a bustling city. The vibe balances casual comfort with a humble, unpretentious setting.

Steamed vegetable and beef dumplings come packed with bursting flavor. They pair well with spring rolls and cooked beef pho for a full meal.

Pho stands out as a perfect lunch choice here. The spot suits both quiet solo meals and casual chats with friends, making it a solid pick for a midday break.

People are saying

"This Vietnamese food's pho is flavorful and the best I've had."

"This lunch spot's pho broth tastes so rich and homemade."

"These dumplings are bursting with amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

There is currently a 20% off grand opening special.

2

Prices are cheap, especially for Manhattan.

3

Quick Pho offers a variety of protein options for their pho.

04
Mr. Wu Dim Sum image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Modern decor and cozy atmosphere create a clean, inviting space with small dining tables and cramped seating. Loud music adds energy, while the vibe stays casual and comfortable. Popular for fast-serve dim sum and takeout, especially before or after nearby shows.

Pork soup dumplings stand out for their juicy, filling quality and rich flavor. Veggie chicken dumplings also offer a tasty alternative with a satisfying texture.

Lunch here happens often, with plans to return weekly. Meals include sharing dim sum with kids, making it a casual and social midday option.

People are saying

"The chicken soup dumplings are amazing, especially with chili oil."

"These soup dumplings are the best I've ever had."

"You have to try the chicken wonton and beef noodles for lunch."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 10 PM.

2

Expect around a 10-minute wait for orders during busy hours.

3

Each order of soup dumplings comes with six.

05
MomenTea Kitchen - Time Square image 1

Asian fusion-themed space offers ample seating and a relaxed atmosphere that varies from quiet to lively depending on the crowd. The design is simple and less flashy, focusing on a casual, cool environment with a large study area. It provides a calm break from the surrounding busy neighborhood.

Pork dumplings come both steamed and fried, with the fried ones being crispy and flavorful. Jasmine-infused and veggie dumplings offer fresh, tasty options alongside made-to-order salmon rolls.

Quick service delivers a 2 sushi rolls combo with free miso soup in about 10 minutes, fitting well into a lunch break. Ordering online and picking up helps avoid the lunch rush after 2pm.

People are saying

"The sour soup with rice noodles is rich, tangy, and full of flavor."

"This lunch spot's food is always fresh and delicious."

"The pan-fried pork dumplings were so good with perfect texture."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times for food preparation, especially during busy hours.

2

The restaurant allows for custom options to meet dietary restrictions.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases.

06
Mapo Asian restaurant & Bar -Time Square 周麻婆 image 1

Chinese restaurant offers authentic Sichuan cuisine in a cozy, peaceful atmosphere with affordable prices. The space feels welcoming and relaxing, attracting diners who appreciate genuine flavors and a quiet environment.

Garlic pork and chicken soup dumplings stand out with rich flavors. Shrimp dumplings and glutinous rice balls add variety alongside cheese pumpkin balls and matcha sesame balls.

Lunch features a special menu with a combo of snack, soup, entree, and dessert. Prices stay reasonable, though service can be a bit slow. Nearby college students might make it a regular spot.

People are saying

"The Mapo Tofu here is so flavorful and authentic."

"These dumplings are some of the best dim sum I've ever had."

"The mapo tofu at this Lunch Spot is outstandingly spicy and satisfying."

Good to know

1

The meal for two costs under $50, making it affordable.

2

No wait for a table is expected at this new restaurant.

3

Lunch prices are considered reasonable for the area.

07
Din Tai Fung 鼎泰豐 image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Glass walls reveal about 30 chefs crafting dumplings, creating a live kitchen theater that defines the space. Upscale design and a spacious interior set a warm, inviting atmosphere with attentive service. Bar seating offers close views of the kitchen, enhancing the interactive dining experience.

Chocolate dumplings stand out as a unique dessert option. Dumplings here deliver top-notch flavor and texture, making them a memorable choice.

Lunch features prompt seating with views of the glass-walled kitchen. Options include hot and sour soup that guests enjoy enough to take home.

People are saying

"The spicy wontons here are perfectly prepared with the right amount of heat."

"I had one of the best meals of my life here."

"You have to try the soup dumplings; they're perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at this restaurant.

2

Expect a 20-30 minute wait even with a reservation.

3

You can only make reservations through OpenTable.

08
Teriyaki R Us - Times Square image 1
Japanese restaurant

Fast food Japanese restaurant with clean indoor seating and visible food preparation offers a calm, welcoming atmosphere that contrasts with its busy surroundings. Background mariachi music adds an unusual touch to the otherwise unassuming space.

Dumplings come in crispy fried chicken and veggie varieties that stay fresh and not greasy. Chicken dumplings stand out as exquisite and pair well with noodles or bento meals.

Affordable and quick Asian lunch options make this spot a solid choice for a midday meal. Snacks and meals come cheap, fitting well for a fast lunch break.

People are saying

"The food here is super good and packed with flavor."

"I found the food at this Lunch Spot to be delicious and fresh."

"The dumplings here are crispy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The food is prepared in under 5 minutes, making it a quick option.

2

Prices are competitive for the area, but some dishes are overpriced.

3

They do not serve pork, catering to specific dietary needs.

09
Mari.ne Handroll image 1
Korean restaurant

Bar seating surrounds a narrow sushi counter in a clean, minimalist space with a chic, zen vibe. The atmosphere stays calm yet lively, attracting people who enjoy handrolls paired with Korean drinks like soju and makgeolli. The intimate setting feels cozy despite tight seating and occasional noise from an open door.

Dumplings come with noodles and small dishes to pair with meals. They taste good but do not stand out as exceptional.

Offers quick service with about a 5-minute wait for midweek lunch. Serves reasonably sized meals suitable for a light lunch or dinner between busy areas.

People are saying

"The fish in the hand rolls tasted very fresh."

"This lunch spot's handrolls are amazing, especially with the house-made sauces."

"The handrolls here are twice the size and served one at a time."

Good to know

1

The last seating on Saturday night is at 7:45 PM.

2

They currently do not offer reservations.

3

Expect a line; it's recommended to arrive early.

10
Emperor Dumpling image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Indoor seating offers a quiet and cool atmosphere with a clean and cozy interior. The place stays uncrowded and peaceful, creating a calming environment for meals. It stands out for its affordable prices despite a prime location.

Pork soup dumplings stand out as fresh, juicy, and full of flavor, especially the pork and chives variety. Pan fried and chicken dumplings also taste good, while spicy beef dumplings lack flavor.

Lunch specials offer hearty combos like spicy chicken and Gen. Tso options. Meals suit a quick lunch or casual dinner, with some dishes more satisfying than others.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious, especially the dumplings."

"You have to try the shrimp dumplings; they're amazing."

"You have to try the shrimp dumplings at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Emperor Dumpling is a great budget option for tourists in the Times Square area.

2

The prices are very affordable, especially for its location.

3

Lunch specials are definitely worth the price.

11
China River image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with cozy ambiance and simple but classy decor offers a quiet escape from busy surroundings. The atmosphere stays pleasant and chill with low-key music and comfortable seating. Custom cocktails and a diverse menu complement the relaxed vibe.

Steamed and soup dumplings stand out with savory and spicy flavors. Shrimp and pork varieties offer a delicious, crispy texture that makes them worth returning for.

Lunch specials come with chicken corn egg drop soup, noted for its rich flavor. The spot suits a quick lunch or a casual meal with company.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh, hot, and tasty."

"This Lunch Spot's food is amazing and bursting with flavor."

"The pork dumplings are savory and spicy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a mandatory 20% tip for tables of 4 people.

2

Rice does not come with the meal; you have to pay for it.

3

The restaurant is ideally located for those attending a musical on Broadway afterwards.

Discover more

Theater District, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...