Soup Dumpling

Chinese soup dumplings (xiao long bao) originated in a Shanghai suburb in the late 19th century, when a clever restaurateur needed a hook to make his food stall stand out. The story goes that he added aspic to the filling, which liquifies when steamed, creating a ‘soup’ inside. Eating XLB around the table is a deeply social event. It has drama, interplay, gamesmanship, and an element of surprise. Wear XLB if you enjoy gathering with friends, and are curious in nature. The soup dumpling brings the unexpected.