I eat dumplings like they’re going out of style, so it takes a really stupendous specimen to make me swoon. While I was visiting my family in the greater Bay Area over President’s Day weekend, Aunt Thao, Uncle Brian, and Cousins Megan and Madison introduced me to their favorite soup dumpling purveyor: Shanghai Dumpling Shop in Millbrae. And my lord, I swooned!
Our party of nine polished off four steam trays this afternoon with no diminishing utility to speak of—the last bite was as delightful as the first. The skins had a superbly supple quality, while the porky filling delivered an unparalleled soupy savoriness. I’m no stranger to xiao long bao, and these were as close to the Platonic ideal as I’ve ever encountered—just ask my chopsticks.
If your travels to Northern California ever take you in or around Millbrae, pencil in a soup dumpling break at this Michelin recommended (and Gastronomy approved) shop. You’ll be damn stoked you did.
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Shanghai Dumpling Shop
455 Broadway
Millbrae, CA 94030
Phone: 650-697-0682
One year ago: The Doughnut Vault – Chicago
Two years ago: The “Perfect” Chocolate Chip Cookie
Three years ago: Frost Doughnuts – Mill Creek
Four years ago: Golden Deli – San Gabriel
Five years ago: The Crab Shack – Ho Chi Minh City
Six years ago: Alma de Cuba – Philadelphia
!! How does it compare to DTF?
Tsz – I personally enjoyed Shanghai Dumpling Shop’s XLB more than Din Tai Fung. I can’t say if it’s because of the skin, the filling, or a combination of the two, but I just couldn’t resist the one’s at SDS. At DTF, I am satisfied with just two or three.
Aha! i love xlb, haven’t tried this place before and now it’s on the list…
I’m finally going to be in the Bay area in May. Here’s to hoping I’ll get a chance to try these dumplings!
Nicole – Ooooooh! NorCal is a treat. You’re gonna love it.
I’ve gotta try this place!