Dumpling Darlings, Singapore – Full Review and Tasting Notes

Overall rating ★★★★ │Asian│30 SGD pp│Telok Ayer, Singapore

Service: ★★★★│Food: ★★★★│Location: ★★★★│Price: ★★★★│Portions: ★★★★

On my last trip to Singapore in 2024, I found myself craving something cozy, flavorful, and maybe a little fun. That’s how I ended up at Dumpling Darlings, nestled in the buzzy Telok Ayer neighborhood. I arrived solo for dinner and was seated at the bar—arguably the best seat in the house. It gave me a front-row view of the cocktail maker at work, crafting drinks with the finesse of a stage magician and the calm of a seasoned barista.

The Vibe

From the moment you step inside, Dumpling Darlings hits you with its charm. The interiors are playful yet polished—exposed brick walls, cheeky neon signs (“Pork-fect Dumplings,” anyone?), low lighting, and a soundtrack that skips comfortably between indie, funk, and laid-back electronic beats. It strikes that sweet spot between casual cool and cozy intimacy. You instantly feel like you’re in a place that doesn’t take itself too seriously, yet knows exactly what it’s doing.

Despite its popularity, the space doesn’t feel cramped. There’s a casual flow to the room. Diners chat over bowls of noodles and towers of dumplings, servers move with ease, and the open kitchen/bar setup adds an element of theatre to the experience. The communal-style tables foster conversation, but the bar is the place to be if you're dining solo or just want to soak in the atmosphere.

The Food

I went with the Dumpling Platter of 15—a sampler of their greatest hits:

• Original – Classic pork and chive. Savory, juicy, and familiar in the best way.

• Veggie – Packed with greens, mushrooms, and tofu. Balanced and comforting.

• Momo – Bold and fragrant, with a satisfying kick.

• Fried Pierogi – Creamy potato and cheese with a golden, crunchy shell. Total comfort food.

• Smoked Duck – Deep, smoky flavor with a hint of luxury. My personal favorite.

Every dumpling was a small burst of flavor, carefully crafted and presented with finesse.

The Drink

To pair, I chose the Tea House Gin—a light, floral cocktail made with Lady Trieu Contemporary Gin, osmanthus syrup, lemon, tonic water, and osmanthus flowers. It was subtly sweet, slightly citrusy, and incredibly refreshing. Sipping it while watching the bartender build cocktails like works of art added a meditative note to the whole meal.

A Few Notes about Dumpling Darlings

Dumpling Darlings opened in 2018 and quickly became a mainstay on Singapore’s modern dining scene. It now has two locations (Amoy Street and Circular Road), each with its own slightly different menu and vibe. It’s known for creative dumpling fillings that draw from global influences, as well as their flavorful house-made egg noodles.

Reviews frequently highlight:

• Great value lunch sets (especially for the CBD crowd)

• An easy-going yet stylish setting

• Standouts like the Truffle Mushroom Noodles and XO Prawn Noodles

• Excellent service—quick, warm, and knowledgeable

In a city packed with dining options, Dumpling Darlings manages to stay fun, fresh, and genuinely memorable.

Final Thoughts

Dining solo often gives you space to really notice things—the subtle glow of the hanging lights, the way conversations bounce gently off the walls, the small details in service and design. Dumpling Darlings is one of those places that makes you feel like you’re part of something, even if you came in alone.

Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Dumpling Darlings is the kind of spot that makes you want to linger. Next time, I’ll bring a friend—or maybe just stay longer at the bar for a second Tea House Gin.