Dumplings and Affordable Eats in Houston’s Chinatown: San Dong Noodle House

There’s nothing quite like finding a spot that serves delicious, quality food at low prices, and that’s exactly what we discovered at San Dong Noodle House! A no-frills gem tucked away in the heart of Chinatown Houston. This family-run handmade dumplings and noodle restaurant has been on our must-try list for ages, and after finally stopping by, we can confidently say it’s worth all the hype!

We dropped in on a weekday afternoon, and the place was packed—always a great sign. Their famous pork chive dumplings were the first thing we ordered, and they were everything we had hoped for. Each dumpling was plump and juicy, with perfectly seasoned filling wrapped in a thin, tender dough. We also couldn’t resist the pan-fried dumplings, which had the most satisfying crispy bottoms while staying soft and chewy on top. They disappeared from our plate way too fast!

Of course, we had to try their Beef Noodle Soup, and it might just be our new go-to. The broth was rich and comforting, packed with deep, savory flavors that tasted like they had been simmering for hours. The noodles were perfectly chewy, soaking up all that delicious broth, and the tender slices of beef made it an absolute must-order. It was the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out—especially on a chilly day.

Beyond the incredible flavors, what really blew us away was the value. Everything we ordered came out to under $30, and the portions were generous enough to leave us stuffed. The shop was on the smaller side, so dine in or grab food to go on your preference. Either way, you’re getting some of the best bang for your buck in town!

And if you’re like us and love stocking up on comfort food, don’t skip their takeaway section. They sell fresh handmade noodles, steamed buns, and frozen dumplings so you can bring a little piece of San Dong Noodle House home with you. We’ll definitely be back soon, and next time, we’re doubling up on those dumplings!