Discover Five Dumpling Places Melbourne Diners Love
Melbourne’s dumpling game is stronger than ever in 2025. From bustling laneways in Chinatown to tucked-away gems serving gluten-free delights, these spots offer everything from delicate soup-filled xiaolong bao to crispy pan-fried parcels. Here’s your guide to five must-visit dumpling destinations — all open and thriving this year.
1. HuTong Dumpling Bar
📍 14–16 Market Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
⏰ Mon–Thu: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5.30 pm–10.30 pm
Fri–Sat: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5.30 pm–11 pm
Sun: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5.30 pm–10.30 pm
Famous for its legendary xiaolong bao, HuTong offers an authentic Shanghai experience, complete with an open kitchen where you can watch chefs hand-fold dumplings with precision. Must-tries include the spicy wontons, pan-fried dumplings, and the fiery chilli chicken. Spread across three levels, it’s ideal for both casual lunches and intimate dinners.
2. Shanghai Street (Chinatown)
📍 342 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
⏰ Mon–Thu: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5 pm–9.30 pm
Fri–Sat: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5 pm–10 pm
Sun: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5 pm–9.30 pm
This Chinatown icon has built a loyal following with its juicy xiaolong bao and pork belly braised in fragrant Shanghai spices. The menu also features spicy Sichuan dishes, steamed buns, and pan-fried dumplings. Perfect for a quick city lunch or a pre-theatre bite.
3. Juicy Bao
📍 178 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
⏰ Mon, Wed–Thu, Sun: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5.30 pm–9.30 pm
Fri–Sat: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5.30 pm–10.30 pm
(Closed Tuesdays)
As the name suggests, Juicy Bao delivers plump, steaming baskets of xiaolong bao that ooze rich broth with every bite. Popular choices include crab and pork soup dumplings, chicken and prawn dumplings, and the indulgent salted duck egg yolk prawns. Weekends see extended hours, making it a go-to for late-night dumpling runs.
4. ShanDong MaMa Dumplings
📍 Mid City Arcade, 7/200 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
⏰ Mon–Sat: 11.30 am–8.30 pm
(Closed Sundays)
Proudly showcasing the flavours of China’s Shandong province, this cosy eatery crafts dumplings with precision — thicker skins for robust meat fillings, delicate wrappers for fish varieties. The lamb dumplings are a standout, offering a subtle Australian twist. Affordable prices and hearty portions keep locals coming back.
5. RoboMao
📍 Shop 4, 189 Exhibition Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
⏰ Mon–Thu: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5 pm–9.30 pm
Fri–Sat: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5 pm–10 pm
Sun: 11.30 am–3 pm & 5 pm–9.30 pm
RoboMao has perfected gluten-free dumplings over six years, using separate steamers and utensils to ensure zero cross-contamination. Their menu blends Cantonese and Hunan influences, with standout flavours in both meat and vegetarian dumplings. A safe, delicious haven for those with dietary requirements.
Why These Dumpling Houses Stand Out in 2025
- Diversity of styles — from traditional Chinese to modern Australian fusion.
- Special dietary options — gluten-free menus at RoboMao.
- Central locations — all within Melbourne’s CBD, perfect for pre-theatre dining or city exploration.
- Late-night availability — HuTong, Juicy Bao, and RoboMao cater to evening cravings.
Whether you’re a dumpling purist or on the hunt for creative twists, Melbourne’s dumpling scene this year is packed with flavour and personality. Grab your chopsticks and start your own dumpling tour.