Photo courtesy of restaurant
NAN XIANG XIAO LONG BAO opens this summer at National Harbor.
Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao, the Michelin-recommended New York restaurant celebrated for its handcrafted soup dumplings and authentic Shanghainese cuisine, will open its newest location this summer at 180 American Way in National Harbor, just across the river from Alexandria.
Founded in Flushing, Queens in 2006, Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao has become one of New York City's most beloved Chinese restaurants, earning recommendations from the Michelin Guide for nine consecutive years and attracting diners from around the world for its signature soup dumplings, regional Chinese specialties and dedication to traditional craftsmanship.
The National Harbor opening marks the brand's second Maryland location and further expands its growing presence throughout the DMV region.
Photo courtesy of restaurant
Dumplings with steam.
"For nearly two decades, guests have traveled to Queens to experience our handcrafted soup dumplings and Shanghainese comfort food," said Eddie Zheng, CEO of Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao. "Every new restaurant gives us the opportunity to introduce another community to the tradition of Xiao Long Bao and the joy of sharing a meal together. We’re excited to become part of the National Harbor community and welcome guests around our table with the same recipes, craftsmanship, and hospitality that have defined Nan Xiang since 2006."
One of the defining features of the National Harbor location is its open-kitchen design, where guests can watch Nan Xiang's chefs prepare soup dumplings throughout the day. Every Xiao Long Bao is carefully mixed, rolled, filled, and hand-pleated before being steamed to order, creating delicate dumplings filled with rich broth and succulent fillings that have made Nan Xiang a destination for food lovers for nearly two decades.
The menu will feature many of the dishes that have earned Nan Xiang national recognition such as the Lucky Six Soup Dumplings, a colorful assortment of six signature soup dumplings featuring distinct fillings and naturally colored wrappers, including Pork, Crab & Pork, Chicken, Pork & Truffle, Luffa Shrimp & Pork, and Scallop & Pork.
While handcrafted soup dumplings remain the heart of the menu, Nan Xiang’s offerings extend far beyond the steamer basket. Designed for family-style dining and sharing, it showcases the depth of Shanghainese cuisine alongside regional Chinese specialties, from comforting noodle dishes and wok-fired stir-fries to crispy pan-fried pork buns, scallion pancakes, dim sum favorites, vegetarian offerings, and house-made fruit teas. Guests can also enjoy traditional breakfast specialties served throughout the day, including fried dough sticks paired with warm soybean milk, Northern-style pastries, and other comforting dishes that celebrate the rich flavors and traditions of Chinese cuisine.
The new 6,000-square-foot restaurant will seat 160 guests, including 136 indoor seats and 24 outdoor patio seats overlooking National Harbor. Designed around an open kitchen where guests can watch chefs handcraft soup dumplings throughout the day, the restaurant accommodates everything from casual lunches and family dinners to celebrations, group gatherings, and convention visitors. The space blends contemporary design with traditional Chinese influences to create a warm and welcoming dining experience.
Located along the Potomac River waterfront, National Harbor attracts millions of visitors annually and serves as one of the region's premier destinations for dining, entertainment, tourism, and conventions. The restaurant's proximity to the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, MGM National Harbor, and the waterfront promenade positions Nan Xiang to serve both local residents and visitors from across the country.
For updates, menus, and opening information, visit https://nanxiangxiaolongbao.com/ or follow @nanxiangsoupdumpling on Instagram.
