Best Dumplings

Shanghai Dumpling Shop

3319 Balboa (at 34th Avenue), 387-2088

We happily trek to this unassuming two-room establishment way out in the Richmond District for beautifully made soup dumplings, here listed as Shanghai steamed dumplings: heaven on a plate, and only $4.95 for 10 big, plump, juicy beauties. There are lots of other dumplings on offer, as well as tasty fried treats, such as the Shanghai-style crispy salt pancake stuffed with shredded cabbage. The stir-fries and clay pot specialties are also fresh and well made, but the dumplings and snack items have no peer. The more the merrier: Bring a group and stuff yourselves silly for about $5 a head.