Serious Dumpling

- 49 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110

For residents and visitors in California seeking an elevated and engaging Chinese dining experience, Serious Dumpling offers a vibrant, modern setting nestled in the heart of downtown San Jose’s bustling San Pedro Square. This establishment masterfully blends the rich tradition of authentic Chinese cuisine with a contemporary, Asian fusion twist, specializing in a variety of expertly made dumplings and noodle dishes. It is much more than a typical Chinese restaurant; it is also a lively bar and dim sum spot, making it a multifaceted destination for food lovers in the Bay Area.

The name "Serious Dumpling" is a commitment to the craft, and the menu certainly reflects that focus. Patrons come specifically for the handcrafted specialties, with the menu featuring classic favorites like the delicate Xiao Long Bao (XLB), or soup dumplings, in varieties such as Pork and the Pork & Shrimp. A true standout, however, is the pan-fried soup dumpling, the Sheng Jian Bao (SJB), which offers a unique texture: a crispy, golden-brown bottom encasing a juicy, savory soup filling. Options include the Original Pork SJB, Curry Beef, and a vegetarian Monk SJB.

Beyond the signature dumplings, Serious Dumpling has cultivated a strong following for its other items, particularly the highly-regarded Garlic Noodles and the hearty Slow-Cooked Beef Noodle Soup. The fusion element shines through in unique offerings like the new Cola Chicken Wings and creative desserts such as Ube XLB and Chocolate XLB, which provide an interesting, modern take on traditional after-dinner treats. With its casual atmosphere, fast service, and a great selection of alcohol, this spot has become a popular choice for lunch, dinner, and late-night food runs among locals, families, and solo diners in the San Jose area.

Serious Dumpling boasts a premium location at 49 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA, placing it directly within the sought-after San Pedro Square neighborhood. This prime spot in downtown San Jose ensures easy access for those working nearby, attending events, or exploring the city.

Accessibility for all California patrons is a priority at this location. The restaurant provides a wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating within the dining area. While the restaurant itself is compact, its integration into the greater San Pedro Square area means parking options are plentiful, though varied:

• Parking Options: Diners can utilize the free street parking that may be available in the vicinity, or choose from multiple nearby paid options, including a free parking lot, a paid parking lot, paid street parking, and a paid parking garage (such as the Market & San Pedro Square Garage, which offers the first 90 minutes of parking for free).
• Atmosphere and Seating: The venue maintains a casual and friendly atmosphere. Guests have the option of comfortable dine-in seating or utilizing the outdoor seating area, which is a major draw, especially in the mild California weather. For those dining with furry companions, dogs are allowed outside.

Serious Dumpling provides a comprehensive suite of services designed for ultimate convenience, catering to the busy lifestyle of Bay Area residents.

• Dine-in and Quick Service: Offers full dine-in table service for both lunch and dinner, with a reputation for fast service, perfect for quick bites during the workday.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options for both takeout and delivery ensure that customers can enjoy their dumplings and noodles at home or the office.
• Late-Night Availability: The restaurant serves late-night food, making it an excellent option for a post-event meal or a late dinner.
• Full Bar Offerings: A well-stocked bar offers Alcohol, Beer (including draft pitchers), Wine (Red and White), Cocktails, and a notable selection of traditional and specialty Sake, including Sake Cocktails (Lychee, Mango, Strawberry, Grape).
• Happy Hour Specials: A featured Happy Hour offers $2 off all draft beer, notably running all day Tuesday through Thursday, a great incentive for mid-week enjoyment.
• Reservations and Catering: Serious Dumpling accepts reservations for planning ahead and also offers catering services for events and gatherings.
• Inclusivity and Amenities: Provides a gender-neutral restroom, standard restroom, and free Wi-Fi for all patrons, and is family-friendly with high chairs available.

The unique selling points of Serious Dumpling are centered on its culinary specialties, contemporary fusion offerings, and social atmosphere.

• Signature Dumpling Expertise: The restaurant's serious approach to dumplings is its core highlight, featuring a wide variety including the renowned Xiao Long Bao (XLB), the pan-fried Sheng Jian Bao (SJB), and boiled favorites like Lamb Dumplings and Shrimp Pork & Chive Dumplings, offering a true dim sum experience.
• Asian Fusion Menu Items: The menu stands out with creative fusion dishes such as the Curry Beef SJB (pan-fried soup dumpling), Curry Rice, the intriguing Cola Chicken Wings, and the unique Ube and Chocolate dessert XLB. The savory appetizers like Chicken Wontons in Chili Oil and Roti Prata also add an Asian fusion flair.
• Extensive Drink Program: Operating as a Bar/Dim Sum restaurant, the drink menu is a major feature. It goes far beyond typical Chinese restaurants by offering draft beers, full wine service, Hot Sake, and Sparkling Sake Cocktails, ensuring it is a great spot to socialize and enjoy a drink with a meal.
• Central Downtown Vibe: Located in a high-energy area, the casual and “tight atmosphere” is perfect for a social outing. Its designation for 'Sports' highlights a welcoming environment for game-day viewing or discussion, attracting a crowd of locals.
• Acclaimed Noodle Dishes: The Garlic Noodles are frequently praised by customers and stand as a top-selling dish, celebrated for their flavor and a comforting, quick-bite style.

For making a reservation, placing a takeout order, or for questions regarding the menu and services, please use the contact information provided below.

Address: 49 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

Phone: (408) 320-2023

Serious Dumpling is an essential choice for anyone in the California Bay Area looking for a dynamic and high-quality Chinese dining experience that transcends the standard takeout fare. What makes it particularly worth choosing is the combination of its specialist approach to dumplings—mastering both the steamed Xiao Long Bao and the crisp-bottomed, pan-fried Sheng Jian Bao—and its exceptional bar program.

For the modern California diner, this restaurant perfectly merges convenience with quality. The fast service makes it ideal for a productive lunch break, while the late-night options and extensive bar menu (including a notable sake selection and a generous Happy Hour) make it a fantastic and "pretty chill" spot for evening socializing. The central location in San Pedro Square, coupled with easy accessibility features and diverse parking options, removes common urban dining frustrations. By offering unique fusion items and accommodating everyone from solo diners to large, family-friendly groups, Serious Dumpling delivers a memorable experience that is truly serious about flavor, service, and creating a great atmosphere. It is the go-to destination in San Jose for authentic dim sum staples and exciting new Asian flavors.

Serious Dumpling

49 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA