Say hello to Lucky Dumplings, Dumpling Darlings’ takeaway spinoff concept

I’ve tried Dumpling Darlings only once, but I left singing praises and promising that I’d revisit soon. If you share the same sentiment, you’ll be glad to know that the folks behind that well-loved restaurant have opened Lucky Dumplings in Ion Orchard.

This newly-opened eatery boasts of a convenient takeaway concept; a completely different vibe from the hipster dumpling and noodle restaurant. While similar, Lucky Dumplings is a different brand and business from Dumpling Darlings.

This takeaway shop offers six dumplings for S$5.90, promising a more affordable meal as compared to Dumpling Darlings, where five pieces start at S$8. The menu at Ion Orchard is also has less options.

Our Muslim friends would also be glad to know that the menu at Lucky Dumplings contains no pork or lard, and the brand is currently working towards obtaining a halal certification.

On the menu is The Original Lucky (S$5.90 for six pieces), where every bite consists of a simple yet fulfilling combination of chicken with Chinese cabbage marinated with tare and pan fried to a crisp golden brown. If spicy is more your speed, the Mala Chicken Dumplings (S$5.90 for six pieces) isn’t to be missed during your visit to Lucky Dumplings. It’s got the bright, tongue-numbing flavour from Sichuan peppercorn, together with chilli oil, coriander, and bay leaves. I’m a huge spice fan myself, and you can bet that this is going to be the first thing I try.

The folks at Lucky Dumplings have also come up with a fusion option— the Kimchi and Cheese Dumplings (S$6.90) where their signature chicken dumplings are mixed with chopped piquant kimchi, studded with savoury cheddar, and topped with gochujang and sesame oil. Deep fried until golden brown perfection, just one order of these gems isn’t going to be enough.