Obvioulsy there are some delicious dumplings to be had in Chinatown, but dwellers of the east will herald the news that a stellar new spot has opened its doors in Shoreditch, bringing some seriously tasty plates to the East End.
XI Home Dumplings has just opened its doors in Blossom Street, minutes from Liverpool Street stationg and Spitalfields and the very definition of a hidden gem. Drawing inspiration from the bustling port of Dalian in Northern China, Xi Home was opened by 27-year old restaurateur Wenjun Xiang, who was born and raised in the city, and is serving up an astonishing menu of over 20 authentic, handmade dumplings, not to mention mains, sides, and desserts, alongside tea pairings, cocktails and detox juices.
The restaurant feels like a cool little diner, with neon lights and a menu that draws you in. Its breakfast menu includes dishes like Chinese Pancake with Sausages, Bacon and Eggs to a Twisted Bun with Pork Mince, but it's lunchtime that the kitchen really comes alive. It's all about the dumplings. Served in extremely generous portions classic combincations along with their signature Jade Lobster Dumpling - a family recipe handed down from generation to generation. For the adventurous, more daring dumplings include Abalone, Black Cuttlefish and Sea Cucumber Dumplings, each handmade by the skilled pastry chefs and simmered, steamed or fried. We tried a juicy pork and fennel filling along with one of lamb delicately spiced with cumin and spring onions.
Try one of the giant pork soup buns, an oversized dumpling wiwth a straw for the rich pork broth that we could have had two of. There's a fantastic potato salad, like none you've ever tried, with finely shredded potato, lightly spiced and seasoned to make a crisp, refreshing accompaniment to mains, of which the signature sweet and sour pork in utterly sensational. The menu is full of dishes from noodle and soup bowls to salads, stuffed pancakes and appetizers like deep fried aubergine, prawn shredded rolls, and pork ribs - there was far too much to try dring one meal, but we'll definitely be back for more. For dessert, guests can feast on Dalian speciality Crispy Milk Curd and Steamed Sticky Pumpkin Cake, all handmade on site. Dishes range from £6.50 to £18 and the entire menu is available for takeaway and delivery, plus a Xi Home chilli oil can be purchased to take home.
Despite arriving early for our supper, it quickly filled up and mostly with Chinese customers - always a telling sign. With huge portions, purse-friendly prices and brilliant staff, this is definitely going to become a new favourite.
For dessert guests can feast on Dalian speciality Crispy Milk Curd and Steamed Sticky Pumpkin Cake, all handmade on site. Dishes range from £6.50 to £18 and the entire menu is available for takeaway and delivery, plus a Xi Home chilli oil can be purchased to take home
Monday to Sunday 8:30am – 10pm
XI Home, Blossom Street, London, E1 6PL
