Bowl Bowl Dumpling

Gastrology visited Bowl Bowl Dumpling on behalf of the Australian Good Food Guide.

Located on Collingwood’s bustling Smith Street, Bowl Bowl Dumpling is a local favourite.

The kitchen is led by part owner and head chef Kun Fu who has an impressive resume working in kitchens since he was 17. Starting his culinary journey in his hometown of Chengdu, Sichuan in China, Fu studied and mastered many of the eight famous Chinese cuisines and has a resume including stints at some of Melbourne’s most respected restaurants with world-renowned chefs.

Fu’s experience translates into a thoroughly enticing menu at Bowl Bowl.  One that changes seasonally, and utilises fresh ingredients with plenty of vegetarian and gluten free options such as well as dishes that meat lovers can salivate over.

We loved the vegan dish of Mapo Tofu. A stunning take on a Chinese classic, this dish was beautiful and featured soft tofu squares in a chilli sauce topped with spring onion and slithered almonds.

For something heartier the Kung Pao chicken goes perfectly with fluffy steamed rice. A dish that traces back to the Qing Dynasty, this stir fry dish is all about tender morsels of chicken things in a thick fiery sauce with peanuts, veggies and chilli. 

Dumpling fans are also spoilt for choice here - Our top pick includes the handmade Sichuan dumplings which boast juicy pork mince marinated in ginger stock, red wine, garlic, Sichuan pepper and served with chives, chilli sauce and peanuts. Simply yum!

To round off your experience, the chilled mango sago cream with pomelo is a wonderfully refreshing, delicious and interesting dessert. If you like the idea of a sweet blend of mango, citrus and coconut flavours, you’ll love this. 

Location: 88 Smith Street, Collingwood
Phone: 03 9078 3700
Link: http://bowlbowl.com.au