With Michelin-recognized Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao preparing to open at the Mall of Georgia, it is the perfect time to highlight some closer spots for dumpling lovers. East Cobb already has strong options for Xiao Long Bao (pronounced “show long bow”), so fans do not necessarily need to make the drive to Buford for a fix. These soup dumplings are known for their thin wrappers, piping hot broth, and savory fillings that deliver big flavor in a small package. Several local restaurants include them on their menus, each bringing a slightly different approach and atmosphere.
Xiao Long Bao, often called Shanghai soup dumplings or just soup dumplings, originated in the Jiangnan region of China. They are made by wrapping a thin sheet of dough around a filling of seasoned pork and gelatinized broth. When steamed, the broth melts, creating a dumpling filled with hot soup inside. The proper way to enjoy them is to gently lift a dumpling with chopsticks, place it in a spoon, bite a small hole towards the top to release the hot steam, sip the broth, and then finish the dumpling with a splash of black vinegar and ginger sauce. The process is part of the fun and part of what keeps fans coming back, but be sure to release the steam and give the broth a moment to cool, as the dumplings are not spicy in flavor but they come out very hot.
Tasty China
Tasty China on Powers Ferry Road has long been known for bold Sichuan dishes, but the menu also features Xiao Long Bao. Listed simply as “D2 Xiao Long Bao,” these steamed pork soup dumplings are a favorite for those who want something beyond the restaurant’s signature spicy plates. Regulars often pair them with dry-fried eggplant or mapo tofu, making them a great starter before diving into the heat.
On the menu:
D2. Xiao Long Bao 小笼包
Axia Chinese Bistro
Axia Chinese Bistro, located in East Cobb and formerly known as Fire Stone Chinese Cuisine, brings a refined approach to Chinese dining. The menu includes “Steamed Soup Buns with Pork,” which are their version of Xiao Long Bao. Presented in bamboo baskets in quantities of six, these dumplings are a highlight alongside a wide range of other dishes. The restaurant’s polished interior makes it an excellent choice for a sit-down dinner where soup dumplings are part of a larger meal.
On the menu:
Xiao Long Bao (under the “Chinese Snacks” section)
Dumpling Garden
Dumpling Garden on Sandy Plains focuses heavily on dumplings, noodles, and comfort dishes. Their menu includes both the traditional Shanghai style of soup dumpling (mini juicy buns with pork) and a crab meat and pork soup dumpling as well as a pork and shrimp dumpling. The attention to variety makes Dumpling Garden a standout for those who want to compare different fillings side by side. Many guests find it easy to make a meal of dumplings alone, pairing them with scallion pancakes or pan-fried potstickers.
On the menu:
D1. Mini Juicy Buns w. Pork (6)
南翔小笼包
D2. Mini Juicy Buns w. Pork & Crabmeat (6)
蟹粉小笼包
D3. Mini Juicy Buns w. Pork & shrimp (6)
虾仁小笼包
Restaurant Information
Tasty China
1808 Powers Ferry Rd
Marietta, GA 30067
(770) 419-9849
TastyChina.net | Menu | Yelp
Axia Chinese Bistro
1401 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 128
Marietta, GA 30062
(678) 202-4624
AxiaChineseBistro.com | Menu | Instagram | Yelp
Dumpling Garden
2731 Sandy Plains Rd
Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 565-1995
DGMarietta.com | Menu | Yelp
Outside of East Cobb, there are additional spots in Marietta and Kennesaw that feature soup dumplings. Popular choices include WEI Authentic Chinese Cuisine near the Marietta Square, Fire Stone Chinese Cuisine in Kennesaw, and 3+3 Lanzhou Ramen near Town Center Mall. Each offers its own take on Xiao Long Bao and gives dumpling fans even more reasons to explore beyond the neighborhood.
Wei Authentic Chinese Cuisine
Wei Authentic Chinese Cuisine near the Marietta Square offers a delectable fusion of traditional Chinese dishes and bold, Sichuan specialties influenced by the renowned Chef Peter Chang. Highlights from the menu include the rich and flavorful soup dumplings, the tantalizing dry-fried eggplant, and the spicy chili wontons. At WEI, the soup dumplings arrive in bamboo steamers, six to an order. The wrappers are thin yet sturdy enough to hold in the piping hot broth, and the pork filling carries a clean, savory flavor.
On the menu:
A5. 小笼包 SOUP DUMPLINGS (6)
Steamed, house-made, choice of pork or chicken
Fire Stone Chinese Cuisine
Fire Stone Chinese Cuisine in Kennesaw lists soup dumplings as “Steamed Soup Buns with Pork,” and they have become one of the restaurant’s most ordered dim sum selections. Each dumpling holds a good balance of broth and meat, and the presentation in traditional baskets makes the experience feel authentic and comforting. Regulars note that these dumplings pair well with Fire Stone’s noodle soups or a side of stir-fried greens.
On the menu:
“Chinese Snacks”
Steamed Soup Buns w. Pork (6)
Served with vinegar and ginger sauce
3+3 LanZhou Ramen
At 3+3 LanZhou Ramen, soup dumplings join a menu that also showcases hand-pulled noodles. The dumplings are crafted with care, delivering a satisfying burst of hot broth inside soft wrappers. Many diners enjoy ordering a basket alongside a steaming bowl of Lanzhou-style ramen, creating a hearty combination that highlights both of the restaurant’s specialties.
On the menu:
33. Steamed Soup Dumplings (6)
Restaurant Information
WEI Authentic Chinese Cuisine
35 South Marietta Pkwy SW
Marietta, GA 30064
(678) 403-8090
EatWei.com | Menu | Yelp | Facebook
Fire Stone Chinese Cuisine
840 Ernest Barrett Pkwy NW
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(678) 324-0512
FireStoneKennesaw.com | Menu | Yelp
3+3 LanZhou Ramen
2700 Town Center Dr #132
Kennesaw, GA 30144
(678) 403-8433
33LanZhouRamen.com | Menu | Yelp
