Menu of 小扬生煎 Little Yum Dumpling Northcote in Auckland, New Zealand

Menu Overview

小扬生煎 Little Yum Dumpling Northcote is a humble dumpling restaurant nestled in Northcote, Auckland, that delivers authentic Chinese flavors without fanfare. Located at Shop 5/51 Pearn Crescent, it offers a compact yet focused menu that showcases some of the best traditional dumpling and bun varieties you can find in the city.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the Steamed Soup Buns (Xiao Long Bao). These buns are generously filled with hot, juicy pork broth and meat, wrapped in a delicate, slightly crispy dough dusted with a blend of white and black sesame seeds. While they may not be the absolute best xiao long bao in New Zealand, they hold their own with a rich, authentic taste and satisfy cravings for this Shanghai classic. The suggestion to dip them in vinegar helps balance the mild saltiness and enhances the complex flavors.

The Fried Pork Buns deserve special mention; they boast a crispy, golden bottom with a succulent, juicy core. Customers rave about the texture and the burst of flavorful juices inside, making it one of the must-try items here. Accompanying this is the Prawn Veggie and Pork Wonton Soup, which stands out with its soft, tender wonton skins and a broth rich in umami, edged by notes of dried shrimp. This soup is both comforting and filling, ideal for a light yet satisfying meal.

Beyond dumplings and buns, the menu’s Beef Noodle Soup and traditional sides like Bean Curd with Wood Ear and Dried Daylily (烤麸) and Deep-Fried Fish with Soy Sauce add depth and variety. The beef noodle soup warms you with a flavorful broth and tender beef slices—a great choice for colder days.

The atmosphere at 小扬生煎 is simple and unpretentious. The space is tight with only 12 seats, and the door struggles to close fully, letting in drafts while you eat. While not ideal for comfort, the no-frills setting places the spotlight purely on the food. Service is friendly and straightforward, reflecting a genuine focus on quality rather than décor or extravagance.

Overall, 小扬生煎 Little Yum Dumpling Northcote is a hidden gem for lovers of authentic Chinese dumplings and buns. It excels at delivering traditional flavors, generous portions, and reasonable prices. Whether it’s the crispy fried pork buns, the steaming prawn and pork wontons, or the hearty beef noodles, each bite conveys an honest culinary experience. If you seek a straightforward, flavorful meal steeped in genuine tradition, this place deserves a spot on your must-try list.