Ugly Dumpling Hamden, CT: Handcrafted Soup Dumplings & Shanghai-Inspired Dining
Looking for a unique Asian restaurant in Hamden, CT? Ugly Dumpling brings the bold flavors of Shanghai street food to Connecticut with handcrafted Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), authentic dim sum, wok-fired favorites, bubble tea, and more. Whether you’re planning your first visit or searching for the menu before you go, here’s everything you need to know about Ugly Dumpling Hamden.
Visit Ugly Dumpling in Hamden
Located at 2335 Dixwell Avenue, Ugly Dumpling is the brand’s first Connecticut location and has quickly become a destination for guests throughout Hamden, North Haven, Cheshire, Wallingford, and the greater New Haven area.
Conveniently located in the former TGI Fridays building, the restaurant offers plenty of parking, online ordering, dine-in service, and a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, family outings, and date nights.
What Makes Ugly Dumpling Different?
Ugly Dumpling is inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Shanghai, where handcrafted dumplings and shareable dishes bring people together around the table.
Unlike many restaurants, every Ugly Dumpling features an on-site Bao Lab, where skilled dumpling makers handcraft Xiao Long Bao throughout the day. Guests can often watch the folding process through the open kitchen as each batch of soup dumplings is prepared fresh before being steamed to order.
The name “Ugly Dumpling” celebrates the beauty of handmade food. No two dumplings are exactly alike, and those slight imperfections are a reminder that every one is crafted by hand—not produced in a factory.
What Should You Order First?
If it’s your first visit, these are some of the dishes guests return for again and again.
Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings)
Our signature Xiao Long Bao are handcrafted daily in six unique flavors, each filled with rich, savory broth and steamed to perfection.
Popular choices include:
- Pork
- Pork & Crab
- Pork & Truffle
- Chicken
- Pork, Shrimp & Spinach
- Szechuan Pork
Not sure which to choose? Order the XLB Sampler to try one of every flavor.
Pro Tip: Place your soup dumpling on a spoon, gently bite a small opening, sip the flavorful broth, then enjoy the rest with our recommended vinegar and soy dipping sauce.
Spicy Wontons
Served in our signature house chili oil, the Spicy Chicken and Spicy Pork & Shrimp Wontons are among the restaurant’s most popular appetizers. The silky wrappers, bold seasoning, and balanced heat make them the perfect complement to an order of XLB.
Green Tea Noodles
One of the menu’s most unique dishes, our green tea noodles are made with green tea powder, giving them their signature color and a subtle earthy flavor. Pair them with spicy sauce or sesame sauce and your choice of chicken, shrimp, or beef.
Soy Garlic Wings
Sweet, savory, and crispy, these wings have become a guest favorite and are perfect for sharing around the table.
Bubble Tea
Complete your meal with one of our refreshing bubble teas or milk teas. From Brown Sugar Boba to fruit teas and customizable toppings like popping boba and rainbow jelly, there’s a drink for every taste.
Vegetarian & Vegan Options
Ugly Dumpling offers several plant-based choices, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the menu.
Popular options include:
- Vegan Dumplings
- Spicy Vegan Wontons
- Vegan Wonton Soup
- Vegetable Stir-Fried Noodles
- Cucumber Salad
- Edamame
- Spring Rolls
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, our team is happy to answer questions before you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the first Ugly Dumpling in Connecticut?
Yes. The Hamden restaurant is the first Ugly Dumpling location in Connecticut and serves guests from across the greater New Haven area.
Do I need a reservation?
Most guests are welcome on a walk-in basis. For larger parties, it’s best to contact the restaurant directly.
Can I order online?
Yes. Pickup and delivery are available through Ugly Dumpling’s online ordering platform, along with select third-party delivery services.
Does Ugly Dumpling have vegetarian options?
Yes. The menu includes vegan dumplings, wontons, noodle dishes, vegetable sides, and several appetizers suitable for vegetarian and vegan guests.
Visit Ugly Dumpling Hamden Today
Whether you’re discovering Xiao Long Bao for the first time, sharing dim sum with friends, or stopping in for bubble tea and wok-fired favorites, Ugly Dumpling Hamden offers a dining experience unlike any other in Connecticut.
Located at 2335 Dixwell Avenue in Hamden, Ugly Dumpling combines handcrafted cooking, bold Shanghai-inspired flavors, and warm hospitality in a modern, welcoming setting.
Browse the menu, order online, or stop by today to see why guests throughout Hamden and the greater New Haven area are making Ugly Dumpling one of their favorite places to gather over great food.
Address: 2335 Dixwell Ave, Hamden, CT 06514
Phone: (203) 987-6088
Hours: Mon–Thu & Sun 11AM–10PM | Fri–Sat 11AM–10:30PM
Full menu: uglydumpling.us/menu
All locations: uglydumpling.us/locations
Order online: Order Ugly Dumpling Hamden now
