Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Post: Epic Dumpling

When the art of crafting perfect dumplings meets the ease of modern food ordering, something special happens. In this exclusive Q&A, we sit down with Epic Dumpling, a beloved restaurant rooted in generations of Chinese culinary tradition, and Sharebite, the innovative platform streamlining corporate dining with a mission to fight hunger. Together, they’re serving up more than just delicious meals. They’re blending heritage, flavor, and community impact. From the story behind Epic Dumpling’s name to the seamless partnership that brings their Pork and Napa Cabbage Dumplings to offices, this conversation uncovers the heart of their collaboration and celebrates the vibrant flavors of AAPI heritage.

Sharebite & Epic Dumpling’s Candid Q&A

Q: Can you describe the story behind your restaurant's name and what it represents?

A: We named our restaurant Epic Dumpling to honor my wife’s family tradition of crafting top-notch dumplings and Chinese dim sum, a legacy passed down through generations of skill and love. The word "Epic" reflects our passion for bold, authentic flavors and unforgettable dining experiences, resonating beautifully with its Chinese translation, 一品 (Yīpǐn), meaning "top-notch" or "first-class." "Dumpling" pays homage to this cherished craft, blending heritage with excellence. Together, the name embodies our commitment to making every bite a celebration of her family’s culinary artistry and unparalleled quality.

Q: What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you personally, and how is it celebrated at your restaurant? 

A: AAPI Heritage Month is deeply personal to me, as it’s a time to honor my wife’s family tradition of crafting exquisite dumplings, a practice rooted in love and passed down through generations. This month celebrates the vibrant cultures and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities, and I’m proud to share our heritage through Epic Dumpling, a name inspired by 一品 (Yīpǐn), meaning "top-notch," reflecting our commitment to excellence. To me, it’s about connecting people through food and stories that carry our history forward.

Q: What is a lesser-known ingredient or flavor profile from your heritage that you'd like to introduce to your customers?

A: As a Hakka from southern China myself, I’m thrilled to introduce taro, a lesser-known ingredient cherished in Hakka cuisine, to our customers at Epic Dumpling. This starchy root, with its nutty, slightly sweet flavor and creamy texture, embodies the comforting, resourceful spirit of my Hakka heritage. Growing up, I savored my family’s taro dishes, a tradition that inspires me today.  We’re crafting a Hakka-style taro & peanut pancake dim sum—a crispy taro strips mixed with peanuts for extra crunchiness.  Join us at Epic Dumpling to taste this unique Hakka flavor and celebrate the heart of our heritage!

Q: What are some common traditions or customs surrounding food preparation and eating in your community?

A: One common tradition is the communal art of making dumplings, a ritual many Chinese families hold dear. My wife often told me her family would gather around the table, each person taking a role—chopping vegetables, kneading dough, mixing savory fillings, or folding wrappers in a friendly competition to craft the perfect dumpling. This process, often filled with laughter and stories, reflects the spirit of collaboration and pride in craftsmanship, especially during festivals like Lunar New Year, when dumplings symbolize prosperity and unity.

Q: What is your family's favorite food based on your culture?

A: As a Hakka from southern China and my wife from Northern China, we have different favorite foods based on our culture.   My favorite food is a beloved Hakka dish of glutinous rice dumplings in sweet, fermented rice wine that brings warmth and joy. These silky dumplings, with their soft, chewy texture and subtly alcoholic tang, are a Hakka staple, especially during the Lantern Festival, symbolizing harmony and togetherness. My wife, who adores the fiery, numbing flavors of Sichuan spicy hot pot brimming with bold spices, adds her passion for vibrant tastes to our meals. 

Q: Of all the dishes you offer, which do you recommend for a first time customer?

A: I’d love for first-time customers to try our Pork and Napa Cabbage Dumplings and Shanghai Soup Dumplings, or Xiao Long Bao. The Pork and Napa Cabbage Dumplings are savory and juicy, with a crisp wrapper and a touch of cabbage sweetness—pure comfort in every bite. Xiao Long Bao steals the show, each delicate dumpling bursting with warm, aromatic pork broth wrapped in a thin dough skin, a testament to our dumpling making skills.

Q: What do you love most about working with Sharebite?

A: Partnering with Sharebite is a joy for our restaurant, thanks to their seamless corporate ordering process that keeps our kitchen humming. What stands out most is their weekly order forecasts, which let us prep our dishes with precision. Their drivers are punctual, delivering our dishes hot to corporate clients, while clear labels and timely reminder calls make every order smooth and error-free. I also appreciate Sharebite’s commitment to the community, donating meals to fight hunger, which aligns with our values as my wife and I are first generation immigrant business owners. 

A Flavorful Partnership That Feeds Body and Soul

From the communal joy of folding dumplings to the precision of Sharebite’s corporate ordering, this Q&A reveals a partnership that’s as flavorful as it is impactful. Epic Dumpling’s dedication to crafting top-notch dishes, like their Hakka-inspired taro pancake and Xiao Long Bao, shines through, while Sharebite’s commitment to top-notch service and commitment to the community amplifies their reach. Together, they’re not just feeding appetites but fostering connection and tradition. Ready to taste the magic for yourself?