JoySauce to host inaugural Dumpling Bowl at San Gabriel’s Dumpling & Beer Fest
The competition will feature nine teams from southern California, competing for the Golden Dumpling Trophy
San Gabriel's Dumpling & Beer Fest kicks off this Friday, Oct. 2.
San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest
Words by JoySauce
JoySauce will host the first-ever Dumpling Bowl at the 11th annual Dumpling & Beer Fest in San Gabriel on Friday.
Held in the city’s historical Mission District, the Dumpling Bowl is a new culinary competition that celebrates one of the world's most beloved foods.
“One of the things that makes dumplings so special is that nearly every culture has its own version,” Matt De Miglio, executive producer of Dumpling & Beer Fest, said in a press release. “Whether it's xiao long bao, pierogi, momos, ravioli, empanadas, manti, or dozens of other variations from around the world, dumplings tell stories about family, tradition, and community. The Dumpling Bowl celebrates that incredible diversity while showcasing the creativity of Southern California's chefs.”
Nine teams will compete, creating original dumpling-inspired dishes representing cuisines from around the world for the chance to win the Golden Dumpling Trophy. In addition to a panel of judges who will select an overall winner, festival attendees will also have the chance to purchase the competing dishes and vote to crown the People’s Choice Champion.
The competitors for the inaugural Dumpling Bowl will feature teams from Lunasia Dim Sum House, StopBye Cafe, Coconut & Co., The Dumpling Dream, ZinDrew Wonton Shop, Dumplin’ by Aro, Bubblepuffs & Stuff, Go Fusion N Grill, and Mad Dumplings.
Judges for the competition will be the San Gabriel Mayor Eric L. Chan, and members of city council, JoySauce COO/CFO Brandon Ferguson, Yay’s Snacks CEO Marlin Ramsey Chan, and chef Josh Espinoza.
Dumpling & Beer Fest will run from 6-10 p.m. on Friday at 250 S. Mission Dr. in San Gabriel, and transform the Mission District into a vibrant celebration of food, culture, travel, and community. Now in its 11th year, the festival showcases the restaurants, breweries, local businesses, and diverse culinary traditions that have made the San Gabriel Valley one of the country's most celebrated food destinations.
Produced by MPD Events on behalf of the city of San Gabriel, the annual festival is expected to welcome more than 7,000 attendees for an evening of food, local craft beer, live entertainment, and family activities. Admission is free, but tickets are required for 21 and older guests who wish to enter the beer garden, and can be purchased ahead of the festival or onsite.
General beer garden tickets include unlimited tastings from participating breweries, while VIP guests will enjoy early access and additional exclusive festival experiences.
For tickets, festival updates, and announcements, visit dumplingandbeerfest.com or follow on Instagram.
Published on September 30, 2026
Words by JoySauce