I recently joined a dumpling-making workshop at Little Karp in Richmond, BC, and the experience was nothing short of delightful. The workshop perfectly captured the sense of community and connectedness that good food can foster. Richmond’s Dumpling Trail, with its revitalized lineup of global dumpling varieties, has quickly become a beacon to the city’s multicultural spirit—and Little Karp stands out as a must-stop along the way.
Discovering Little Karp
Nestled in Richmond, Little Karp thrives on West Coast bounty: fresh seafood, abundant produce, and a diverse blend of international influences. The enthusiastic young team behind Little Karp brings together varied cultural backgrounds, sharing a common passion for food and beverage. The result is a welcoming atmosphere where guests can explore tastes from around the world. During my visit, I got a glimpse of their passion firsthand. Not only did they guide us through the dumpling-making process, but they also hosted us in a bright and inviting space where it felt natural to laugh, share stories, and learn together.
Immersive Dumpling Workshop
The main event was, of course, the dumpling workshop. We started with basic techniques—learning how to roll and shape the dough, how to fill each dumpling with the perfect amount of stuffing, and, most importantly, how to fold them so the fillings wouldn’t spill out during cooking. Our hosts were patient teachers, walking us through each step, from mixing the dough to pinching those all-important dumpling “pleats.”
As our hands got busy, we chatted with fellow participants, comparing techniques and occasionally laughing at misshapen dumplings. The best part of the workshop was the sense of togetherness. There’s something about working with food—preparing it, learning cultural traditions around it—that naturally pulls people closer. Even though we all came with different levels of experience and different backgrounds, by the end, it felt like we’d accomplished something meaningful and delicious together.
A Taste of Little Karp’s Menu
After our dumpling workshop, we were treated to several of Little Karp’s signature dishes, each reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and creative presentations. The Lobster Risotto stood out as a showstopper, packed with mussels, clams, squid, shrimp, and a succulent lobster tail in a house-made lobster sauce—truly indulgent. We sampled the Lobster “Meet” Salad, loaded with seasonal fruits, greens, and a delightful sesame sauce. For a punch of flavor and spice, the Chili Octopus Carpaccio combined yuzu orange vinaigrette, grapefruit, chili flakes, and fresh herbs, creating a bright, zesty dish.
Other highlights included tender marinated abalone, crispy deep-fried fish, refreshing fruit skewers, and a tangy-sweet key lime pie. Each bite told a story of the chefs’ dedication to blending local ingredients with global techniques. And they were all paired with beautiful white or red wines.
The Dumpling Trail: A Culinary Adventure
Richmond’s Dumpling Trail features seventeen restaurants that showcase dumplings in an incredible variety of styles and flavors. From classic Chinese potstickers and xiao long bao to fusion-inspired creations, the trail is designed to entice every palate. The locations are all within close proximity, making it easy for dumpling enthusiasts (or beginners, like me) to hop from one spot to another—tasting, comparing, and discovering new favourites.
It’s no surprise that Richmond’s cultural vibrancy comes alive in its cuisine. Dumplings are a global phenomenon, existing in countless forms across different traditions. As Rebecca Mackenzie, President and CEO of the Culinary Tourism Alliance, says, “Food is a powerful lens through which high value travellers connect with a destination, and dumplings—found in countless culinary traditions worldwide—offer a perfect entry point.” This sentiment resonates especially during Lunar New Year in Richmond, when local restaurants showcase special menus and the city becomes a festival of cultural celebrations.
Why You Should Visit
Whether you’re a Richmond local or visiting for the first time, the Dumpling Trail is a fantastic way to explore the city’s diverse food scene. Little Karp, in particular, offers a glimpse into the passion and creativity that has made Richmond a dining destination. Between the hands-on workshop, the unforgettable flavours, and the welcoming ambiance, Little Karp provides more than just a meal—it offers an experience that celebrates culture, community, and, of course, delectable dumplings.
Next time you’re looking for a culinary adventure that brings people together, make sure to include Little Karp on your Dumpling Trail itinerary. Try a workshop, dive into their menu, and soak up the lively spirit of Richmond’s vibrant dining culture—one dumpling at a time.
