Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings: A Taste of Shanghai

Written by: Sofia Viruez-Munoz 🇧🇴 🇺🇸

The collection of dishes tried during the food review on October 14, 2025. From left to right, top to bottom, the dishes are scallion pancakes, Nan Xiang soup dumplings, pan-fried pork buns, & stir-fried rice cakes with shredded beef (Sofia Viruez-Munoz).

Situated within the heart of Bethesda’s Westfield Montgomery, Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings delivers an authentic taste of Shanghai in an unlikely setting.

The interior is modern, creating an atmosphere that feels entirely separate from the surrounding mall. With one of its most distinctive features being the open kitchen view, diners are allowed to observe the chefs carefully crafting each soup dumpling by hand.

The menu centers around dishes deeply rooted in Shanghai home cooking. From scallion pancakes to siu mai, each dish brings something different to the table.

I had the opportunity to try many of their signature dishes.

Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings (Sofia Viruez-Munoz).

 Unsurprisingly, the soup dumplings were outstanding. The wrappers were impressively thin, the filling was hot and fresh, and the broth was full of flavor. It was an exemplary execution of a notoriously challenging dish, and these dumplings alone validate the restaurant’s reputation.

However, my personal favorite was the stir-fried rice cakes with shredded beef. This dish showcased both technique and flavor, being pleasantly pillowy and chewy, and absorbing the flavors of the sauce while retaining its texture. Each bite offered balance and demonstrated the kitchen’s ability to excel in everyday Chinese cuisine.

It is truly a dish I would return for.

Stir-Fried Rice Cakes with Shredded Beef (Sofia Viruez-Munoz).

Service throughout the meal was exceptional. Staff members were attentive and knowledgeable and ready to answer any questions I had about the menu.

One of the most impressive aspects of the experience was the restaurant’s success in delivering authentic Chinese cuisine. The seasoning in each dish was intentional and balanced, showcasing how mall-based restaurants can provide thoughtfully prepared dishes that don’t break your budget.

As the restaurant continues to establish and grow, I am excited to see how the menu options might expand as the kitchen grows in popularity. Altogether, Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings offers a beautifully executed introduction to Shanghainese cuisine, showcasing expert craftsmanship, fresh ingredients, and tradition.

Whether visiting for a casual meal or introducing friends to “xiaolongbao,” this restaurant promises an experience you won’t soon forget.