Jay's Dumpling Cafe, Nelson — Restaurant in Nelson

UPDATE MARCH 2025 I bought Dumplings x 2 and Fries last night. The Dumplings were really tasty and hot. The chips were cold. I waited in the restaurant while they were cooked. You really need to manage the cooking so everything is ready at the same time. It really did ruin our meal.

UPDATE JULY 2024 We have gone back here and the food and service are second to none. This is my favourite takeaway. They have changed the chips and you get lots.

DO NOT BUY FOOD HERE - I just had dumplings and chips delivered, there were 14 chips in an over sized box, each chip costs 40 cents. The dumplings were lukewarm This company used to be great - certainty not worth our $50 tonight. UPDATE AFTER OWNER RESPONSE - the chips are larger than McDonald's, but smaller than steak and other frozen fries you can buy. They are not gourmet by any means, I never weighted them so can not comment on weight. However 14 average size chips for $5.49 is a rip off - chips are inexpensive to purchase and I think you should provide...

Jay’s Dumpling – A Must-Visit for Dumpling Lovers

Dumplings are my love language, and Jay’s Dumpling delivers like no other. These are some of the best I’ve had anywhere in the world. The food presentation is stunning, and the restaurant vibe has a cool, arty style—playful and full of character.

From the moment I walked in, I felt so welcomed. The woman at the front was incredibly friendly and made the whole experience even better.

I ordered the pork Zhong dumplings, and they were perfection. I didn’t even need to add any of the extra sauces from the table—the flavor stood on its own, rich and balanced with just the right amount of kick. I also tried the Dan Dan noodles, and wow—the portion was generous, and every bite was packed with bold, savory goodness.

I honestly can’t stop thinking about when I can go back. I’m trying to resist eating Dan Dan noodles there every single day I’m in Nelson, but it’s a real struggle. If you love dumplings (or just ridiculously good food),...

Updated review May 2022 with previous review below. This place has changed quite a lot since my last review, the pork dumplings weren't great (the pork tasted super cheap/not great) this time around and the person who served me had her mask underneath her nose the whole time (which to be fair seems to be the standard way to wear it in Nelson but still isn't appropriate - either wear a mask correctly or don't wear it at all!).

Really great dumplings, generous servings and great service. If you're looking for a cheap but tasty meal, this...