Dumpling specialist menu overview.
Located in the heart of San Francisco's Parkside neighborhood, Dumpling Specialist offers a cozy dining experience with a focus on authentic Shanghai and Taiwanese dumplings and dishes. This snug spot features a menu that delights with a variety of starters, hearty mains, and flavorful soups, perfect for foodies and local lovers of traditional Chinese cuisine.
starters
Begin your meal with a tempting selection of starters that showcase the restaurant's mastery of dumplings and light dishes. The Sticky Rice Roll combines sticky rice with pork floss, pickled vegetables, and crispy Chinese fried dough for a unique texture and flavor experience. The Pan Fried Pork Bun and Shanghai Dumpling both feature tender pork wrapped in soft flour dough, offering a juicy bite that dumpling enthusiasts will adore. For those seeking vegetarian options, the Vegetarian Dumplings and Vegetarian Potstickers deliver fresh vegetable fillings encased in delicate dough.
- Cucumber Salad – Crisp cucumber tossed in a vibrant garlic dressing.
- Bean Curd Salad – A refreshing mix of bean curd and cucumber with garlic dressing.
soups
The soup offerings are warm and comforting, each crafted with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. Choose from Hot and Sour Soup rich with tofu, vegetables, and spices; the hearty Chicken and Corn Soup packed with tender chicken and sweet corn; the aromatic Beef and Cilantro Soup featuring melt-in-your-mouth beef and fresh herbs; the wholesome Tofu and Mixed Vegetable Soup; or the Seafood and Tofu Soup blending fresh seafood with silky tofu and vegetables.
mains
For heartier fare, the mains bring satisfying flavors to the table. The Shanghai-Style Chow Mein boasts perfectly cooked noodles with fresh vegetables and a savory soy sauce glaze, delivering that iconic smoky wok hei flavor. Beef lovers will enjoy the Beef Brisket Noodles, tender beef brisket served atop a bed of noodles and vegetables. The Pork with Pickled Vegetable Rice Cake Soup melds tender pork with tangy pickled vegetables and chewy rice cakes in a comforting broth. For spice aficionados, the Dry-fried Chicken Wings offer a crispy, seasoned treat that hits all the right notes. The Mongolian Beef rounds out the menu with tender beef and vegetables in a rich soy-based sauce that satisfies every craving.
dining experience and payment
Dumpling Specialist offers a small but welcoming dining space with just a handful of tables, making it an ideal spot for a cozy meal or quick takeout. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to families and solo diners alike. Payment by debit or credit card is accepted, though there is a minor surcharge for credit card payments; cash and Venmo are fee-free options. Parking is available on the street with paid options nearby, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors. Whether you're craving hot, fresh dumplings or a flavorful noodle dish, this gem in San Francisco's Sunset district is a must-visit for lovers of authentic Chinese comfort food.
