Start With the XLB
Xiao Long Bao (XLB) — our soup dumplings — should always come first. They're served freshest right out of the steamer and the broth inside cools quickly. The Classic Pork XLB ($11.50 for 6) is the benchmark. If you want to try something different, the Pork & Truffle XLB or Szechuan Pork XLB are both excellent choices.
Pro tip: let the XLB rest in the bamboo steamer for 60 seconds before touching them. The skin is delicate and the broth is volcanic. Rushing is the #1 mistake first-timers make.
How to Eat XLB Without Losing the Soup
Place the dumpling on your spoon. Bite a tiny hole in the side of the skin — just big enough to let steam escape. Wait 10 seconds. Drink the soup from the spoon first, then eat the rest of the dumpling. That's it. No dipping needed at this stage.
For the second and third dumplings, dip lightly in the ginger-black vinegar sauce provided at the table. The vinegar cuts through the richness of the pork beautifully.
The Full Ordering Sequence
A well-ordered table at Ugly Dumpling looks like this: XLB or dumplings first → one wok dish for the table → one noodle or fried rice → a drink for the whole meal. If you're going for Happy Hour (Mon–Fri 3–6PM dine-in), order the XLB and wok items during that window for significantly reduced prices.
What to Skip on Your First Visit
Don't try to order everything. First-timers often over-order and end up with cold food and a bloated bill. Pick two XLB flavors, one dim sum plate, one wok dish, and one drink. That's a perfect first visit. Save the Braised Beef Noodle Soup, the BBQ Pork Buns, and the XLB Sampler for your second visit.