You know what sounds really good on a cold November afternoon? A plate of freshly made dumplings, preferably somewhere warm where you can forget about the weather for a while.
And if you’re willing to take a little road trip, Iowa has some great places to satisfy that craving. You’ll find restaurants serving traditional Chinese dumplings, Nepalese momos, and plenty of other delicious variations.
I’ve always liked how ordering dumplings gives you an excuse to try several things at once.
Do you go for the crispy potstickers or the soft steamed ones? Personally, I’d rather order both than spend the entire meal wondering what I missed.
These thirteen Iowa restaurants make a strong case for getting out of the house this November.
Just check the menu before you go, because some of the best dumpling options are only available on certain days.
1. Oolong Asian Cuisine, Dubuque
Decision trouble is real when a menu offers this many fillings. Luckily, Oolong found a clever fix.
The Duo Dumpling order lets you pick two different fillings and receive three dumplings of each. That means nobody at my table had to argue about pork versus chicken, because we simply got both.
Located in downtown Dubuque, this intimate spot serves steamed and pan-fried dumplings with fillings that go far beyond the basics. Pork and vegetable and chicken and vegetable are the easy starting points.
The more adventurous combinations bring in scallops, shrimp, leeks, and king oyster mushrooms. The pork, leek, and shrimp version was my personal favorite, with a juicy bite and a fresh green flavor from the leeks.
On a gray November afternoon, I also recommend the dumplings served in warm beef broth with cilantro and scallions. It feels like a hug in a bowl, and it warms your hands before it warms your stomach.
The dining room is relaxed and quiet, so plan to linger a little.
Best dumplings to try: Duo Dumpling, Pork-Leek-Shrimp Dumplings, and Beef Soup and Dumplings.
Address: 145 W 11th St, Dubuque, IA 52001
2. Dumpling House, Des Moines
Every wrapper here starts as a ball of dough. Somebody rolls it out by hand, and you can taste the difference.
Dumpling House is a small, family-operated kitchen focused on traditional northern Chinese recipes. Both the wrappers and the fillings are made by hand, which is rarer than you might think.
The menu sticks to a short, confident list. Pork with napa cabbage is the classic, chicken comes with mushrooms, beef pairs with onions, and the vegetarian dumplings pack zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms.
You can order them steamed or as pan-fried potstickers. I went with potstickers for the crispy bottoms, then stole a few steamed ones from my friend to compare.
The wonton soups are the November move, especially if the wind is doing its usual thing outside.
Here is the important part. Dumpling House runs on a limited schedule, and its website currently lists Sunday evening service from 5:30 to 9 p.m., plus Saturday farmers market appearances.
Check before you drive, because a surprise closed sign is the saddest dumpling story.
Best dumplings to try: Pork with Napa Cabbage, Chicken with Mushrooms, and Vegetable Dumplings.
Address: 1139 24th St, Des Moines, IA 50311
3. Kathmandu Restaurant, Windsor Heights
Momos are one of the most famous dishes in Nepal. In Windsor Heights, they are also a smart way to beat the cold.
Kathmandu Restaurant brings traditional Nepalese cooking to the Des Moines metro area, and momos hold a proud spot on its long menu. These stuffed dumplings look a bit like Chinese dumplings, but the spices tell a different story.
I started with the steamed chicken momos, which arrived soft, tender, and fragrant. The fried momos came next, with a golden crunch that made me slow down and pay attention.
If you like a little heat, the chili momos are tossed in a bold, spicy seasoning. My nose ran a bit, and I did not mind at all.
Beyond the dumplings, you can explore curries, thukpa noodle soup, and other Himalayan specialties. A bowl of thukpa next to a plate of momos is about as cozy as a November lunch gets.
The dining room is casual and easygoing. First-timers will find it a friendly place to learn what momos are all about.
Best dumplings to try: Steamed Chicken Momo, Fried Momo, and Chili Momo.
Address: 7229 Apple Valley, Windsor Heights, IA 50324
4. Chowrastha Indian Grill & Eatery, West Des Moines
Chicken momos at an Indian restaurant? That’s one delicious reason to make a stop in West Des Moines.
Chowrastha Indian Grill & Eatery serves an extensive menu of regional Indian dishes, but its dumplings deserve attention too. The Chowrastha Special Chicken Momos feature tender boneless chicken mixed with onions, coriander, and aromatic Indian spices.
Vegetarian diners have a tempting alternative. The restaurant also offers Chowrastha Special Paneer Momos, stuffed with paneer and herbs before being tossed in a flavorful house sauce.
Both options bring something different to a November dumpling hunt. The fillings are rich and savory, while the seasonings reflect the kitchen’s Indian influences.
There’s plenty more to explore once you’ve ordered your momos. The menu includes freshly prepared naan, South Indian specialties, curries, and fragrant biryani dishes.
I would start with a shared momo order before choosing a main course. That leaves room to try something unfamiliar without committing the entire meal to one dish.
The restaurant offers dine-in service and online ordering. Check the current hours before making the drive, especially if you plan to visit between lunch and dinner.
Best dumplings to try: Chowrastha Special Chicken Momos and Chowrastha Special Paneer Momos.
Address: 5910 Ashworth Rd, West Des Moines, IA 50266
5. Wong’s Chopsticks, Johnston
Weekends are when the bamboo steamers come out to play. That is my number one tip for Wong’s.
Wong’s Chopsticks is a longtime Chinese restaurant in Johnston, and its Cantonese-style dim sum is the real reason to visit. Dim sum means lots of small plates, so you get to taste a little of everything.
The har gow stole my heart. These delicate shrimp dumplings are wrapped in a thin, almost see-through skin, and they are much fancier than a standard potsticker.
The chive-and-shrimp dumplings are another winner, with bright green chives peeking through the wrapper. I ordered two baskets and still wished I had a third.
Wong’s also serves familiar Chinese-American favorites. That makes it a handy pick for families where one person wants dim sum and another just wants sweet and sour chicken.
Do not assume the full dim sum lineup is available on a Tuesday. Plan your visit around weekend service for the best dumpling experience.
Bring friends, share everything, and let the little plates pile up.
Best dumplings to try: Har Gow, Chive-and-Shrimp Dumplings, and other weekend dim sum selections.
Address: 5500 Merle Hay Rd Ste L, Johnston, IA 50131
6. Oryza Asian Cuisine and Bar, Iowa City
Eggs inside a dumpling sounded odd to me at first. One bite of the Chive Pockets changed my mind fast.
Oryza serves these large pan-fried dumplings filled with Chinese chives, scrambled eggs, and vermicelli noodles. They come with a house-made dipping sauce and make a great meatless pick.
The outside gets crisp and golden, while the inside stays soft and savory. I kept tearing off pieces long after I said I was full.
Meat fans have options too. The handcrafted pork-and-cabbage dumplings are steamed and tender, and the potstickers bring that classic crunch.
Can’t choose? The Bo Bo Platter combines several appetizers, so you can sample a bit of everything without ordering half the menu.
Beyond dumplings, the menu covers Vietnamese pho, Chinese specialties, Thai-inspired dishes, and plenty of noodle and rice meals. That variety makes Oryza an easy stop when your road trip crew cannot agree on dinner.
The dining room is comfortable and calm. Pair the Chive Pockets with a bowl of pho, and November will seem a lot friendlier.
Best dumplings to try: Chive Pockets, Steamed Pork-and-Cabbage Dumplings, and Potstickers.
Address: 5 Sturgis Corner Dr, Iowa City, IA 52246
7. NaRa Thai, Marion
Thai restaurants are usually famous for curry and noodles. NaRa Thai quietly sneaks some excellent dumplings onto the table too.
The Hagao are the stars. These steamed shrimp dumplings come with a ginger-soy dipping sauce that is sharp, salty, and a little warming.
I liked how the ginger woke up my taste buds after a long, cold drive. The shrimp inside was sweet and tender.
For something more familiar, the pork-and-cabbage potstickers are a solid choice. They are the kind of crispy, comforting bite that never goes out of style.
NaRa sits in the Cedar Rapids area, and the menu makes it easy to build a full meal around your appetizers. Thai noodle dishes, curries, and stir-fries all wait in the wings.
Spice levels can go mild or bold, so cautious eaters and heat seekers can share a table peacefully. I went medium and felt very brave about it.
The casual dining room feels extra welcoming when the wind is biting outside. Order the Hagao first, then let the rest of the meal fall into place.
Best dumplings to try: Hagao Shrimp Dumplings and Pork-and-Cabbage Potstickers.
Address: 1725 Blairs Ferry Rd #102, Marion, IA 52302
8. Mandarin Spice Asian Grill, Marion
Some evenings call for a takeout box. Others call for a real tablecloth kind of dinner, and Mandarin Spice handles that nicely.
The dining room here is more polished than a typical Chinese takeout spot. It is a good place to slow down and enjoy a long November meal.
Two dumplings deserve your attention. The steamed Shanghai pork dumplings are filled with pork and napa cabbage and served with a homemade soy-vinegar-ginger sauce.
That sauce is tangy and bright, and I may have used it on more than just the dumplings. No regrets.
The seared chicken dumplings bring a crispy edge and come with a sweet soy vinaigrette. Sweet, savory, and crunchy all at once is a hard combination to beat.
Beyond those, the menu stretches into sushi, noodle dishes, and Chinese-inspired entrées. Groups will love having so many choices on one page.
My advice is to order both dumpling plates and split them. Comparing the soft steamed ones with the seared ones is half the fun.
Best dumplings to try: Steamed Shanghai Pork Dumplings and Seared Chicken Dumplings.
Address: 1412 Twixt Town Rd, Marion, IA 52302
9. Pho House, Cedar Rapids
Soup and dumplings belong together in cold weather. Pho House understands this deeply.
This welcoming Vietnamese restaurant is best known for its big, generous noodle soups. Still, the dumpling section of the menu deserves just as much love.
The pork-and-vegetable dumplings can be ordered steamed or crispy, and both come with a savory dipping sauce. I chose crispy, because the crunch felt right on a frosty day.
The real November hero is the Dumpling/Wonton Soup. Stuffed dumplings or wontons float in warm broth, and every spoonful feels like a heater for your insides.
If you still have room, explore the traditional pho, rice noodle bowls, and other Vietnamese favorites. The broth here is rich and full of flavor.
Pho House sits in the Fountains shopping area, which makes parking simple. You can even grab a few errands before or after your meal.
For travelers who want a full, warming meal instead of a quick snack, this stop is a strong pick. Bring an appetite and maybe a spare napkin for the broth splashes.
Best dumplings to try: Pork Dumplings, Crispy Dumplings, and Dumpling/Wonton Soup.
Address: 5300 Fountains Dr NE #108, Cedar Rapids, IA 52411
10. Szechuan House, Ames
College towns know good, filling food. Ames is no exception, and Szechuan House proves it.
Sitting near Iowa State University, this restaurant focuses on bold Sichuan flavors. The spice here is not shy, and that is a big part of the charm.
For dumplings, start with the steamed pork dumplings. They are simple, soft, and a great introduction to the kitchen before the hotter dishes arrive.
The Three Ingredient Potstickers are the other must-order item. They bring a different texture, with a crisp bottom that is perfect for sharing.
Once the dumplings disappear, explore the spicy noodle dishes and seasoned meats. These regional recipes go well beyond the usual takeout combos, so be curious.
Portions are generous, which makes this a great stop for a group. My friends and I ordered family style and still had leftovers for the drive home.
A small tip: keep a cool drink nearby if you go for the spiciest plates. The dumplings make a nice soft landing between fiery bites.
Best dumplings to try: Steamed Pork Dumplings and Three Ingredient Potstickers.
Address: 3605 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50014
11. Jasmine Thai Restaurant, Sioux City
Northwest Iowa gets windy in November. A plate of potstickers in Sioux City makes that wind a lot easier to forgive.
Jasmine Thai serves pork potstickers filled with ground pork, cabbage, and scallions. They arrive with a ginger dipping sauce that adds a zippy, fresh kick.
Prefer a softer bite? You can order steamed potstickers too.
I tried both and decided the crispy ones win on texture, while the steamed ones win on juiciness.
The rest of the menu is packed with Thai favorites. Pad Thai, drunken noodles, coconut-based curries, and fragrant noodle soups all compete for your attention.
Prices are friendly and portions are generous. That combination matters a lot when you are road-tripping and watching your budget.
The casual dining room makes it easy to stop in without any fuss. Muddy boots and puffy jackets fit right in.
If you are new to dumplings, this is a very approachable place to start. Order one plate of each style and let your taste buds cast the deciding vote.
Best dumplings to try: Pork Potstickers and Steamed Potstickers.
Address: 3069 Floyd Blvd, Sioux City, IA 51108
12. Golden China, Waterloo
Long-running restaurants earn their loyal fans for a reason. Golden China has been feeding Waterloo for years, and the dumplings help explain why.
The menu offers two clear choices. Pork-and-vegetable potstickers come with a nicely seared outside, while shrimp dumplings give seafood lovers something lighter.
I ordered both, of course. Comparing them side by side was a delicious little science experiment.
The potstickers had that satisfying crunch on the bottom and a hearty filling. The shrimp dumplings felt more delicate and clean, almost like a palate cleanser.
Golden China also serves noodle dishes, fried rice, Chinese soups, and several plates made for sharing. A big bowl of soup next to your dumplings is a great idea on a cold day.
The dining room is comfortable and relaxed. It works well for a slow lunch or an easy weeknight dinner.
Planning a dumpling stop in Waterloo? Skip the hard decision and get both varieties.
Your road trip deserves a taste test, and your stomach will happily volunteer.
Best dumplings to try: Pork-and-Vegetable Potstickers and Shrimp Dumplings.
Address: 106 Brookeridge Dr, Waterloo, IA 50702
13. Szechuan House, Iowa City
Red chili oil is the finale this trip deserves. Downtown Iowa City delivers it with style.
Szechuan House serves meat-filled wontons in a spicy sauce that glistens on the plate. They are silky, tender, and full of heat that builds slowly.
For a calmer bite, the steamed Chinese dumplings are a classic. The Chinese potstickers add crunch and balance out the fiery wontons nicely.
My strategy was simple. I ordered all three and shared them, which let everyone try each style and each sauce.
The kitchen also shines with regional Sichuan cooking. Spicy chicken, dry-pot dishes, and traditional vegetable plates are all worth a look.
The location makes it easy to turn dinner into an afternoon outing. Bookstores, shops, and cultural spots are close by, so walk off your meal while browsing.
Ending a November road trip with warm hands, a happy belly, and slightly tingly lips feels just right. Consider it the spiciest goodbye on the whole list.
Best dumplings to try: Steamed Chinese Dumplings, Chinese Potstickers, and Meat Wontons in Spicy Sauce.
Address: 320 E Burlington St, Iowa City, IA 52240