When we say “Chinese dumplings” in the West, we’re usually generalizing big time. Spoiler: it’s way more complex!
Chinese cuisine draws a hard line between unleavened dough dumplings (jiaozi), fluffy leavened buns (bao), and endless variations steamed, boiled, grilled, or fried. It’s a whole universe.
In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the famous bao (that fluffy cloud-like bun everyone loves) and explain how Japanese gyoza are basically the cousins of Chinese dumplings.
Thanks to its historic community, Milan has one of the best scenes in Europe for authentic dumplings, going way beyond the basic “tourist versions.” Here are our top picks.
Fratelli Ravioli
Via Casale 3, Milan
Navigli Area | Google Maps
Facebook Page
The go-to spot for variety and creativity. Traditional, steamed, fried, dim sum style, or modern twists—they have it all. The real MVPs are the colorful dumplings: instantly recognizable, delicious, and totally Instagram-worthy.
Bao Zi (Mr. Bao)
Via Paolo Sarpi 46, Milan
Sarpi Area | Google Maps
A quick lesson in food culture: while we call everything a “dumpling,” the Chinese distinguish clearly. Baozi (or just bao) are the round, fluffy ones. They use leavened dough, soft and airy, usually steamed. At Mr. Bao, you can try a huge variety, both sweet and savory. Pure comfort food.
At Bao Zi (Mr. Bao), you can taste a wide variety of bao, both sweet and savory.
Kung Fu Bao
Viale Monza 37, Milan
NoLo Area | Google Maps
Website: kungfubao.it
A young, curated chain with a modern, fun vibe—definitely more lively than your average traditional spot. Besides the main hub in Loreto, they have take-away shops in Sarpi, Città Studi, and Magenta. Ideal for a quality grab-and-go lunch.
Raviolando
Via dell’Unione 6, Milan
City Center | Google Maps
Instagram Profile
A small, casual spot specializing in thin-skinned fried dumplings. Here you’ll also find the Gua Bao, the “open” bun that looks like a taco, where the filling is visible. Originating from Fujian (koah-pau), it’s now a global hit. They also serve bubble tea, so it’s a win-win.
Ravioli Nordest
Via Luigi Canonica 40, Milan
Sarpi Area | Google Maps
A historically significant spot. Northeastern China (Manchuria) played a central role in spreading dumplings: the Manchu people brought them to Beijing, and the Japanese adapted them into gyoza. This restaurant represents a specific, authentic tradition, not a generic version.
Ravioleria Sarpi
Via Paolo Sarpi 27, Milan
Sarpi Area | Google Maps
laravioleriasarpi.com
The rockstar of dumplings in Milan. Open kitchen (mesmerizing), long queues on weekends, and massive popularity. Fun fact: it’s mostly frequented by Italians who love the high-quality street food vibe. They even organize dumpling-making workshops.
This selection is CTM’s take. Agree? Spill the tea! or suggest a spot: we want to hear from you.
We’ll keep this list fresh if places become cringe, close down, or if we find new gems.