No more 胡同

TODAY'S WEATHER IS A BIT COLD, DAMP & MISERABLE, IT'S 17 C AND A LITTLE WET. It feels like a perfect hot dumpling day for a cold day, so we are going to have lunch at Hutong Dumpling on Market Lane in Chinatown. This is a favorite dumpling restaurant for Melbournians especially the Aussies. There are more Aussies than Asians; 3 to 1, as is the norm. 

By 11.45am we are seated, feeling cozy,  and looking forward to eating our 小笼汤包 (XLB)，鲜肉水饺，四川酸辣汤，and 四川担担面. We have always loved eating at Hutong Dumpling. Today, all's good except the 鲜肉水饺.

The 鲜肉水饺 dumpling skin is too thick for us unlike the ones we had at the same restaurant during our first few visits. It's easily about 5-6mm think whilst we rate the dumpling is great if the thickness is less than 2-3mm.

We are certainly well nourished and happy after the meal; even a sense of "satisfaction" prevails as a result of a full stomach. But no more 胡同 for this year, we conclude!

But the XLB is to die for. They are served hot, they are voluptuous and very tasty. Best eaten with ginger slices, vinegar and a bit of soy & chili to taste.