London celebrates National Dumpling Day with citywide menus showcasing global flavours

London restaurants are preparing to showcase their dumpling menus next week in celebration of National Dumpling Day. Originating in the United States, the event has gained traction in the UK in recent years as a way to celebrate the culinary versatility of dumplings. It provides an occasion for restaurants to highlight regional and innovative interpretations of the dish, and for diners to discover new flavours and traditions. In London, venues including Kibou in Battersea, Huǒ in Chelsea, Xi Home Dumplings Bay in Spitalfields and Noodle & Beer in Chinatown are among those offering a range of traditional and contemporary takes.

Japanese restaurant and bar Kibou prides itself on its selection of sushi and sashimi, but also offers a variety of dumplings, including pork gyoza and takoyaki (octopus dumplings). The restaurant will also be featuring a dessert option in the form of Apple Gyoza – cinnamon and apple-filled dumplings served with vanilla ice cream and salted caramel sauce.

Meanwhile Huǒ, who offer a menu influenced by Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisine, will showcase their Handmade Dim Sum selection, which includes options such as Vegetable Dumplings, Spicy Hunan Pork Dumplings, Prawn Dumplings and Siu Mai. According to the restaurant, all dishes are prepared from scratch using traditional recipes from Thailand, China, Malaysia and Singapore.

In Spitalfields, Xi Home Dumplings Bay focuses almost exclusively on dumplings. Their offerings range from familiar combinations such as Spicy Pork and Beef with Spring Onion to more specialised varieties such as the Jade Lobster Dumpling – described as a family recipe passed down through generations. Other more unusual dumplings include fillings such as Abalone, Black Cuttlefish and Sea Cucumber. All of them are handmade and either steamed, simmered or fried, typically served with soy sauce and mature vinegar.

Noodle & Beer in Chinatown is known for its Sichuan-style dishes and late-night hours, serving food until 4am. Alongside its noodle offerings, the menu includes Guo Tie – pan-fried dumplings filled with beef and spring onion (rated 1 out of 5 on the restaurant’s “chilli-o-metre”, making them a milder choice!).

Food Desk

National Dumpling Day takes place on 26^th September 2025 at venues all over the UK. For Chinatown London’s guide, visit here.