First Look: Hoppy Dumpling in South Yarra Pairs Dumplings With Local Beers

Melbourne has no shortage of dumpling spots. From Chinatown institutions to suburban stalwarts, the city has long embraced the dish as both comfort food and social ritual. Rarer is a place where the dumplings and drinks are treated with equal reverence.

“Our concept is dumplings that suit drinking culture,” says Gary Zhao, founder of Hoppy Dumpling. “Something that pairs naturally with beer and encourages a more social way of eating.”

Zhao moved from Dongbei in China to Australia in 2016, eventually opening his first dumpling shop on Russell Street in 2024. Lucky Dumpling quickly won over city workers and late-night crowds with its hearty northern Chinese dumplings – a style commonly found in Melbourne that’s defined by thick wheat-based wrappers. Zhao rebranded the business to Hoppy Dumpling shortly after, to make room for his passion for beer.

The newly opened South Yarra location, inside the 670 Chapel shopping centre, is inspired by the easygoing energy of izakayas, says Zhao. It nudges the Hoppy Dumpling concept closer toward a neighbourhood drinking spot, leaning further into the promise of its new name: beer and dumplings.

“We’ve always wanted to expand Hoppy Dumpling into more communities around Melbourne,” Zhao says. “With this venue we’re also experimenting with a slightly different vibe for the brand.”

The drinks list moves between East Asian teas and Australian brews, and the Chapel Street outpost introduces beer on tap for the first time. Pots of puer and Xihu longjing (dragon well) tea sit alongside taps pouring beers from Rocky Ridge Brewing Co and Co-Conspirators.

The menu sticks close to the hits that built the Russell Street following. Pan-fried Wagyu beef dumplings and bowls of Sichuan dandan noodles headline the offering, alongside xiaolongbao. One signature is the chicken prawn dumpling, which combines chicken, prawn and sweet corn for a filling that’s light, slightly sweet.

Inside, the dining room is bright and relaxed, with a window into the kitchen where dumplings are folded and pan-fried throughout the day. A self-serve sauce station lets diners customise each bite, encouraging the kind of family-style dining Zhao grew up with in Dongbei. 

“For us, dumplings are about family and friends coming together,” he says. “It’s about sharing happiness as much as sharing food.”

Hoppy Dumpling
G 015/670 Chapel Street, South Yarra
No phone

Hours:
Sun to Thu 10.30am–9pm
Fri & Sat 10.30am–10pm

hoppydumpling.com
@hoppydumpling