Ugly Dumpling swans into Soho

The fusion food to beat all fusions. Ugly Dumpling pairs Asian home recipes with western flavours and ingredients to redefine the concept of the dumpling. With a restaurant in Soho, a unit in Boxpark in Wembley, and delivery available, the brand is branching out. And we could not be happier about it.

The menu is small but perfectly formed and all at a great price. There are two categories of dumplings to choose from — street food classics or new favourites. There are also meat, vegetarian or vegan platter options that come with eight pieces each, making them perfect for sharing.

 

The classics include pork belly, aromatic duck, satay chicken, prawn and chive or spinach and tofu, while the new favourites are cheeseburger, mushroom and truffle, halloumi and courgette, and artichoke and sundried tomato.

While the classics are a delicious safe bet, don’t be afraid to try the new additions.

We know what you’re thinking — how can a cheeseburger dumpling work? And how can it still be a dumpling? Well prepare to be amazed, because not only do they work, they will become your new obsession.

Head chef Andrew Mead developed the menu with Ugly Dumpling’s brand ambassador, Ping Wong. The two worked together to use seasonal British ingredients that complement the Asian street food flavours that are so popular in markets all over London.

 

The restaurant in Soho is cosy, with seating upstairs and downstairs. The staff are friendly and helpful and always ready to explain the exciting, innovative menu.

 

And the fun doesn’t stop at the original savoury ideas. Sweet dumplings are all we want for dessert from now on. There are three to choose from — Nutella with mixed nuts and marshmallows, pecan pie, and strawberry cheesecake. Or try a dessert platter of a mix of all three (you would be a lunatic not to). We don’t know what else we can say about the desserts (mainly because our mouths are full), but they are the perfect size and the flavour pairings go so well together.

 

We love supporting small businesses, especially when they produce the incredible kind of food Ugly Dumpling does. We can’t wait to see what they do next and can’t wait to get back down there.

Is there such a thing as too many dumplings? No, not when they’re this good.