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Dumplings are a simple comfort food enjoyed worldwide, and in Metro Detroit, we’re fortunate to have a variety of restaurants that bring these international inspirations right to our backyards. Whether you crave the silky texture of steamed buns, the crisp edge of a pan-fried treat, or the heartwarming comfort of dough enveloping a burst of flavorful broth, the local dumpling scene has something to satisfy everyone’s interest. Join us on a flavorful journey as we explore the best spots around Metro Detroit to satisfy your dumpling desires, from time-honored family recipes to innovative new takes that redefine this classic comfort food.
MOMO CHA
474 Peterboro Street, Detroit
Momo Cha is a gem known for its authentic home-style Nepalese momos, a type of steamed dumpling that is a staple in Nepalese cuisine with a traditional blend of South Asian spices. Food is served family-style, and the dumplings are simply perfection. The momos are available as a 4-piece snack or 8-piece meal, and you can mix and match your flavor profiles and preparation styles. The protein options are chicken, pork, and veggies, all with ginger-garlic, cilantro, green onion, and masala spices. Other options are tomato cilantro or mint cilantro chutney, both being excellent vegan choices. Prep can happen in three ways: steamed in a classic metal steamer, pan-fried on the griddle for a crispier bottom, or deep-fried for a completely crispy experience. Pair these dumplings with other South Asian favorites on the menu, like tikka masala, classic curry, or mattar paneer.
PAO
114 West Adams Avenue, Detroit
PAO is known for both its atmosphere and food, offering an immersive architectural experience along with upscale dining. Located inside the Michigan Oriental Theater, PAO combines Asian fusion cuisine with its supper club vibe. For an appetizer, you’ll find sesame dumplings filled with chicken, steamed, and served in chili broth. Pair it with other apps like the Pao Pao shrimp or Wagyu beef sliders or have it kick off your meal before ordering the miso-glazed Chilean seabass or crispy salmon.
IMA
32203 John R Road, Madison Heights
4870 Cass Avenue, Detroit
2100 Michigan Avenue, Detroit (Ima Izakaya)
Ima is famed for its ramen, udon, and noodle selections but also shines with its dumplings. Each location has a varied menu, all inspired by traditional Japanese izakaya, which is a variety of sharable plates to build a sense of community. You can find shrimp and scallion dumplings served with chili-black vinegar sauce and lemon at all three locations on the shareable menus. The Madison Heights spot also has shiitake mushroom dumplings, made with roasted mushrooms, carrot, ginger, and scallion, with a similar maitake offering at Ima Izakaya that is pan-fried. Ima Izayaka also has cumin lamb dumplings, made with fresh coriander, ginger, and lemon. These offerings are perfect for those looking to enjoy a quick, savory bite that is both comforting and satisfying, perfectly paired with a rice bowl or ramen.
NOT JUST NOODLE
32705 John R Road, Madison Heights
At Not Just Noodle, the name says it all. This spot provides a wide array of Asian dishes, and their dumplings are a must-try. Each piece is meticulously crafted, ensuring that classic flavors are encapsulated in every bite. All of the dumplings are handmade, and either boiled or pan-fried. Flavor profiles include pork or turkey with shrimp, chives, or mushrooms. Other popular dishes include stir fry with handmade noodles, beef rolling pie (green onion pie with marinated beef and house sauce), and the mapo tofu rice bowl featuring a spicy chili sauce.
KUNGFU BROS DUMPLINGS
35624 Warren Road, Westland
Kungfu Bros Dumplings bring a Chinese flair to their dumplings, with options ranging from dumplings to buns. Dumplings can be pan-fried or boiled, with filling flavor combinations like beef and onion, pork and cabbage, zucchini and shrimp, and zucchini and egg. A deep fried option are the Veg Dumplings, deliciously filled with chives, egg, and thin noodles, and pork soup dumplings are a steamed choice, filled with hot and flavorful soup. As for the buns available, you can find regular and barbecue pork choices. The Sichuan spicy wontons are also a must-try from Kungfu Bros Dumplings.
THE PETERBORO
420 Peterboro Street, Detroit
The Peterboro adds a contemporary twist to traditional Chinese-American dishes. Known for their innovative menu, The Peterboro’s dishes are a fusion of classic techniques with modern flavors, reflecting Metro Detroit’s own blend of cultures. The dumplings available are mushroom with ginger, brother, and chili oil, or pork with cabbage and black vinegar sauce. Pair with other appetizers like cheeseburger spring rolls, fried chicken bao buns, or smashed cucumber salad with pickled shallots and chili crunch. The Chinese spare ribs and crispy eggplant are also some of The Peterboro’s stand out large plates. During its version of happy hour – Golden Hour – dumplings are 20% off Wednesdays through Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m.
OAKLAND TEA HOUSE
3081 Walton Boulevard, Auburn Hills
Oakland Tea House offers both contemporary and traditional Taiwanese cuisine free of preservatives and MSGs. Here, you’ll find homemade dumplings on the appetizer menu, with protein choices of shrimp, pork, and cumin lamb or beef. These are served potsticker-style, freshly pan-fried and mildly crispy for your enjoyment, along with a homemade sauce to dip. Pair these with the fried chicken and green beans or spicy beef tofu bowl entrees and tea, either hot Taiwan High Mountain or a cold bubble tea option.
