Taiwanese dumpling empire Bafang Dumpling is planning a massive expansion into Southern California, specifically in Los Angeles and Orange County.
The well-established brand with nearly 1,300 locations in Taiwan and China recently opened its first U.S. location in City of Industry a few weeks ago. Bafang Yunji North America CEO Stephanie Peng tells Eater LA she anticipates adding more locations in the coming years. The exact number of restaurants and their locations are unknown, but Peng says the company plans to allow franchise opportunities starting in 2023. Bafang’s North America headquarters were recently established in Irvine.
Bafang Dumpling was founded in Taipei in 1998 under Jiayu Lin. In 2008, the company arrived in Hong Kong before eventually making it to mainland Chain in 2019. Lin’s franchise program allowed the company to quickly expand throughout Asia and made it one of the most beloved brands in the area. Now, Peng gets ready to bring the well-known company to America with a “bit more of everything.” She says because U.S. customers love sauces, they will be making their noodles with an extra kick.
When these upcoming locations finally arrive in Southern California, customers will understand why it’s a popular food destination in Taiwan and China. The restaurant will offer crunchy potstickers, gold-shaped dumplings, various noodle dishes, side dishes, and other extras. Some of their popular flavors include Bafang signature and kimchi and pork.
“The founder always valued giving people the opportunity to be a small business owner,” Peng tells Eater LA. “He gave the opportunity to customers, employees, and people in the community that really love this product, this brand. We hope to bring that here and give people the opportunity to be business owners.”
