Located at 3285 Southwest Fwy, Houston, TX 77027, a well-known in Houston’s bustling food scene, Trendy Dumplings has built a reputation for authentic Sichuan flavors and traditional meals. A casual dining experience with a contemporary take on classic Asian flavors attracts people who appreciate genuine Asian flavors and groups who look for a communal dining experience. Due to this, my family and I decided to go check it out in hopes that it would bring back the comforting taste that we’ve experienced in meals we shared while living in Asia, and it did not disappoint.
When looking into the environment of this restaurant, a notable thing my family and I noticed was the easily accessible parking spots. When looking at the restaurant, there isn’t much to note, just bright red words that state “Trendy Dumpling” and a glass door. But when taking a closer look inside, my family and I were excited to see the glass windows showing our prepared food and spacious seating. Owned by the same team behind Spicy Girl, it blends traditional Chinese culinary techniques with contemporary flair. The open kitchen allows guests to watch the chef expertly hand-pull dough, adding a theatrical touch. Many people were there, but I would not describe it as bustling or loud; it was simply families sharing a meal. There was a contemporary and stylish interior, but nothing very striking. While they took reservations, we were greeted with immediate seating when we walked in. The staff greeted us with genuine smiles and helped ensure we all felt cared for. Although our large family can sometimes be overwhelming, they handled us efficiently and never made us feel like a hassle.
As we settled into our seats, the inviting aroma of freshly steamed dough and fragrant spices welcomed us. The menu proudly showcased an array of handmade dumplings and bao, each dish brimming with tradition and care. Prices, ranging from $9 to $18, felt surprisingly reasonable given the generous portions designed to be shared family style, which is perfect for communal feasting.
Instead of being offered water, you are greeted with a warm pot of honey ginger tea on the table. After pouring myself a warm cup, we began discussing what we wanted to start with. Ultimately, our decision led us to their cucumber salad, covered in garlic and salt. My family and I always like to add a spicy twist, so we asked for extra chili oil and added that to the mix.
Among the highlights, our go-to favorites stood out with automatic appeal. The rich chili oil pork dumplings encased a savory filling that burst with umami while a fiery, aromatic oil pooled beneath, adding a perfect touch of heat. On the side, a plate of vegetable fried rice delighted with vibrant colors and tender-crisp vegetables coated in subtle seasoning. The dan dan noodles, however, stole the show. Twirls of chewy noodles were bathed in a spicy sauce, where the tang of vinegar balanced against the savory, spiced pork and a satisfying crunch of crushed peanuts sprinkled in.
Their desserts are also delicious, if not wholly original. After our meal, my family and I ordered their dessert soup bao. We had never heard of this before, and after ordering it, we were surprised to be presented with the same look as the soup dumplings we had eaten before, but these were filled with a rich, creamy chocolate sauce. Though it took a second to get used to this unique texture, overall, it was very delicious and a unique experience.
My family and I sincerely enjoyed this restaurant and would give it 4.8 stars out of five. From the easy and comfortable seating to the authentic flavors and unique desserts, this restaurant is definitely worth trying.
