Din Tai Fung, New York NY

Soup Dumplings and a Broadway Sprint: Din Tai Fung NYC

If you’ve been around here long enough, you already know I have a serious crush on Din Tai Fung. Tokyo stole my heart first, then San Diego kept the spark alive, and now—hello, New York.

On a recent quick trip to the city with my friend Alex, I had just one day, one Broadway show, and one mission: get to Din Tai Fung at all costs. I made a reservation for 1:15 PM like the responsible adult I pretend to be, but then the day unraveled faster than a Chinatown knockoff purse. We missed the 15-minute grace window, and I thought the dumpling dream was over.

But never underestimate my determination (or my pleading skills). After our show, we sprinted to Din Tai Fung’s new location inside the Shops at Columbus Circle—yes, it's their first East Coast spot, and it's massive. When we arrived, I went straight to the host stand and met Haya, who instantly restored my faith in humanity. I explained our tragic missed reservation, and she smiled like someone who’s seen it all. She popped us on the waitlist and directed us to the bar. Each interaction with her was wonderful. She easily made conversation and genuinely looked like she enjoys her job 🤩.

At the bar, I ordered my go-to: the Pear Lychee Martini. It’s sweet, refreshing, and sneaky—exactly how I like my drinks. One drink in and boom, our table was ready. Just like that. Dumpling destiny, baby.

Naturally, I wasted no time and ordered two baskets of the Kurobuta Pork Xiao Long Bao. These little soup bombs never miss. The wrapper is thin and delicate, the broth is flavorful, and the temperature is perfectly ready-to-eat (no lip-scorching here). I don’t know how they do it, but I don’t ask questions. I just eat.

Now, let’s talk about the Great Soup Dumpling Debate. Alex followed the “proper” technique: place the dumpling on a spoon, poke it open, sip the soup, then bite. I, on the other hand, am more of a thrill-seeker. I pop the whole thing in my mouth like I’m defusing a delicious bomb. We agreed to disagree and ordered another round.

Final thoughts: Din Tai Fung is now officially a non-negotiable part of my NYC (and California) routine. The food is consistent, the service is kind, and the dumplings are borderline emotional support-worthy.

Din Tai Fung, if you're reading this: Miami is ready. Call me.

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