Now open near Liverpool Street Station.
I have found a restaurant which ticks so many boxes on my culinary dream list. It’s casual, has a great location … oh, and I should mention the food, which is some of the best Chinese food I have had in London. It’s Xi Home Dumplings Bay which has a smart new location not far from Liverpool Street Station.
This contemporary Northern Chinese restaurant is a hidden gem, and it’s no worse for that. It’s found on one of those city alleys for which London is famed. It’s just a step from the thronging crowds a few yards away.
The expectant diner is greeted by an open kitchen and exceptionally friendly staff. One can actually see those celebrated dumplings being made. Seating is perfect for lone guests as well as crowds. This Xi Home Dumplings Bay has only been open a matter of weeks but it is evident that it already attracts plenty of regulars.
Xi Home Dumplings Bay is many Londoners’ choice of restaurant for authentic Northeastern Chinese dumplings. They pride themselves on offering classic dishes and flavours of Northeast China and the city of Dalian. Yes, there are dumplings here, but so much more.
We started with a bottle of water to revive from the hottest day in London, but then were tempted by their cocktails and mocktails. My guest enjoyed a delicious Matcha Coconut Miky. I don’t know what a miky might be, but this is a perfectly presented cooling and non-alcoholic drink of white and green layers. Definitely one to try when looking for a rich and creamy, ice-laden treat.
I chose a Lychee Gimlet made with Dalian gin. This didn’t disappoint and was a well-crafted cocktail showcasing the sweet fruit with a belt of alcohol, served in a small Nick & Nora glass for a simple yet rather classy drink.
Lobster Dumplings
Our selection of dumplings showcased the skill of the chef. I can recommend all of them for aesthetics, taste and texture. The wrappers were delicate and the fillings moist and flavourful. The Lobster Dumplings were luxurious and expertly formed with a green frill. Almost too good to eat …well, almost. They were juicy and addictive and worthy of being a signature plate.
Our other dishes included spectacular black Cuttlefish Dumplings with inky black wrappers and the fresh taste of the sea. We enjoyed the best Sweet and Sour Pork I have ever tasted. The Taro Shredded Rolls with Mango Sauce were crunchy and well-paired with the tangy dip. The spicy Stir-Fried Chicken was a triumph. It will be the dish of choice for chilli-lovers and, like everything here, was a generous helping. OK, so it’s a matter of taste but I would call this menu item memorable and addictive. Dessert was Steamed Sticky Pumpkin Cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, which rounded off a delightful lunch in picture-perfect style.
Xi Home Dumplings Bay, between Liverpool Street Station and Shoreditch High Street, is a winner. It’s an ideal restaurant for gatherings of folks with differing tastes and appetites. The menu inspires sharing with options of subtle flavours, punchy spice, soft steamed temptations and hearty fried goods.
If I won the lotto then I would be looking for a flat just around the corner from Xi Home Dumplings Bay. I would be there for breakfast on some days and dinner on others. Yes, I am an unashamed fan of this spot.
There are other branches at Covent Garden and Bang Bang Food Hall, Edgware Road.
Xi Home Dumplings Bay, Liverpool Street
10 Blossom Street
London E1 6PL
Hours:
Monday – Sunday 8.30 am – 10.00 pm