Seemor
Dumpling Story - FillmoreB+Worth Trying
2114 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
· Chinese restaurant, Asian restaurant, Chinese noodle restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (356 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Handmade dumplings and quick, attentive service in a small, busy room; great for casual meals, but expect tight seating, waits, and mixed portion/value feedback.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Dumpling Story delivers excellent soup dumplings and pan-fried bao with attentive, efficient service that keeps the small room humming despite crowds. However, inconsistent execution on some dishes and tight seating that limits comfort prevent it from reaching grade A territory—it's a solid neighborhood favorite rather than a destination standout.
Restaurant Summary
A small, modern room on Fillmore hums with clatter and steam, where baskets of soup dumplings land fast and hot. Service is often attentive and efficient despite the rush. One diner summed it up: "Crowded but smooth, and the dumplings really deliver." Expect a lively, tight space and brief waits at peak times. The cooking leans traditional and craveable more than showy, with well-loved soup dumplings, crispy-bottomed pan-fried bao, and garlicky greens. There are a few twists like curry lamb dumplings and truffle-salt Brussels sprouts, but the core is classic Northern Chinese comfort. Most guests find prices fair for quality, though a few note small portions on some sides and desserts. For families, the menu is naturally kid-friendly: mild chicken or pork soup dumplings, plain noodles, and cucumber salad are easy wins. There is no special kids menu, but the format suits sharing and younger palates. Just plan for tight seating and a bustling vibe.
At a Glance
- Standout soup dumplings and pan-fried juicy bao
- Friendly, efficient table service even when busy
- Clear vegetarian and some vegan choices
- Tight space and lively noise levels
- Mixed feedback on portions and occasional add-on fees
What Sets It Apart
- handmade_soup_dumplings
- pan_fried_juicy_bao
- vegetarian_and_vegan_labels
- lively_fillmore_location
What People Love
- Juicy, well-balanced soup dumplings
- Crispy-bottomed pan-fried bao
- Garlicky green beans and cucumber salad
- Helpful staff guiding orders and right quantities
- Short, manageable waits for a busy spot
Points of Concern
- Tight seating and lively noise may not suit quiet conversations
- Isolated cleanliness incidents reported (glove in restroom, one hair, one plastic shard)
- Delivery traffic can slow service flow during peak
- Some diners perceive small portions or additive service charges
- Review patterns show signs of brief, low-detail negatives from couriers which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$30-45 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a set with one small plate ($8-10), one dumpling ($12-17), and one veggie or noodles ($14-17) per person
- For lighter eaters, share 8-piece dumplings and add cucumber salad
Perfect For
- Casual dumpling cravings before or after shopping on Fillmore
- Quick weekday lunch with a friend
- Small group sharing plates night
- Solo bite at the bar with a fast turnaround
Location Insights
Area: Upscale-commercial corridor with boutiques, cafes, and steady foot traffic; popular with locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe and well-lit with active streets; typical urban precautions apply.
Nearby: Near Fillmore retail strip, gyms, coffee shops, and other eateries; strong evening and weekend crowds.
Pacific HeightsPacific Heights is an upscale residential neighborhood with elegant homes and boutique shopping. The dining scene features a mix of high-end restaurants, cozy cafes, and trendy spots attracting well-heeled locals and visitors seeking refined experiences.
Lower Pacific HeightsLower Pacific Heights offers a slightly more eclectic and lively atmosphere with a growing number of casual eateries, bars, and small independent shops, appealing to a younger crowd while maintaining the area's overall upscale feel.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–20:30
Tuesday11:30–20:30
Wednesday11:30–20:30
Thursday11:30–20:30
Friday11:30–20:30
Saturday11:30–20:30
Sunday11:30–20:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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