Star Chef — Restaurant in Houston

Conveniently located in the Houston Tunnels system in the McKinney food court (which also contains Top Taste, Mayuri Express, Taka Sushi and Ramen, and Time for Thai). Star Chef offers a choice of pork, chicken and veggie dumplings that are either pan-fried, steam-fried, or deep fried with sides of different kinds of soups and rice plates also available.

At lunch time on weekdays, this is a popular spot for downtown Houston workers, and many people often populate the line, though it usually moves quite quickly with wait-time not being too ridiculous. The service is good with the staff being quite friendly, and you can get a decent-sized meal of 10-12 dumplings for between $10-11.

The dumplings are decent if not great, and while there are better dumplings options in the Tunnels (such as Doozo's at the Park Shops), Star Chef is still a creditable lunch option. If I want dumplings and don't feel like making the walk to the Park Shops, Star Chef...

I got out for lunch. Is was just after 2:00 pm. The other restaurants by Star Chef were closed. I saw a woman (Coco) cleaning the equipment. I asked if they were closed. She told me yes we are closed yet, they still have some steamed dumplings. I told her I’d get 9 Steamed Pork Dumplings. I was excited. I had gone by Wednesday and had Pan Fried Pork Dumplings. It was so good then that’s why I went my today. Both times the dumplings were so good and fresh. I also had their Ginger & Soy Sauce and Chili oil. These added extra flavor. Stop by and see for yourself. I met Ms. Lee. Coco said the business has been there for over 12 years. Ms. Lee is in charge of the dumplings. She gets to work at 4:00 am to start making them. Great food, great...

AMAZING!!!! I was in Houston on vacation and discovered this spot while wandering the tunnels one day searching for lunch. The staff were warm and friendly and the food was incredible. Everything was made from scratch and tasted phenomenal. I ordered a dozen of the pork dumplings which were huge and a very good value at only $10. The fried rice was delicious as well and the egg rolls were hot, fresh, and crisp! I liked it so much I went back the next day and ordered more of everything! If you're a dumpling fan then you need to try this place. Can't wait to visit again on my next trip...