A Beginner’s Guide to the Ugly Dumpling Menu

Trying Ugly Dumpling for the first time? You’re not alone. While some of our menu items may be familiar, others—like Xiao Long Bao, shumai, bao buns, and green tea noodles—might be completely new. That’s part of the fun.

Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Shanghai street food, our menu blends traditional Chinese favorites with modern Asian cuisine to create a dining experience that’s approachable, shareable, and full of discovery. Here’s a guide to some of our most popular menu items and what makes each one special.

What Are Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)?

Xiao Long Bao, often called XLB or soup dumplings, are one of the most iconic dishes in Chinese cuisine—and they’re the signature of Ugly Dumpling.

Unlike traditional dumplings, Xiao Long Bao are filled with both savory meat and rich broth. During steaming, the broth melts inside the delicate wrapper, creating the signature burst of flavor they’re famous for.

At Ugly Dumpling, every Xiao Long Bao is handcrafted daily in our Bao Lab and available in six unique flavors, from the traditional Pork to Pork & Truffle and spicy Szechuan Pork.

First time trying them? Place the dumpling on your spoon, gently bite the top to release the steam, sip the broth, then enjoy the rest with our recommended vinegar and soy sauce.

What Is Dim Sum?

Dim sum isn’t one specific dish—it’s a style of dining made up of small, shareable plates that are traditionally enjoyed with tea.

Our dim sum selection includes favorites like:

• Shumai

• Crystal Shrimp Dumplings

• Steamed BBQ Pork Buns

• Pan Fried Pork Buns

• Chicken and Pork Dumplings

• Vegan Dumplings

Ordering several dishes for the table is the best way to experience dim sum and discover new favorites.

What’s the Difference Between Bao Buns and Dumplings?

While both are beloved staples of Chinese cuisine, bao buns and dumplings are very different.

Bao buns are made with a soft, fluffy yeast dough that’s steamed until light and pillowy. They’re often filled with savory ingredients like our BBQ pork.

Dumplings, on the other hand, use a thinner wrapper and can be steamed, pan-fried, or boiled depending on the style.

What Are Wontons?

Wontons are delicate parcels made with thin wrappers that become silky when cooked.

At Ugly Dumpling, you’ll find them served in two delicious ways:

• Tossed in a spicy chili oil sauce for bold flavor.

• Served in a comforting broth as wonton soup.

Both preparations highlight just how versatile wontons can be.

Why Are Green Tea Noodles Green?

One of the most common questions we hear is about our green tea noodles.

The noodles get their color from green tea powder, which adds a subtle earthy flavor while maintaining the same chewy texture as traditional wheat noodles. They’re one of the most unique dishes on our menu and pair perfectly with both spicy and sesame sauces.

What’s Cooked in the Wok?

Many of our entrées are prepared in a traditional wok.

Wok cooking uses extremely high heat to quickly sear ingredients, creating the smoky, caramelized flavor known as wok hei, or “the breath of the wok.” That’s what gives favorites like Orange Chicken, Mongolian Beef, Kung Pao Chicken, and Beef & Broccoli their bold flavor and signature texture.

Bubble Tea vs. Milk Tea: What’s the Difference?

Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, combines tea, milk or fruit flavors, and chewy tapioca pearls for a refreshing drink that’s as fun as it is delicious.

At Ugly Dumpling, guests can choose from classic milk teas, fruit teas, brown sugar boba, fruity yogurt drinks, and customizable toppings like popping boba and rainbow jelly.

Don’t Forget Dessert

Finish your meal with one of our house-made favorites, including Fortune Cookie Cheesecake, Chocolate Chip Lava Cookie à la Mode, New York Style Cheesecake, or our decadent Peanut Butter Bomb.

Ready to Explore the Menu?

Whether you’re discovering Xiao Long Bao for the first time, sharing dim sum with friends, or ordering your favorite bubble tea, the Ugly Dumpling menu is designed to be explored. Every dish is inspired by the bold flavors of Shanghai street food while offering a fresh, modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine.

View the full menu: uglydumpling.us/menu

Find a location: uglydumpling.us/locations

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