Newark’s Main Street just got a delicious new addition, and it’s anything but ordinary!
I had the chance to check out the grand opening of Ugly Dumpling at 140 E Main Street and let me tell you, this spot is serving up serious flavor and fun. From the moment I arrived, the energy was electric! The restaurant was packed with smiling faces, excited guests, and even a few special appearances such as the Ugly Dumpling mascot himself and Delaware's beloved UD Blue Hens mascot! It was such a cool moment to see both worlds, local food and local pride, coming together right in the heart of Newark! The celebration kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the official opening of the Ugly Dumpling’s newest Newark location. Owners, staff, and community members gathered out front with contagious excitement! It wasn’t just about opening a restaurant; it felt like the start of something special for Main Street.
After the ribbon cutting, guests poured in to explore the menu, take photos with the Ugly Dumpling mascot (and even the UD Blue Hens mascot!), and enjoy the lively atmosphere. You could feel the pride and support from the Newark community with every table filled and every plate served.
DelaWHERE To Go's Amanda Baez with Ugly Dumpling Mascot.
A Must-Visit Spot for UD Students & Delaware Locals
Located just steps away from the University of Delaware, this new Main Street gem is going to be a go-to for students looking for something fun and flavorful. Whether it’s a quick lunch between classes, a dinner with friends, or a late-night bite after studying, The Ugly Dumpling hits the sweet spot between casual and cool. Its upbeat vibe, colorful interior, and open kitchen make it a perfect hangout for anyone craving something different.
Inside Ugly Dumpling
The Menu: Comfort Food with a Creative Twist
The menu at Ugly Dumpling is full of flavor and variety, blending authentic Asian comfort food with creative, modern touches. Whether you’re a dumpling lover or a first-timer, there’s something for everyone. Their Dumpling Sampler is the perfect place to start! You can taste a little bit of everything, from classic pork dumplings to chicken, veggie, and seafood varieties, all bursting with flavor and wrapped to perfection. Beyond dumplings, the menu also features delicious Dim Sum, crispy wontons, noodle dishes, and small plates that make it easy to mix, match, and share.
And don’t skip dessert, I tried the cheesecake, which was silky, light, and beautifully balanced after the rich savory dishes.
The Dumpling Sampler
Rice Dishes That Hit the Spot
If dumplings aren’t your only craving, The Ugly Dumpling has an entire lineup of rice entrées that are just as satisfying. From savory chicken teriyaki rice bowls to flavorful vegetable fried rice and hearty beef options, there’s something for every appetite. I decided to try the shrimp fried rice, and it was absolutely delicious — perfectly seasoned, loaded with fresh shrimp, and balanced with just the right amount of veggies. Each bite had that warm, wok-fried flavor that makes fried rice such a comfort dish. It’s the kind of meal that’s simple yet full of personality — and pairs perfectly with a side of dumplings or a refreshing drink from their menu.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Drinks That Sweeten the Experience
The Ugly Dumpling doesn’t just serve great food, their drink menu is full of fun, refreshing options that complement every bite. From colorful bubble teas and milk teas to classic boba drinks, there’s something for everyone, whether you want something sweet, creamy, or fruity. I went for the Honey Lemonade, and it was the perfect pick-me-up! It was light, tangy, and just sweet enough to balance the bold flavors of the dumplings and rice. The best part? Every drink is as photo-worthy as it is delicious, adding a little extra flair to the dining experience. Whether you’re pairing your meal with a boba tea or sipping something bright and citrusy like I did, their drinks definitely complete the Ugly Dumpling experience.
Honey Lemonade besides the Dumpling Sampler
Desserts Worth Saving Room For
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll definitely want to save room for dessert at The Ugly Dumpling. Their menu features a mix of classic and indulgent treats that perfectly round out the meal. You’ll find favorites like the Chocolate Chip Lava Cookie à la Mode, served warm with a scoop of ice cream that melts right into the center, pure comfort in every bite. For something rich and nostalgic, the Peanut Butter Bomb layers creamy peanut butter and chocolate for the ultimate flavor duo. Of course, you can never go wrong with a scoop (or two) of ice cream and is available in chocolate or vanilla for a simple, satisfying finish.
I went with the New York Style Cheesecake, and it was smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced with just the right sweetness. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a little reward after a flavorful meal. Whether you go classic or indulgent, Ugly Dumpling’s desserts are just as much of an experience as the rest of their menu.
Made Fresh, Right Before Your Eyes
One of the things that makes The Ugly Dumpling stand out is the experience of watching the chefs in action. As soon as you walk in, you can see them behind the glass, rolling, folding, and shaping dumplings by hand with incredible precision. Each one is made fresh, filled with flavorful ingredients, and sealed with that signature pleated edge that takes skill (and lots of practice) to perfect.
There’s something mesmerizing about it, the rhythm of their hands and the teamwork happening behind the counter. It adds a sense of authenticity and excitement to your meal, like you’re getting a front-row seat to the craft behind the food. I managed to snap a few photos of the chefs mid-action, and it really captures the artistry that goes into every single dumpling.
Watching them work makes you appreciate the meal even more, its handmade comfort food done right.
Behind the scenes look at the dumpling making process.
The DelaWHERE To Go Verdict
The grand opening of The Ugly Dumpling was more than just a new restaurant launch, it was a celebration of food, culture, and community right in the heart of Newark. From the fresh, handcrafted dumplings to the refreshing honey lemonade and the lively energy of the crowd, every moment felt special. Whether you’re a UD student looking for your next lunch spot, a foodie on the hunt for something new, or just someone who loves seeing local businesses thrive, this is a must-visit. Ugly Dumpling brings together flavor, creativity, and connection, and it’s another great reason to love Main Street.
Finding Ugly Dumpling is easy, it’s located right on 140 E Main Street in the heart of Newark, Delaware, just a short walk from the University of Delaware campus. If you’re driving, there’s convenient street parking along Main Street and nearby public lots, plus it’s surrounded by plenty of other great shops and cafés if you’re making a day of it. Whether you’re coming from Wilmington, Middletown, or even across the bridge, Newark’s Main Street is simple to reach and always worth the trip, especially when dumplings this good are waiting for you!