At Lao Tian Dumpling House, simplicity is key. Located just a few minutes’ walk from Northwestern’s campus, there’s nothing flashy about this Chinese restaurant at first glance. But that’s exactly what makes the experience work—because once you taste the food, it tells a completely different story.
If you haven’t yet gotten the chance to try Lao Tian’s legendary dumplings for yourself, here’s the good news: Chef Jun Tian is bringing them to campus at this year’s Spoonfest on May 8th.
From the dough to the filling, every aspect of each dumpling at Lao Tian is handmade to order. The menu offers a wide rang of fillings to suit any craving: chicken, beef, lamb, cabbage, dill, the list goes on. No matter what type of dumplings you order, each one is savory, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
When they arrive, they’re steaming hot. Break one open and you’ll find a rich, juicy filling that practically spills out, whether it’s seasoned chicken, deeply savory beef, or fragrant lamb. The vegetable options offer a fresh, slightly sweet contrast wrapped in warm dough. Dip them in a tangy vinegar sauce with a hint of chili oil, and the flavors deepen even further.
Beyond dumplings, Lao Tian has another specialty: Roasted Peking Duck. While this rare delicacy won’t be at Spoonfest, it’s worth trying if you’re looking to expand your palette. Just make sure to reserve the Peking duck in advance, and bring some hungry friends with you.
Since opening in 2024, the restaurant’s success has only continued to grow. Building on the popularity of the original dumpling house, Chef Tian opened Tian Bistro in 2025. Unlike the original dumpling house, Tian Bistro is a full-service dine-in restaurant in a much larger space.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try Lao Tian dumplings at Spoonfest!