Some of us, however, only make it up to SF once in a while, preferring the charm of the more suburban Bay Area towns to the hustle and bustle of the city. That doesn’t mean you are out of options, though. We’ve got a roundup of restaurants to rival even the best SF has to offer; below are the top six you need to try in the East and South Bay this instant.
Din Ding Dumpling House
Nestled in the heart of Fremont, Din Ding Dumpling House offers all the dishes your heart could desire. There’s an expansive menu featuring a variety of dumplings (including soup-filled ones) and your usual pickings of noodles and rice. The place is bustling with a line out the door on weekends, a sign that the reviews are all they’re cracked up to be. // 3213 Walnut Ave, Fremont, Yelp.com
Tins Teapot Bistro
Moving up to Hayward, Tins Teapot Bistro is another bustling family-friendly restaurant with options galore. The menu boasts 15 types of steamed dumplings and 18 of the fried variety, including a few different types of bao and plenty of vegetarian options. Whether you’re a Hayward native or just passing through, this is definitely one to add to your list. // tinsteapotbistro.com
Dumpling City
Over in the South Bay, you’ll find Dumpling City, one of the top places to hit in Palo Alto. Don’t be fooled, this isn’t your typical dumpling spot. Rather than a restaurant, Dumpling City sells bags of frozen dumplings to take home. Don’t let that dissuade you though, because as the reviews assure you, they’re worth the extra step of boiling at home. Going wholesale is a great way to save a bit of money on your Friday takeout routine, and you definitely won’t be skimping on a deliciousness. // 3487 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, Yelp.com
King of Dumplings
With a name like King of Dumplings, you better be ready for some out-of-this-world dumpling action. Over in Newark, this spot is tucked away in a business complex with loads of other restaurants, yet its classic options really make it shine among the rest. If you get a table in the back, you can watch the dumplings being made fresh by staff, and served piping-hot to your table. They have thirteen different dumpling options with a variety of fillings, including traditional pork as well as vegetarian and seafood options. Bring your friends here, and there’s surely something for everyone. Not to mention, all their dumplings offer 12 pieces and are priced between $6-8 — so feel free to indulge without breaking the bank. // 39229 Cedar Blvd, Newark, kingofdumplingsnewark.com
House of Dumplings
House of Dumplings is your new go-to spot if you’re in Union City. A family owned place, the reviews highlight how friendly and welcoming the owner is. The menu options are plentiful and decently priced at around $7. // 109 Appian Way, Union City, Yelp.com
Fuji Huoshao & Dumpling
Down in San Jose, Fuji Huoshao & Dumpling is all the rage. Another spot where you can see the dumplings being freshly made, this is a no-frills spot that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Next time you’re over in San Jose, be sure to stop by to satisfy your dumpling cravings. // 6184 Bollinger Rd, San Jose, Yelp.com.
// Feature photo by Buenosia Carol, inline photos sourced from Yelp.com
