Ugly Dumpling

Visited twice this week with different groups, one for late lunch and the other for dinner. The dinner experience was good. Tried the Peach Blossom drink which was a fun treat. The crystal shrimp dumplings were amazing! Shared the pork and crab and shrimp spinach soup dumplings. Thought they could be soupier but enjoyable with the vinegar condiment. The green beans were tasty and tender but had a light crunch. The scallion pancake could benefit from more scallion/flavor. Shared the beef stir fry noodles with my friend and they were delicious. Other guest with us got the pork chop fried rice. The waitress was attentive and the food comes out at sporadic times. The second time, lunch visit tried other menu options. The braised beef soup was SO tasty, had a warm and enjoyable flavor and the braised baby back ribs were tender and flavorful and a great serving. Friends got different flavored soup dumplings that seemed soupier so I’d be open to try again and a lava cake with that’s lava was on the outside. The service was incredibly slow for this visit and they sat us a bit too close to the door. They were apologetic but a bit of a let down.

Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Shanghai street food, Ugly Dumpling is a popular restaurant chain that serves traditional as well as modern Chinese cuisine. Located at the former site of Dragonfly Restaurant & Bar inside Aviation Plaza in Linden, I came to this establishment for takeout as a first-timer. Recently opened, and upon arrival, I was greeted by Giselle. Their interior was nicely laid out, well-lit, simple, with a modern flair of Asian vibe. There was plenty of room, and the tables were not right on top of each other. One can see how the dumplings are made behind a clear glass enclosure. Their menu features a variety of dim sums, soup dumplings, wontons, noodles, and greens. I decided on the pork soup dumplings, which are obviously a must, and scallion pancakes. The sauces that came with each dish were the perfect combination. The food presentation was simple, clean, and absolutely amazing. The pancakes were crispy, crunchy, and not greasy, just the way I like them. The dumplings were house-made, the liquid held beautifully, and it tasted amazing with a nice ginger kick. The price was a bit steep but well worth it for the delicious meal, which I can recommend.

One of the prettiest restaurants that I have dined in, the vibe and the ambience are so amazing in this newly opened place. There’s also a huge bar area with lots of seats. We walked in during lunch hour on New Year day, got a table right away since there wasn’t much people. The menu was concise, only 2 sides, got mix of dim sum items, noodles, soup dumplings, appetizers and drinks. I liked all the items I got to try. Edamame, popcorn chicken, soy garlic wings, beef noodle soup, crystal shrimp dumplings, pancake all were cooked nicely, had good taste. The rainbow soup dumplings had mix of 5 flavors, I enjoyed the of the soup. The service was excellent. Our server was very friendly, calm and polite. They also have glass window view of the dumpling kitchen where all the chefs are putting the dumplings together. By the end of our lunch, the spot got busy.

Treated myself to lunch at Ugly Dumpling. This is a new location and my first time trying. It was a great experience. The restaurant is really clean and well decorated. It was a nice atmosphere. The service was great. All staff were very friendly and accommodating. The food came out quickly and at the perfect temperature. I had a spicy ginger margarita, chicken dumplings and shrimp fried rice. I will definitely visit again.

Everything was amazing! Staff and my waiter were incredibly friendly and attentive! Food was delicious. I had the Ugly Dumpling Sampler, Spring Rolls and Steamed Chicken and Mushroom Buns!