A first ever taste of bao buns all part of the magic at Belfast’s Dumpling Library
St Anne’s Square’s Dumpling Library in Belfast city centre was on the list. Neither my friend nor I had visited, and a quick peruse (OK, a few times perusing) the online menu prompted our booking.
Set on the corner of St Anne’s Square, we were the first visitors that day. What can I say? We like to eat early.
Sitting in a booth, the atmosphere was warm and friendly, with the team giving us enough time to look over the menu (don’t worry, we’re quite familiar) before choosing.
And it’s an impressive menu. From bao buns to small plates of steamed or pan-fried dumplings, to specialty dishes including beef fillet in truffle teriyaki sauce, don’t let the many options give you food panic.
Japanese curried mushrooms
My friend opted for the chicken and mushroom dumplings, and it’s safe to say, when she cut into them, it wasn’t what she expected.
Instead of finely chopped ingredients, it was a single dumpling- shaped piece of chicken.
Initially slightly put off, my friend ended up being pleasantly surprised by the flavour — the mushroom-flavoured dumpling adding a nice umami flavour, which paired beautifully with the garlic, chilli and soy dipping sauce — although the amount was a little small for eight dumplings.
Honey chilli chicken bao bun
For a side dish, my friend opted for the cauliflower dressed with chilli oil and what looked to be grilled ponzu chillis. Although the cauliflower had a nice al dente bite to the florets, the dish was missing just an extra element in the spice stakes.
I opted for a honey chilli chicken bao bun which came in a plump, pillowy steamed bun. I might be the only person of my generation never to have tried one before — and it was tasty.
Definitely more on the sweet side of spicy, for me it could have done with more of a chilli kick, but it remained a satisfying eat, the bun itself almost marshmallowy in texture.
Chicken dumplings
Buns can also be served lightly deep fried, but I’ll be back to re-order the steamed version.
Because we are from Northern Ireland, we also got a portion of skinny chips, served with truffle mayo. And yes, the mayo zinged with truffle, making it all the more delightful. Chips and fancy dip are well and truly one of our favourites.
Finally, we ordered Japanese curried mushrooms and these were my favourite.
Bobbing along in a mild curry sauce, they came with sliced carrot and onion, and made for a tasty side dish. Again, it wasn’t a hot curry so opt for something spicier if you’re looking for a bit of heat.
Cauliflower at Dumpling Library
The service was attentive, friendly and speedy — all ideal for a quick work lunch away from the desk.
The dining area itself has a lovely indoor/outdoor feel — something that isn’t easily apparent walking past the St Anne’s Square unit.
The lunch piqued enough interest for a return visit where we’ll attempt more of the menu.
The food
Total £43.40
The rating