Across the globe, dumplings are the quintessential comfort food; from the gyoza, to the knoedel, to empanadas, but none quite have the surprise factor of the xiao long bao! Named after the bamboo basket they’re steamed in, xiaolong, this dumpling takes extra skill to recreate from scratch! The true test of a traditional xiao long bao, however, lies in the burst of warm broth over your palate upon your first bite.
Traditionally made with pork, the xiao long bao now boasts of wide variety of fillings including seafood, and vegetarian options. However, the purists on this list prefer sticking to the tried, and tested pork filling (sorry vegans)! The most traditional experience can only be had at hawker stalls, and our Expat Choice Ambassadors have done the legwork to let you know all a ‘bao’ the best xiao long bao in Singapore! Image Credit: seriouseats
Supreme Xiao Long Bao
Started by ex-Crystal Jade Chef Li Huaizhi, with over 20 years of experience, on Holland Drive, Supreme Xiao Long Bao may look like the typical kopitiam stall, but the pride in their food is unparalleled. For starters, everything is made from scratch daily, including the xiao long bao and the lamian! Don’t forget to help yourself to the ginger and vinegar when you head up to collect your dumplings. Image Credit: misstamchiak.com
a. 46 Holland Dr, #01-359, Singapore 270046
Hong Peng La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Located in the bustling People’s Park Food Centre, is hidden gem Hong Peng La Mian Xiao Long Bao! After navigating your way through dozens of hawker stalls, you’ll find this Michelin recommended eatery. The hand-pulled La Mian is exemplary at this stall, but the filling of the xiao long bao is the true winner here! Get a basket of six here, and make sure you leave some room for the Shan Dong Guo Tie. Image Credit: Everydayoff Facebook Page
a. 32 New Market Rd, #01-1064, Singapore 050032
Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Awarded a Michelin Plate in the Singapore Michelin Guide, Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao is the epitome of the hectic hawker experience! Long queues, lively crowds, and cheap food is what you’ll get here – and boy, is the wait worth it! The Xiao Long Bao is created on the spot, by founder Li Feng Cai, and two baskets of five will only set you back a few dollars! The broth is said to be cooked for 12 hours, and is a bit on the sweet side; so, if you enjoy spice, a touch of ginger and chili goes a long way. Image Credit: Zhong Guo La Mian Xiao Long Bao Facebook Photos
Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao
Alexandra Village Food Centre is home to Shanghai La Mian Xiao Long Bao, run by couple Zhang You Zhu, and Zhao Guilan. An extremely popular spot since 2011, the Xiao Long Bao here is made fresh every day! The broth has an umami feel, while the filling is generous and the skin isn’t too thick. You may have to wait around five minutes for your dumplings, as they are steamed fresh right in front of your eyes or you can even take back frozen xiao long bao for the next time you have cravings and don’t want to make a trip out. Image Credit: Myfoodframes Jq Facebook Photos
You Peng Noodle Dumpling House
Take the Downtown Line to Bukit Timah and get a taste of the xiao long bao handmade by owner Gui Ying. Bite into the succulent pork filling, and enjoy the signature burst of broth! You also won’t want to miss trying out Shanghai specialty Sheng Jian Bao, a pan-fried bao stuffed with pork mince, here! If you’re planning a theme party or event, you can get You Peng Noodle Dumpling to provide wholesale dumplings as well. Image Credit: misstamchiak.com
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