Dumpling Inn

The Dumpling Inn is an unpretentious, no-nonsense hole-in-the-wall restaurant that's perfect for satisfying a dumpling or noodle craving. Don't worry about the decor or the service: the food is great! The staff might not smile, but hey, they're efficient and honest in their recommendations. My current favorites are the xiao long bao (steamed dumplings) and the luo buo ying si bing (shredded radish buns). Very reasonably priced too.

PROS: Good food.
CONS: None.

When it comes to food, this small, dark restaurant sparkles. The prices are reasonable, the selection is wonderful, and I highly recommend any of their dishes with sea bass.

It is the service and the management that keeps the Dumpling Inn from being anything more than an occasional visit. The staff is grumpier than an old elephant, the wait times can be extraordinary, and the service time for ordering and food delivery makes up for nothing.

They do offer a take-out menu which can avoid many of these shortcomings, but some of the best dishes are offered as in-store "daily special" menu items.

Visit, by all means enjoy, but know what you're in for.

P.S. Parking in the small strip's lot is almost impossible--park on the street without hesitation, and walk in.

PROS: Food, price
CONS: Service, management

I have always been skeptical of restaurants advertising traditional Chinese food in San Diego, but Dumpling Inn was a great surprise. With tasty soups, noodles, and fried rice to tempt you on the menu, it would be worth visiting even without my favourite thing to order there. They make the best steamed dumplings I have ever had outside Vancouver and Hong Kong. There is true authenticity! Their potstickers are not my favourite, though, so try something else instead.

Dumpling Inn is worth the wait (and there usually is one). A tiny restaurant located in the Jasmine/Korean Market Center off Convoy Street, they serve tasty dumplings and other Chinese fare. They also sell frozen dumplings, so you can satisfy your dumpling craze from the comforts of your own home.