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Soft, savory, and satisfyingly comforting, dumplings are one of those dishes that are great all year-round. From handmade potstickers and momos to creative takes on tradition, Metro Detroit’s dumpling scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether pan-fried, steamed, or floating in broth, these local spots prove there’s more than one way to wrap up flavor.
Ima
2100 Michigan Avenue, Detroit
4870 Cass Avenue, Detroit
32203 John R Road, Madison Heights
Known for its inventive take on Japanese and pan-Asian-inspired comfort food, Ima has made dumplings a standout part of its veggie-forward menu. Each location offers something a little different, but the flavors remain bold and balanced. At Ima Izakaya, guests can choose between Maitake Mushroom, Shrimp & Scallion, and Cumin Lamb Dumplings, each pan-fried and served with a chili-black vinegar sauce that ties everything together. Over in Madison Heights and Midtown, the Shrimp & Scallion dumplings remain a staple, while the Shiitake Mushroom version showcases earthy notes paired with ginger and scallion. Beyond dumplings, Ima’s menus brim with crave-worthy dishes like Karaage Chicken Bites, Crispy Fried Yams with spiced pepitas, and Tokyo Street Fries sprinkled with nori and sesame. Every plate is layered with flavor and the unmistakable Ima touch.
The Peterboro
420 Peterboro Street, Detroit
At The Peterboro in Detroit’s Chinatown neighborhood, Chinese flavors are brought to the next level. The restaurant’s take on dumplings is both comforting and elevated, with Mushroom Dumplings steamed and served in shiitake broth with chili oil and scallions, or Pork Dumplings seared and finished with cabbage and black vinegar sauce. “Our menu at The Peterboro is a reflection of our commitment to blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern culinary techniques,” says owner Charles Inchaustegui. “We’re constantly experimenting with fresh ingredients and cross-cultural inspirations to create a dining experience that feels both comforting and adventurous.” With other favorites like Cheeseburger Spring Rolls, Fried Chicken Bao Buns, and Crispy Eggplant, The Peterboro brings a playful energy to every bite while honoring the flavors that inspired it.
Oakland Tea House
3081 Walton Road, Auburn Hills
Oakland Tea House has become a favorite for those seeking authentic, handmade dumplings. The menu includes Shrimp, Cumin Lamb, Pork, and Chive Pork potsticker options, all made in-house and served with care. Alongside dumplings, the restaurant offers Taiwanese-inspired small plates like a cucumber salad, Soy Garlic Crispy Chicken, and Braised Pork Guo Bao, plus noodle soups and milk tea for the perfect refreshment. With a menu that bridges traditional and contemporary East Asian dishes, Oakland Tea House is a gem.
Momo Cha
474 Peterboro Street, Detroit
Momo Cha brings the techniques of Nepal to Metro Detroit, specializing in momos (classic Nepalese-style dumplings) that can be customized for every craving. Diners can choose from chicken, pork, or veggie fillings (the latter a mix of cauliflower, tofu, and seasonal vegetables), then select a chutney, like the traditional Tomato Cilantro or refreshing Mint Cilantro, and their preferred preparation, whether it be steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried. Each combination offers a new way to enjoy this Himalayan favorite. The menu also features South Asian street snacks like Samosas, French Fry Chaat, and dishes like Butter Chicken, Saag Paneer, and Lhasa Chow Mein. Momo Cha blends tradition and flexibility, making it easy to discover your perfect momo match.
Luisa’s Artisanal Street Food
22851 Woodward Avenue, Ferndale
At Luisa’s Artisanal Street Food, dumplings take an unexpected yet delightful turn. Inspired by global comfort food with a Latin twist, the restaurant serves corn-based dumplings that resemble gnocchi but pack a punch of flavor. Options include the Original Corn Dumpling with black bean purée and marinated tomatoes, Mushroom and Shallot Dumplings with spinach and a creamy shallot butter, and heartier versions like Sausage and Gorgonzola or Chicken Alfredo Dumplings. For vegetarians, the Vegetable Dumplings, sautéed in sage butter and filled with veggies like sweet potatoes and zucchini, offer another filling choice. Pair them with a warm bowl of potato dill soup or a piadina sandwich for a satisfying meal of international flavors.
No matter how you enjoy them, dumplings have a way of bringing warmth to the table. Across Metro Detroit, chefs are wrapping up global flavors in bite-sized form, creating dishes that comfort. Whether you’re sampling something familiar or trying a bold twist, every dumpling satisfies, one bite at a time.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on May 8, 2024, and was authored by Carolyn Hall.
