Xiao Long Dumplings: Chinatown’s Steamy Classic

Some meals feel like a warm hug, and that’s exactly what happens at Xiao Long Dumplings in Chinatown Plaza. This place is perfect for a relaxed, share-everything feast that still carries a sense of occasion.

The Star of the Show: Soup Dumplings

The Chinatown Plaza location makes Xiao Long Dumplings easy to reach, with ample parking and a steady stream of regulars who clearly know what they’re doing. Once inside, the energy of the shopping plaza fades away, replaced with the soft clatter of chopsticks and the hiss of steam escaping from fresh dumplings.

For anyone on the hunt for a solid dumpling fix — whether you’ve been a hundred times or never tried soup dumplings at all — this place makes the experience easy and rewarding.

“If I had to pick one spot to introduce someone to dumplings in Vegas, this would be it. There’s no fuss, no pretense, just good food and a place that feels comfortable enough to come back to over and over again.”

The signature House Special Soup Dumplings land on the table in bamboo steamers, perfectly pleated and piping hot. Each bite releases savory broth that tastes like a cozy homemade soup in one little dumpling. The vinegar-ginger dip on the side adds just the right contrast.

“The moment you pop that dumpling and taste the rich, porky soup inside, it takes you right to a busy dumpling house in Shanghai — or maybe a trendy Asian pub in London, packed with happy diners. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and satisfying all at once.”

Even after the first round, the bamboo baskets kept coming. Pork pot stickers arrived with golden-brown, crisp bottoms, juicy filling, and a side of chili sauce that was worth dragging every last edge of the wrapper through.

The egg rolls also held their own — crunchy, hot, and balanced, they practically vanished off the table before they cooled down. There’s something about sharing plates like these that turns an ordinary dinner into a mini celebration.

Comfort Plates Worth Fighting For

No dumpling feast is complete without a solid fried rice. The Chicken Fried Rice was comforting in that classic, familiar way — peas, carrots, scrambled egg, and chicken, all tossed together with a smoky finish from the wok. It felt like a supporting actor perfectly cast to let the dumplings keep center stage.

On the cold dish side, the Sliced Pork Belly in Garlic Sauce was an unexpected hit. Served chilled, the pork was tender and flavorful, its richness cut through by bold garlic, practically melting on the tongue. It offered a refreshing change-up from all the hot dishes, and ended up being the sleeper star of the night.

Meanwhile, the sea salt edamame played its role as the no-fuss, always-welcome snack. Salty, bright green, firm to the bite — a perfect companion for sipping on something cold and letting the conversation stretch on.

“It’s dishes like these that make you want to come back with a bigger group next time. More plates, more tastes, more fun.”

The kitchen keeps things broad enough to please any group, adding in hits like Mongolian Beef — tender slices of beef stir-fried with onions in a sweet-salty glaze, served up family-style on a plate that practically begged to be picked over again and again.

Generous portions made it perfect for sharing, even among a group with plenty of appetites to match.

Big Beers and Simple Sips

The table kept drinks pretty straightforward. I went for a huge 22-ounce Sapporo, the kind you see at so many Asian spots, crisp and clean enough to handle dumplings, pot stickers, and rich bites of Mongolian beef.

Everyone else stuck with lemon iced tea and Coke — easy, familiar, and refreshing. Service kept things smooth, with water glasses filled up and plates whisked away before we even had to ask.

Traditional Meets Just-Modern-Enough

The dining room feels familiar in the best way: open and relaxed, with high ceilings, playful lanterns, and sturdy tables that could hold up the weight of multiple bamboo baskets at once.

Bright pops of color keep the mood lively, while TV screens on the walls add a laid-back, communal feel that works surprisingly well. Families, couples, and big friend groups all seem equally at home.

It’s the kind of place where no one worries about what they’re wearing or how many plates they order. The crowd is here to eat, share, and repeat, and the staff handles the bustle without ever making anyone feel rushed.

Even on busy weekends, plates came out hot and consistent, and the space never felt chaotic.

“This is the type of spot that feels like a neighborhood fixture, the kind of place you could eat at every weekend without getting tired of it. But there’s enough polish and care here to impress out-of-town guests.”

Good Value and a Generous Spirit

Price-wise, Xiao Long Dumplings stays fair, especially for the quality and quantity on the table. Splitting dishes family-style helps keep the bill reasonable, even with a table full of orders.

It’s the best kind of value: plates big enough to share, without skimping on ingredients or shortcuts.

Leftovers? Practically guaranteed. There’s something joyful about taking home a box of dumplings and realizing lunch the next day is handled.

The flavors hold up well, and the dumplings reheat beautifully, giving a second wave of satisfaction long after the table has been cleared.

One for the Dumpling List

Xiao Long Dumplings pulls off the balance so many restaurants try to achieve: familiar, comforting food done with care, and a space that welcomes you no matter the day of the week. Between the perfectly pleated soup dumplings, the shareable plates, and the modern-yet-traditional vibe, it’s a Chinatown go-to that hits the spot every time.

Consider it your next excuse to gather friends or family, settle in, and get a little steamy — in the best way possible.