Edinburgh’s most delectable dumplings

As they’re the star of the show at this eatery, Dumplings of China is an obvious one-stop shop for the savoury parcels. The team here ensure their dumplings are fully authentic, with each hand made and carefully crafted. The chef learned his art working in some of the finest kitchens across China and the UK and brings that expertise to the diners of Edinburgh. Try some colourful rainbow dumplings, or dumplings with unusual fillings like cuttlefish, carrot with vermicelli, black fungus and egg, or pork with Chinese leaves. Then wash them down with some pear of aloe vera juice. The venue is found on Home Street and is open for lunch and early dinner daily (except Wednesdays).

Want a casual spot to grab some food on your lunch break? This place is conveniently close to the city’s commercial district and serves fast, fresh food to eat in or grab and go. Opt for some pork and seafood, or chicken fried dumplings and do sample the Xiao Long Baos. It’s all super authentic Chinese food that receives rave reviews. Casual and inviting, Noodles and Dumplings is an intimate spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and happy to guide you through the menu if you’re new to the dumpling experience.

Get your dumplings large or small in the heart of foodie Leith, at Stack Dim Sum Bar. The little bar is tucked away on Dalmeny Street. Menu highlights include ham sui gok (scallion and dried tofu stuffed in sweet rice dough and slowly deep-fried to crispy), wheat dumplings with salmon, king prawn and asparagus, delicately thin and translucent dumplings containing scallops, prawns and spinach, Shanghai dumplings filled with crab meat, pork and vegetables and pan-fried chive dumplings. Do pop by during Chinese New Year when the kitchen really pushes the boat out with some lip-smacking seasonal specialities.

Head to the West End to fill up on jiaozi, as they’re known in China. Rendezvous serves them with grilled pork, in soup and steamed. The restaurant dates all the way back to 1956, making it a real city institution for Chinese food. The sleek dining room features lanterns, wood-carved screens and sassy artwork, providing a total of 140 covers. Rendezvous’ chefs are experts in Peking and Cantonese cuisine and cater to vegetarian, gluten-free and halal diets. And its express lunch offers excellent value popular with business diners.

We’ve talked savoury, but what about sweet? Those needing a sugar boost can pay a visit to the ever-popular Dishoom on St Andews Square. Arrive ready to queue for some time as this place gets busy. But once you’ve got a table, you can order a range of curries and small plates, followed by the Gulab Jamun; this is Kashi-kaki’s first-class vegetarian-friendly recipe of warmed chestnut-brown dumpling, served with zingy citrus fruit ice cream and topped with pistachio. Dishoom also has a cracking Indian-inspired cocktail menu for those wanting some drinks with their dumplings.

Sold on the sweet dumplings? Book a table at Tuk Tuk (there are now two sites to choose from in Tollcross and on the Southside) where you can get your teeth around some warm milk dumplings with pistachio, cardamom syrup and ice cream. The vibrant and colour-filled spaces transport diners to the bustling streets of India through their sights, sounds and — most importantly, flavours. An eclectic menu of tapas dishes has been inspired by the street food culture of India, taking your taste buds on a tour in a buzzy atmosphere.