Ugly Dumpling

Ugly Dumpling, located at 1601 Willow Lawn Dr #840 in Richmond, Virginia, is a contemporary Chinese restaurant that has quickly garnered attention and high praise from local diners. Situated in the 23230 area, Ugly Dumpling can be contacted at (804) 251-1031 or their mobile number, +1 804-251-1031. Based on overwhelmingly positive recent customer reviews, this establishment offers a delightful culinary experience characterized by flavorful food, attentive service, and a welcoming atmosphere.

One enthusiastic reviewer described their experience as "Absolutely Delicious – Highly Recommended!" They highlighted the excellent service they received from Dexter, who ensured everything was perfect from the beginning to the end of their meal. This personal touch in service appears to be a key feature of the Ugly Dumpling experience.

This reviewer also provided a detailed account of the variety of dishes they sampled, all of which were met with high satisfaction. The Chicken Soup Dumpling, a notable specialty, was praised for its flavor. The Braised Beef Noodle Soup was also a hit, indicating the restaurant's prowess in comforting and flavorful noodle dishes. The String Beans with Garlic demonstrated attention to simple yet delicious vegetable preparations. The Spicy Chicken Wontons offered a kick of flavor that was well-received. Both the Chicken Dumpling and the Fried Chicken Dumpling were lauded, suggesting a mastery of different dumpling styles. The reviewer concluded that every single item was "packed with flavor and cooked to perfection," with a commendable balance of spice, texture, and freshness. This comprehensive positive feedback across a range of dishes speaks volumes about the consistency and quality of Ugly Dumpling's menu.

The same reviewer enthusiastically declared Ugly Dumpling a "gem" and a "great addition to Richmond restaurants," further emphasizing the positive impact the restaurant has made on the local food scene. The combination of "great food, attentive service, and a warm atmosphere" was cited as the reasons for their high recommendation and their definite plans to return, indicating strong customer loyalty.

Another satisfied customer who visited for a late lunch or early dinner ("linner") around 3-4 PM also shared a positive experience. They specifically commended their server, Elise, for being "friendly" and "helpful," readily answering their questions. The efficiency of the kitchen was also noted, as the food arrived quickly despite the restaurant being "pretty full." This suggests that Ugly Dumpling manages to maintain both quality and speed even during busy periods.

A unique feature of Ugly Dumpling that caught this reviewer's attention is the visible dumpling-making station, where a "glass window" allows diners to see the dumplings being prepared. This not only adds an element of visual interest and transparency but also assures customers of the freshness and handcrafted nature of their dumplings. While they enjoyed the dumplings themselves, this customer particularly loved the Rangoon and the shrimp noodles, highlighting other standout items on the menu beyond just dumplings.

Adding another layer to the positive experience, this reviewer also praised the drinks, specifically mentioning the "surprisingly good" Strawberry Crème and Honey Lemonade. This indicates that Ugly Dumpling pays attention to its beverage offerings, providing well-crafted and enjoyable non-alcoholic options. The reviewer concluded by recommending Ugly Dumpling as a "great place to come for lunch or dinner" with "reasonable prices," making it an accessible option for a variety of diners.

Based on these glowing reviews, Ugly Dumpling offers a modern and appealing dining experience. The focus on freshly made, flavorful dumplings is evident, with a variety of options to satisfy different tastes. The menu extends beyond dumplings to include other well-received dishes like noodle soup, wontons, Rangoon, and shrimp noodles, suggesting a diverse and satisfying selection. The attentive and friendly service, as highlighted by multiple reviewers mentioning specific staff members, contributes significantly to the positive atmosphere. The reasonable prices further enhance its appeal, making it a great value proposition for the quality of food and service received. The visible dumpling-making process adds a unique and engaging element to the dining experience, emphasizing the craftsmanship involved in their signature dishes.

While the reviews do not delve into specific details about the restaurant's decor or ambiance beyond describing it as "warm," the overall impression is of a welcoming and comfortable space where the focus is on enjoying delicious food and excellent service. The consistent praise for both the food and the staff suggests a well-managed establishment that prioritizes customer satisfaction.

For local users in Richmond, VA, particularly those in or around the Willow Lawn area, Ugly Dumpling presents itself as a must-try Chinese restaurant. Whether you are a dumpling enthusiast or looking to explore a broader range of flavorful Asian-inspired dishes, Ugly Dumpling appears to offer a consistently high-quality experience. The combination of expertly prepared food, attentive service, a pleasant atmosphere, and reasonable prices makes it a standout choice for lunch or dinner. The positive word-of-mouth and repeat customers are strong indicators of its quality and popularity within the local community. Don't let the name deter you; the culinary experience at Ugly Dumpling is anything but!