Dumplings, or jiaozi, are most popular in northern China.  For this reason, the best dumpling houses are usually founded by people from the Manchurian region. However, when people use online search engines to find the best jiaozi in Guangzhou, they almost always end up at a Cantonese-run-restaurant called Jurong Dumpling Restaurant.

Food

The restaurant offers many kinds of dumplings with different fillings. Dumplings with corn and pork inside are the most welcomed, but I strongly advise you to try the one containing shitake mushrooms, water chestnuts and pork. Water chestnuts usually grow in southern China and is a popular ingredient in Chinese dishes. After boiling, it has slightly crunchy texture with a wee bit of sweetness that gives the dumplings a great flavour.

Chinese chives and beef dumplings are the most expensive in Jurong. Chives are believed to help build up a man’s sexual stamina, which may explain their higher cost.

While it’s common to dip dumplings in some kind of sauce, the best can be eaten without. Northern Chinese people usually dip dumplings into raw mashed garlic, while Cantonese like vinegar and soy sauce. Except for those two traditional sauces, Jurong also offers Shacha which is a popular sauce from Shantou.

Atmosphere & Price

Jurong is not a fancy restaurant. People don’t come here for the service, but that doesn’t mean the service is bad. It’s best described as acceptable.

The surroundings are simple, and like many other local restaurants, it is not 100% clean. But it’s great for a quick lunch and based on the great reputation the restaurant has, the food is safe. Although the restaurant offers air conditioning, it’s still pretty warm inside. Wait staff are mostly from Guangdong, so you can order in your best Cantonese if you like!

Jurong offer three different sizes of orders. The small includes eight dumplings, with the medium and large portions comparably larger.

Conclusion

Again, this is not a high-end restaurant; the atmosphere and decorations are simple but the food is delicious and full of local Chinese elements. Dumpling fans should not skip Jurong.

You can find Jurong’s address and information here.