Irvine Gets 18 Folds Closer to Perfect Soup Dumplings
Din Tai Fung began as a Taiwanese cooking oil shop in 1958. When sales declined in the 1970s, founder Bing-Yi Tang pivoted to Xiao Long Bao. That small shop became a global dumpling empire.
Photo: The Vine
Get ready to eat soup dumplings a little closer to home. Taiwanese restaurant Din Tai Fung, famous for its Xiao Long Bao and other dumplings made on site, will officially open its Irvine location on March 2.
Jess Chao, Vice President of Brand Marketing & Corporate Affairs, said in an email to The Vine that expanding to Irvine was a strategic choice.
“As a family dining destination, Irvine is the perfect location to open our third restaurant in Orange County given its diverse, family-oriented community,” Chao said. “With this new location, we’re able to serve our loyal and new guests living in or visiting the expansive Orange County area.”
The 15,000-square-foot restaurant was designed to blend modern refinement with cultural symbolism. Deep booths with thick padding offer more comfort than a typical restaurant seat. Subtle wall art depicting a koi pond lend the space serenity and intimacy despite its size. A felt ceiling installation draws inspiration from dumpling craftsmanship.
Chao said the design reflects the cultural richness of the surrounding community.
“Drawing from Chinese philosophy, nature and symbolic motifs, the space pays homage to the community’s strong connection to Asian culture,” she said. “Elements like the sculpted wood entryway, courtyard-inspired main dining area and natural textures throughout are all designed to ground the room in balance and harmony.”
During its soft-opening period, the Irvine restaurant is operating reservation-only. Beginning March 2, it will welcome walk-ins, takeout and delivery.
Guests can expect the brand’s full menu, including its signature “Golden Ratio” Xiao Long Bao, crafted using the company’s precise 18-fold, 21-gram technique. Popular dishes such as Spicy Wontons, Cucumber Salad, String Beans with Garlic and the Pear Lychee Martini will also be available.
The Irvine opening will also debut a new dish, Fried Noodles with Skirt Steak. The dish will roll out to other locations later this summer.
The restaurant is part of a measured growth strategy in the U.S., Chao said.
“Opening a third location allows us to better meet demand and make our restaurant even more accessible to our community, while maintaining the quality, care and hospitality we’re known for.”
Reservations are available online.