Review

Located on the increasingly popular dining terrace of the recently renovated Gaysorn Amarin, Jiaozi Jiuba is a modern spin on the traditional hole-in-the-wall shophouse joint. A relaxed and buzzing spot for Chinese quick bites, diners pop in at all times of day for a wide array of varietal dumplings, memorable shrimp fried rice, and comforting noodle soups. Tables run small and in fairly close quarters, but this only adds to the fun, especially as a resident DJ is playing lively, though unintrusive beats. As Jiaozi Jiuba is most well-known for its dumplings, trying at least one option is obligatory. Selecting one from the eye-widening range may prove challenging, but the house originals are an excellent place to start and won’t disappoint. Be sure to dip with the tangy and umami house vinegar for perfectly complementary flavours. For the more adventurous, gourmet uni yuzu shrimp dumplings are a refreshing luxury, while the black truffle cream dumplings offer a decadent Western fusion. Besides dumplings, jenga pumpkin fries can also be spotted on most tables, coated in fried salted egg yolk and stacked as the name suggests. For larger plates, a highly recommended Jiaozi fried rice epitomises wok-mastery, seasoned with mushroom paste, egg, and minced shrimp. Black charcoal noodles with caramelised pork belly is another favourite, managing to be familiarly comforting yet surprising, all at the same time. For a sweet treat, try gelato oolong honey mocha boba a delicious mess.