Dabao Jiaozi (大宝饺子)

There's near consensus within the local Chinese community that Dabao Jiaozi is the place for home-style dumplings in Budapest – this in a city with more than 30,000 Chinese people. Dabao makes Shandong-style dumplings, which means the wrappers are on the thick and chewy side. Two versions are available, both with a base-filling of ground pork and shrimp, one layered with napa cabbage, the other shredded Chinese chives. There isn't much of a flavor difference and they're both very good.

Located within Budapest's Chinatown, DaBao is mainly a takeout operation (both in cooked and frozen form) but there are tables for sitdown customers. While waiting for your order, cast a glance at the kitchen where you'll see a cheery group of Chinese ladies hunched over a mound of dough, flattening, stuffing, and folding it with incredible efficiency. An order comprises fifteen pieces, which will easily appease the average appetite and cost about €10. Dabao also serves solid noodle soups.