When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Meet Dumpling
Why Meet Dumpling is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Meet Dumpling is a hidden gem in San Diego, offering an authentic Chinese dining experience with a focus on hand-made dumplings. This cozy restaurant is located at 2907 Shelter Island Dr, perfect for intimate gatherings or casual dine-ins with friends. The menu features a variety of dumplings, including savory meat-filled options and noodle dishes that burst with flavor. The restaurant's small size, seating just a few tables, adds to its charm, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. Highlights include the delicious chicken and mushroom dumplings, the mouthwatering rougamo (braised pork in flaky pastry), and the crispy green onion pancakes. Visitors can enjoy these dishes with soy and chili oil for dipping, enhancing the culinary experience.
Here's what people think of Meet Dumpling
As of recent, Meet Dumpling holds a 4.9-star rating based on 237 reviews.
Meet Dumpling has garnered a high rating of 4.9 from reviews, reflecting its popularity among locals and visitors alike. Users frequently mention that the dumplings remind them of those found in Beijing, highlighting the authenticity of the dishes. Positive reviews often emphasize the freshness and quality of the ingredients, the softness of the dumpling wrappers, and the variety of flavors available. For instance, reviewers have praised the scallop, shrimp, and pork dumplings as particularly delicious. However, there are not many negative reviews available, which suggests that the restaurant consistently delivers high-quality service and food. In conclusion, the reviews show that Meet Dumpling is a highly recommended spot for anyone looking to enjoy authentic and delicious Chinese cuisine in San Diego.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
M A
Blew my mind. Very simple menu with exceptional food and dumplings. Green Onion Pancake was delicious, Wonton Soup was amazing and super large, Rougamo is a must, and every single dumpling we ordered - Vegetable, Pork and Chives, Pork and Napa, Scallop/Shrimp/Pork - was fantastic. Prices are beyond reasonable for what you get. My new favorite dumpling spot.
Shirley Michael
We came here on a Sunday afternoon and were lucky to be seated immediately, because by 1 PM, there was a small line forming. Parking is also limited. This is a small mom and pop shop with a modern and comfortable interior and had about 7 tables. They serve authentic Chinese cuisine like cold dish appetizers and handmade dumplings to order. Since they are made to order, there was a little bit of a wait time, but worth it. The crispy onion pancake is different from the one I'm used to (opaque, chewy layers with crispy outsides). Theirs seems to be completely fried and reminded me of the crispy bread used in Roujiamo, which makes sense as it is also one of their dishes. It was unique and amazing. I made my dipping sauce with the chili oil, soy sauce, and sweet vinegar, a delicious combination. At first I thought the skin of the dumpling looked very thick based on the color, but it was actually not at all. It was soft, fell apart easily in the mouth, and not heavy at all. The texture was like broad rice noodles. I enjoyed my meal here and I hope you give this place a try too.
steve moses
Great little mom and pop restaurant in a Point Loma strip mall. We went with high expectations and were blown away by the quality and quantity if the offerings as well as the service. This is a small shop with maybe 8 or 9 tables. There was a wait to be seated, but not too long and everyone in line was cordial. Everything on the menu looked interesting, however seeing the quantity of food being served we decided to limit ourselves to 3 appitizers and one entree each. The wonton soup by itself was enough to feed 3 people. The pig ear salad was very interesting and enjoyable, however the spice gave everyone numb tongue for 10 minutes. The green onion pancakes were extremely flavorful, albeit a bit oily for me. We also ordered the Scallop with Shrimp and Pork Dumplings, the Naoa Cabbage with Pork Dumplings and the Mushroom and Chicken Dumplings. Each consisting or 14 or 15 dumplings. We were only able to consume about half and had to take the other half to go. All the Dumplings were incredible but our favorite was the Scallop with Shrimp and Pork Dumplings. The meal was great and the experience memorable. 5 stars for the flavor, the quality, the preparation and the service. We will definitely be back.
Ingrid Chen
Authentic and delicious dumplings! We tried the pork & chive, corn & chicken, and scallop dumplings—they were so good we ended up ordering some frozen to take home. The side dishes were flavorful and generously portioned. There was a short wait for food, but they clearly communicated the wait time with signs and a heads-up, which we appreciated since everything is made fresh. Definitely coming back to support this local, family-run gem!
Steve Moses
Incredible family run restaurant with authentic, regional chinese dumplings, and soups. Everything we tried was delicious and uh, well, prepared. You could tell they were made with first rate ingredients, and care. We especially enjoy the pork and shrimp dumplings, the salads, he wonton soup and, the green onion pancakes. Friendly atmosphere, generous portions and reasonable prices. A hard to beat combination.
How to reach Meet Dumpling
None
Website: None
Why Meet Dumpling may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Meet Dumpling with your friends? Meet Dumpling offers a uniquely intimate and authentic dining experience that makes it an ideal spot to gather with friends or family. Despite its small size and cozy ambiance, the quality and freshness of their handmade dumplings set the place apart and create an exceptional social dining event. The restaurant specializes in traditional Chinese dumplings crafted using family recipes and the freshest ingredients, guaranteeing a burst of flavor in every bite. Sharing these savory dumplings, along with the variety of authentic side dishes, encourages conversation, sharing, and connection, which is exactly what you want when meeting up with loved ones. Its location on Shelter Island in San Diego also offers a pleasant vibe that complements relaxed social gatherings. The modest size of the venue with limited seating means the experience feels more personal and exclusive, perfect for those wanting to enjoy quality time and excellent food away from the hustle of larger, impersonal places. With a high rating of 4.9 from over 237 reviews, this spot shows a consistent record of satisfied customers who value both the taste and the atmosphere.
What activities can you enjoy at Meet Dumpling that make it perfect for group meetups? The primary activity is indulging in a wide array of dumplings that are freshly handmade daily, with fillings like pork, shrimp, scallop, chicken with mushroom, and carrot with beef, catering to diverse palates. These can be shared family-style, making it a communal and interactive eating experience. Beyond dumplings, guests can savor delicious side dishes such as shredded potato salad and marinated beef, which add variety and complement the main plates beautifully. For groups, ordering multiple types of dumplings and sides creates an enjoyable tasting journey where everyone can sample different flavors and textures. The restaurant’s friendly and attentive service also enhances the experience, ensuring a smooth, comfortable meal. While the space itself is small with only about six tables, this actually fosters a cozy environment conducive to intimate gatherings where friends can converse and bond over their meal without the distractions typical of larger venues. Plus, the option of takeout or delivery allows groups to also enjoy these fantastic dumplings together in a more casual or private setting.
Why does Meet Dumpling’s atmosphere make it an ideal place for group gatherings? Even though the restaurant is small, its cozy and humble interior creates an authentic and welcoming ambiance that encourages relaxed conversation and connection. The focus here is on quality food and meaningful interactions rather than flashy decor or loud music, making it perfect for groups looking to engage easily in conversation without distractions. The tight-knit setting ensures that each group gets attentive service and a more personal dining experience, which can be rare in busier, larger establishments. The simplicity of the space reflects the genuine and traditional approach to the cuisine, making the atmosphere feel warm and culturally rich. For groups especially, this kind of environment helps foster closeness and shared enjoyment because the intimacy encourages everyone to stay engaged and savor not only the meal but the company. Moreover, its location in the Shelter Island Village area means friends can also enjoy a nice stroll or visit nearby attractions before or after the meal, extending the social outing beyond just the dining experience.
What about the menu makes Meet Dumpling stand out for groups? Meet Dumpling’s menu is built around freshly made dumplings with traditional, authentic recipes that clearly distinguish it from typical Chinese takeout spots. For groups, this offers an exciting culinary adventure because the dumplings come in numerous varieties—from seafood like scallops and shrimp to meats like pork and beef, and even vegetable options—ensuring there is something for every taste and preference. This variety encourages group members to order different dishes and share, creating a vibrant, inclusive dining experience. The dumpling wrappers are noted for their soft, almost delicate texture, which enhances the overall enjoyment of each bite. Accompanying dishes like shredded potato salad or marinated beef side plates add another layer of flavor and texture diversity, making the meal feel complete and balanced. The pricing is also reasonable, especially considering the high quality and freshness of ingredients, which makes it easy to order generously without worry. For groups eager to explore authentic Chinese flavors together, Meet Dumpling’s menu is a treasure trove that sparks joy and conversation alike.
How is the service at Meet Dumpling tailored to group meetups? The service at Meet Dumpling is known for being friendly, attentive, and efficient, despite the restaurant’s relatively small size. This attention to detail ensures that groups feel welcomed and well taken care of, with staff who understand the dynamics of group dining and the importance of timely service for shared dishes. The small number of tables allows servers to provide personalized recommendations and help groups navigate the menu, making choices easier and enhancing the overall experience. Since the dumplings are handmade fresh daily, the kitchen takes pride in delivering consistent quality without long waits, which is crucial when dining in groups. The team’s passion for authentic cuisine shines through not just in the food but in how they treat their guests, making Meet Dumpling a place where groups can focus fully on their get-together rather than any dining inconvenience. Plus, their flexible service options, including dine-in, takeout, and delivery, cater perfectly to different group preferences and occasions.
What makes Meet Dumpling’s location ideal for social gatherings? Situated at 2907 Shelter Island Dr Ste 104 in San Diego, this location offers more than just great food; it’s part of a vibrant area known for scenic views and easy accessibility, enhancing the social outing. The Shelter Island Village area provides a quaint and picturesque setting that complements the warm and cozy interior of the restaurant, making the entire meetup feel special. After enjoying a delicious meal, groups can easily take a relaxing walk by the waterfront, visit nearby shops, or explore other attractions, stretching the social time organically. The location also benefits from ample parking and is conveniently accessible from across San Diego, making it easy for friends or family members to converge without hassle. Additionally, the neighborhood’s lively but not overwhelming atmosphere supports a relaxed mood and good energy, perfect for groups who want to unwind and catch up. Whether you choose to dine in, order takeout to a nearby park, or just enjoy the culinary gems in a relaxed setting, Meet Dumpling’s location significantly elevates the overall meetup experience.
How does Meet Dumpling accommodate different group sizes? While Meet Dumpling’s physical space is limited with only around six tables, this cozy footprint actually fosters a more private and intimate dining experience that is well-suited for small to moderately sized groups. The limited seating means it’s ideal for gatherings from two to about six people who want to enjoy authentic flavors without the noise or distractions of large crowds. For bigger groups, Meet Dumpling offers the convenience of takeout and delivery, allowing friends and family to enjoy the same celebrated dumplings together in a home setting, at an office, or even at a park. This flexibility ensures that no matter the group size, the experience of sharing fresh, handmade dumplings and signature side dishes is accessible. Additionally, the restaurant’s consistent high ratings reflect a dependable quality that encourages groups to return frequently or recommend it for organized meetups. Whether it’s an intimate gathering or a casual large reunion arranged with takeout, Meet Dumpling offers options tailored to meet different social needs.
Why do reviewers consistently rate Meet Dumpling so highly? The restaurant’s remarkable 4.9 rating based on 237 reviews reflects the consistent excellence in both food and experience that customers enjoy. Reviewers praise the dumplings’ freshness, authentic taste, and the delicate texture of the wrappers, often comparing them favorably to traditional dumplings found in China’s major cities like Beijing. Beyond the food, reviewers appreciate the approachable and warm service and the sense of authenticity that permeates the dining experience. Despite the small size of the restaurant, many commentators highlight how the intimate setting enhances the overall feel, making every visit special and personal. The reasonable pricing is also frequently noted as a major plus, offering great value for high-quality cuisine. This near-perfect rating underscores how Meet Dumpling succeeds not only as a restaurant but as a destination where friends and families can gather, share great food, and create lasting memories in a welcoming environment.